Quick & Creamy One-Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie is the ultimate comfort food shortcut that brings all the cozy flavors of a classic chicken pot pie into one simple, creamy stove-top meal. With tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a rich, savory sauce, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something warm, filling, and family-friendly without turning on the oven.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This One-Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie
This recipe takes everything people love about chicken pot pie and makes it faster, easier, and lighter on cleanup.
First, it is truly a one pot meal. Everything cooks in a single large pot or deep skillet, which means fewer dishes and less time cleaning up after dinner. That alone makes it a weeknight win.
Second, gnocchi replaces the traditional pie crust. Instead of rolling dough or baking pastry, the gnocchi cooks directly in the creamy sauce, soaking up flavor while keeping the dish hearty and satisfying.
Third, the flavors are classic and comforting. You still get chicken, vegetables, herbs, and a creamy base that tastes like pure comfort food, but with a modern twist that feels fresh and practical.
Finally, this One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie is easy to customize. You can swap vegetables, adjust the seasoning, or make it lighter or dairy free without losing the cozy vibe that makes pot pie so beloved.
Ingredients for One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion or 1 large shallot, finely diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 1 half teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 3 tablespoons all purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 12 oz shelf stable potato gnocchi
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 3 fourths cup frozen peas
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
If you do not have cooked chicken on hand, rotisserie chicken works beautifully and saves time. You can also use leftover roasted or poached chicken.
For a lighter option, use low fat milk or unsweetened plain almond milk. The sauce will still be creamy, just slightly thinner.
If you need a dairy free version, replace butter with olive oil or plant based butter and use unsweetened oat or almond milk.
For gluten free needs, choose gluten free gnocchi and substitute the flour with a gluten free all purpose blend that is designed for sauces.
This recipe contains no alcohol or pork. If you prefer a deeper savory flavor, you can add a splash of lemon juice or mild apple cider vinegar at the end to brighten the sauce naturally.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add the butter and olive oil. Once melted and warm, add the onion, carrots, celery, and mushrooms.
Cook for about 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften and the mushrooms release their moisture.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Seasonings
Stir in the minced garlic, poultry seasoning, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 3: Make the Roux
Sprinkle the flour evenly over the vegetables. Stir continuously for 1 to 2 minutes so the flour coats everything and cooks slightly. This step helps thicken the sauce later and removes any raw flour taste.
Step 4: Build the Creamy Sauce
Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring to prevent lumps. Once smooth, add the milk and stir well.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. You should see the sauce start to thicken slightly after a few minutes.
Step 5: Cook the Gnocchi
Add the gnocchi directly to the pot. Stir gently so the gnocchi is fully submerged in the sauce.
Simmer for 3 to 5 minutes, or according to package directions, until the gnocchi is tender and floats to the surface. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 6: Add Chicken and Peas
Stir in the cooked chicken and frozen peas. Let everything simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes, just until the chicken is heated through and the peas are tender.
Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
Step 7: Serve
Remove from heat and let the dish rest for a minute or two. The sauce will thicken slightly as it cools. Serve hot and enjoy.
Pro Tips for Success
- Dice the vegetables evenly so they cook at the same rate and give the dish a consistent texture.
- Stir gently after adding gnocchi to avoid breaking them apart.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it.
- If it feels too thin, let it simmer uncovered for an extra minute or two.
- Season gradually and taste at the end to avoid over salting.
Flavor Variations
- Herb Boost: Add fresh chopped parsley or thyme at the end for a brighter finish.
- Extra Veggie: Stir in corn, green beans, or spinach for added color and nutrition.
- Cheesy Twist: Add a half cup of shredded cheddar or Parmesan for a richer sauce.
- Turkey Version: Swap chicken for cooked turkey, especially great for leftovers.
- Garlic Lover: Add one extra clove of garlic for a bolder flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
This One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie is filling enough to serve on its own, but it pairs nicely with a few simple sides.
A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette helps balance the creaminess. Steamed broccoli or roasted Brussels sprouts also work well.
For bread lovers, serve with warm dinner rolls or crusty bread to scoop up the extra sauce.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce as needed.
Freezing is not ideal because gnocchi can become soft after thawing, but it can be done if needed. Freeze in a freezer safe container for up to 1 month and reheat slowly for best texture.
Quick & Creamy One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Quick & Creamy One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie is a cozy comfort food shortcut made on the stovetop with tender chicken, soft gnocchi, vegetables, and a rich savory sauce, perfect for busy weeknights with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion or 1 large shallot, finely diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 3 tablespoons all purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 12 oz shelf stable potato gnocchi
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 0.75 cup frozen peas
Instructions
- Heat butter and olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat.
- Add onion, carrots, celery, and mushrooms and cook until softened.
- Stir in garlic, poultry seasoning, thyme, salt, and black pepper until fragrant.
- Sprinkle flour over vegetables and cook briefly while stirring.
- Slowly add chicken broth, stirring until smooth.
- Add milk and bring to a gentle simmer until slightly thickened.
- Add gnocchi and simmer until tender, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in cooked chicken and frozen peas.
- Simmer until chicken is heated through and peas are tender.
- Taste, adjust seasoning, and remove from heat.
Notes
Stir gently after adding gnocchi to prevent breaking. Add a splash of broth or milk if sauce becomes too thick.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One Pot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~420 |
| Protein | ~28 g |
| Carbohydrates | ~38 g |
| Fat | ~18 g |
| Fiber | ~4 g |
| Sodium | ~680 mg |
Values are estimates and will vary based on specific ingredients used.
FAQ About One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie
Can I use frozen gnocchi?
Yes, frozen gnocchi works well. Add it directly to the pot without thawing and cook according to package directions, allowing a minute or two extra if needed.
What type of chicken is best?
Cooked chicken breast or thigh both work. Thigh meat gives a richer flavor, while breast meat keeps it lighter.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare it a few hours ahead and reheat gently. For best texture, cook the gnocchi just until tender and avoid over simmering when reheating.
Is this recipe kid friendly?
Yes, the flavors are mild, creamy, and comforting, making it a great family meal. You can reduce herbs slightly if your kids prefer simpler flavors.
How do I thicken the sauce more?
Let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes, or stir in a small slurry of flour and milk if needed.
Final Thoughts
Quick & Creamy One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie is the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. It delivers all the nostalgic flavors of chicken pot pie without the fuss of pastry or baking. Whether you are feeding a family, using up leftover chicken, or just craving something warm and satisfying, this recipe is one you will come back to again and again.