Cooking a comforting dish that’s healthy and satisfying doesn’t get easier than this one pot gnocchi chicken pot pie. With minimal cleanup and a rich, creamy flavor, this recipe brings a delightful twist to a classic favorite, making it a perfect meal for busy weekdays or cozy family dinners. You’ll love how quickly it comes together while still providing all the heartiness you crave.
Why We Love This One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie
This one pot gnocchi chicken pot pie merges the comfort of a traditional chicken pot pie with the light, fluffy texture of gnocchi. It’s an easy, no-fuss recipe that provides a delicious layered flavor in every bite. The gnocchi absorbs the savory broth, creating a truly satisfying dish that doesn’t skimp on comfort. You circumvent the need for pie crust, opting for the delicious gnocchi instead, which cooks perfectly in just one pot. This dish is packed with vegetables, protein, and creamy goodness, making it well-rounded and filling. Furthermore, you save time on both cooking and cleaning up, as everything comes together in just one pot.
Ingredients for One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie
- 1 pound gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the diced carrots and celery and cook for another 5 minutes until they start to soften.
- Add the chicken pieces to the pot. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary. Cook until the chicken is browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Stir in the heavy cream and bring back to a gentle simmer.
- Add the gnocchi and frozen peas. Cook for another 4-5 minutes, or until the gnocchi floats to the top and is cooked through.
- Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
How to Serve One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie
When it comes to serving this delicious one pot gnocchi chicken pot pie, presentation plays a key role. Use a large serving spoon to ladle generous portions into bowls. You can serve this dish on its own, as it is hearty enough to stand alone, but for added flair, consider accompanying it with a crisp green salad or warm crusty bread. A fresh side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the pot pie while adding a pop of color to your table. Alternatively, if you want to provide a heartier contrast, garlic bread or breadsticks make a perfect side.
For an extra touch, garnish each bowl or plate with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Not only does it enhance the visual appeal, but it also adds freshness to the dish. Encourage your guests to dig in right away while it’s still warm to fully enjoy the creamy, comforting flavors. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or casual entertaining, allowing everyone to gather around and enjoy a delightful meal together.
Expert Tips for One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie
To ensure your one pot gnocchi chicken pot pie turns out perfect every time, consider these expert tips. First, when selecting your chicken, opt for thighs for a more tender bite, but breasts work fine too. Make sure you cook them until they’re just done to prevent dryness. Also, if you have time, sauté the vegetables longer before adding the broth; this enhances their flavors significantly.
If you prefer a thicker base, let the mixture simmer longer after adding the heavy cream; it will naturally thicken as it reduces. You can also mix in some cornstarch dissolved in water to help achieve your desired consistency. For a flavor boost, a squeeze of lemon or a dash of hot sauce before serving can brighten the dish.
On the ingredient front, consider adding different vegetables based on what you have on hand or prefer. Additionally, swapping in vegetable broth for the chicken broth can make this dish vegetarian-friendly, just ensure to adjust the cooking time for the ingredients accordingly. Lastly, experiment with adding spices like paprika or a sprinkle of cayenne for some heat.
How to Store One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie
Storing your one pot gnocchi chicken pot pie is simple and keeps it fresh for later enjoyment. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This will help preserve its creamy texture and flavors. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to three days.
When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce, as gnocchi tends to absorb liquid over time. Reheat in a microwave-safe dish or on the stovetop over low heat until warmed throughout. If you know you won’t finish all of it within a few days, you can also freeze it for longer storage. In this case, it’s best to separate it into individual portions. Store these in freezer-safe containers or bags to save space. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned.
Variations of One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie
Want to switch things up with your one pot gnocchi chicken pot pie? There are countless variations to explore. For a protein switch, try using diced turkey or shredded rotisserie chicken for an even quicker meal. If you want a meaty twist, consider adding some cooked chicken sausage, which adds flavor without much effort.
Vegetable-wise, feel free to substitute with broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers. For more crunch, try adding green beans right at the end, just before serving. You can also experiment with using different herbs; fresh basil or dill can bring a unique twist to the flavor profile.
For a luxurious touch, try adding grated parmesan cheese to the mixture right before serving, so it melts into the sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can swap out the heavy cream for a plant-based alternative or a lower-calorie cream substitute. Lastly, consider topping the dish with breadcrumbs before baking it in the oven for a crunchy topping—though this will make it a two-pot recipe, it’s a fun twist if you have the time.
FAQ about One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie
What is one pot gnocchi chicken pot pie?
One pot gnocchi chicken pot pie is a creamy and comforting dish made with tender gnocchi, chicken, and assorted vegetables, all cooked together in a single pot.
Can I make one pot gnocchi chicken pot pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator once it cools down and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
How do I prevent gnocchi from becoming mushy in one pot gnocchi chicken pot pie?
To prevent mushiness, avoid overcooking the gnocchi. It only takes a few minutes to cook; as soon as they float to the top, they’re done.
Can I use frozen gnocchi in one pot gnocchi chicken pot pie?
Yes, frozen gnocchi work perfectly well in this recipe. Just add them to the pot without thawing and cook as directed.
What types of vegetables work best in one pot gnocchi chicken pot pie?
You can use a variety of vegetables such as carrots, peas, celery, and onions. Feel free to experiment with broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers to add more color and nutrition.