Name: One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie – Creamy, Comforting & Easy Weeknight Dinner
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil or butter; 1 small onion, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 2 carrots, chopped; 1 cup mushrooms, sliced; 1 tsp poultry seasoning; ½ tsp dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp flour (or gluten-free alternative); 2 cups chicken broth; 2 cups cooked shredded chicken; 1 (16 oz) package gnocchi (shelf-stable or refrigerated); ½ cup milk or cream (or dairy-free alternative); Optional: ¼ cup white wine; Optional: Fresh herbs or parmesan for garnish

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Introduction to One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie

One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie is a modern comfort food masterpiece that blends the creamy, savory essence of classic chicken pot pie with the soft, pillowy bite of gnocchi. This dish reimagines tradition by swapping out the flaky crust for tender potato dumplings, creating a hearty, satisfying meal that’s both indulgent and easy to prepare. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug—perfect for chilly evenings, busy weeknights, or when you need to feed a hungry crowd without the fuss. The one-pot method means fewer dishes and faster cleanup, while the rich, velvety sauce and wholesome ingredients deliver all the nostalgic flavors you crave. Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting friends, or just treating yourself, this dish offers a delicious twist on a beloved classic that’s sure to become a staple in your comfort food rotation.

The Inspiration Behind the Recipe

This recipe was born from the cozy collision of two beloved dishes: chicken pot pie and chicken & dumplings. Both are known for their creamy sauces, tender chicken, and comforting textures—but each has its own signature twist. By introducing gnocchi into the mix, this dish captures the best of both worlds. Gnocchi acts as a brilliant substitute for pie crust or biscuits, offering a soft, chewy texture that soaks up the savory sauce beautifully. It’s a clever shortcut that doesn’t compromise on flavor or satisfaction. Plus, using gnocchi eliminates the need for rolling dough or baking biscuits, making the recipe more accessible for everyday cooking. The one-pot approach streamlines the process even further, reducing prep time and cleanup. It’s a practical, flavorful solution for anyone craving comfort food without the hassle—proof that innovation in the kitchen can be just as heartwarming as tradition.

Choosing the Right Gnocchi and Chicken

When selecting gnocchi for this dish, you’ll find two main options: shelf-stable and refrigerated. Shelf-stable gnocchi is convenient and has a long pantry life, making it ideal for last-minute meals. Refrigerated gnocchi tends to have a softer texture and cooks slightly faster, offering a more delicate bite. Both work well, but if you’re aiming for a more tender finish, refrigerated is the way to go.

For dietary needs, look for gluten-free gnocchi made with rice or cauliflower flour, and opt for dairy-free versions if needed—many brands now offer these alternatives.

As for the chicken, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a time-saving hero. It’s flavorful, juicy, and ready to shred. Fresh chicken breasts or thighs are great too, especially if you prefer to season and cook your own. Thighs offer more richness, while breasts are leaner.

Pro tip: Shred your chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge. This small prep step makes assembly lightning-fast and ensures even distribution throughout the dish.

Building the Flavor Base

The soul of this dish lies in its aromatic foundation. Start by sautéing chopped onion, garlic, celery, carrots, and mushrooms in a bit of oil or butter. These vegetables not only add depth and texture but also release savory notes that build the backbone of the sauce. Once softened, season generously with poultry spice, thyme, salt, and pepper—these herbs evoke the classic pot pie flavor profile.

Next comes the roux, a simple yet essential step. Melt butter (or a dairy-free alternative like olive oil or vegan margarine) and whisk in flour to create a thick paste. This mixture will help thicken the sauce and give it that luscious, creamy consistency. Slowly add broth while stirring to avoid lumps.

Flavor tip: A splash of white wine or extra broth at this stage adds complexity and brightness, elevating the dish from simple to sublime. Let the mixture simmer until it’s velvety and aromatic—this is your canvas for the gnocchi and chicken to shine.

Cooking Method and One-Pot Assembly

Start by heating oil or butter in a large, oven-safe pot or Dutch oven. Sauté your aromatics—onion, garlic, celery, carrots, and mushrooms—until softened and fragrant. Stir in your seasonings: poultry spice, thyme, salt, and pepper. Once the vegetables are tender, sprinkle in flour and stir to coat. This forms the roux, which thickens the sauce. Gradually pour in chicken broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Let the mixture simmer until it thickens into a creamy base.

Add your shredded chicken and stir to combine. Then, gently fold in the gnocchi. These pillowy dumplings will cook directly in the sauce, absorbing flavor and releasing starch to further thicken the mixture. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, or until the gnocchi are tender and cooked through.

To finish, stir in cream or milk (or dairy-free alternatives like oat or almond milk) for a velvety texture. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

If you’re using an oven-safe pot and want a golden top, sprinkle a bit of shredded cheese or breadcrumbs and broil for 2–3 minutes until bubbly and browned.

Time-saver tip: Prep your veggies and shred your chicken ahead of time. With everything ready to go, this dish comes together in just 30 minutes—perfect for weeknight dinners or impromptu gatherings.