As the chill of winter wraps around us, there’s nothing quite like the heartwarming aroma of a good meal simmering on the stove. Enter the One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie—a delightful twist on a classic favorite. It’s this one-pot wonder that takes your comfort food cravings to the next level, combining the fluffy, pillowy goodness of gnocchi with savory chicken in a creamy sauce. The best part? Not only is it incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for those busy evenings, but it’s also a flexible recipe, allowing you to adapt it to fit any dietary preference. Whether you opt for a vegetarian version or add a spicy buffalo flair, this dish promises to bring warmth and joy to your table. What variations will you try first?

Why is This Your New Favorite Recipe?

Comforting, Rich Flavors: The combination of creamy chicken and fluffy gnocchi creates a rich, savory taste that’s pure comfort on cold nights.

Flexible Cooking: With options for vegetarian, gluten-free, or even buffalo-style, everyone at your table can enjoy.

One-Pot Wonder: Save time on cleanup! This recipe requires just one pot, making it a quick and stress-free meal for busy evenings.

Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, this dish is sure to impress and fill hungry bellies with its hearty goodness.

Easy to Customize: Have leftover turkey? Toss it in! You can even transform this into a Cheesy One Pot or try a twist with Bruschetta Chicken Pasta for more fun!

One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie Ingredients

For the Base
Olive Oil or Butter – Adds richness; substitute with vegetable oil for a lighter option.
Onions – Provides aromatic base flavor; use shallots for a sweeter note.
Garlic – Enhances flavor; substitute with ½ teaspoon garlic powder if fresh is unavailable.
For the Filling
Carrots – Adds sweetness and texture; fresh or frozen are both acceptable.
Shredded Chicken – Main protein source; rotisserie chicken works best; leftovers or canned chicken are alternatives.
Chicken Broth – Creates the base for the creamy sauce; low-sodium is preferred to control saltiness.
Whole Milk – Adds creaminess; substitute with oat milk for a dairy-free option.
For the Flavor
Herbs (Thyme, Rosemary, or Italian seasoning) – Flavor enhancers; use fresh or dried based on availability.
Gnocchi – The star ingredient; shelf-stable versions are best; try sweet potato or cauliflower gnocchi for a twist.
Parmesan Cheese – Adds umami and creaminess; substitute with vegan parmesan for dairy-free.
Finishing Touches
Cream Cheese (optional) – Provides extra creaminess and tang; Greek yogurt or sour cream can be used as a substitute.
Frozen Peas – Add a pop of color and sweetness; feel free to toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking.

This One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie is not just a comforting dish; it’s a canvas for creativity in the kitchen!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie

Step 1: Sauté the Base
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic, cooking for 3-4 minutes until the onions become translucent. Then, toss in chopped carrots and continue sautéing for another 2-3 minutes until they are slightly tender, filling your kitchen with an aromatic base for the One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie.

Step 2: Add Chicken and Broth
Once the veggies are softened, stir in 2 cups of shredded chicken. Pour in 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth and 1 cup of whole milk. Sprinkle in thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer—watch for tiny bubbles forming on the surface, which indicates that it’s time to proceed.

Step 3: Incorporate the Gnocchi
Add 1 pound of gnocchi to the simmering pot, stirring gently to combine. Allow the mixture to cook undisturbed for about 6-8 minutes until the gnocchi puff up and float to the surface. Keep an eye on them, as their texture should become fluffy and tender, creating a delightful foundation for your One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie.

Step 4: Stir in Final Ingredients
Once the gnocchi are cooked, fold in 1 cup of frozen peas, ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and 4 ounces of cream cheese, if using. Stir until everything is well combined, and the cheeses have melted into the creamy sauce. This step adds a rich, comforting depth to your dish just when you need it most.

Step 5: Adjust Seasoning and Serve
Taste your One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if desired. Once you’re satisfied, ladle the warm mixture into bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor before serving and delighting your family.

One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize this dish to suit your taste buds!

Veggie Power: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms and kale for a hearty vegetarian option. The earthy flavors of the mushrooms blend beautifully with the creamy sauce, offering a delightful twist.
Buffalo Style: Stir in hot sauce to kick up the heat. This adds a zesty flavor that’s sure to impress anyone craving a spicy adventure.
Thanksgiving Remix: Use leftover turkey and diced sweet potatoes for a festive touch. Perfect for post-holiday meals, this variation keeps the spirit of Thanksgiving alive.
Gluten-Free: Opt for gluten-free gnocchi and thicken the sauce with cornstarch instead of flour. This way, everyone can enjoy the comforting flavors without the gluten.
Luxury Edition: Elevate your dish by adding lobster or crab meat and tarragon. This gives your One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie a gourmet feel and impresses dinner guests.
Mediterranean Twist: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes and spinach for a fresh, vibrant Mediterranean flavor. The tanginess of the tomatoes paired with the creamy base is irresistible.
Cheesy Delight: Increase the cheesiness by adding a mix of shredded cheddar and mozzarella. The gooey, melty texture takes comfort food to the next level.
Smoky Flair: Add smoked paprika or chipotle for a smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the creaminess of the dish. It’s like a cozy hug with a hint of adventurous spirit!

If you love comforting, cozy meals, pair your pie with a side of hearty garlic bread or a refreshing salad for a complete experience! And if you’re looking for more flavorful dishes, give the Oven Baked Chicken a try for a crispy delight or explore the rich flavors of Char Siu Chicken.

Make Ahead Options

These One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the base of the dish, including sautéing the onions, garlic, and carrots, up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate it in an airtight container. Additionally, you can shred and season the chicken beforehand and store it separately. When you’re ready to serve, just heat the base on the stove, add the chicken, broth, milk, and gnocchi, then simmer until everything is heated through. This approach ensures that you’ll enjoy just as delicious flavors with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Gently reheat on low, adding a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess.

Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a bit of liquid to prevent drying out. Enjoy your comforting One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie!

What to Serve with One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie

As you gather around the table to enjoy this creamy delight, consider these perfect accompaniments to round out your meal.

Garlic Bread: This crispy treat complements the rich flavors beautifully, perfect for sopping up the creamy sauce.
Simple Side Salad: A fresh mix of greens with a light vinaigrette adds a crunchy contrast, balancing the dish’s creaminess.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like Brussels sprouts or carrots bring warmth and depth, enhancing the comforting experience.
Cheddar Biscuits: Fluffy and cheesy, these biscuits provide a delightful texture that pairs wonderfully with the gnocchi.
Steamed Broccoli: Bright green and healthy, broccoli adds a fresh, vibrant aspect to the meal alongside creamy gnocchi.
Apple Crisp: For dessert, a warm apple crisp topped with vanilla ice cream delivers a sweet ending to the comforting meal.
Chardonnay: This light, fruity wine will elevate your dining experience, complementing the savory richness of the dish.
Lemonade: A refreshing glass of homemade lemonade can cleanse the palate, offering a bright contrast to the creamy flavors.

Expert Tips for One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie

Perfect Sauté: Aim for a golden color when sautéing the onions for deeper flavor; skipping this will result in a flat taste.
Gentle Simmer: Avoid boiling the milk when adding it; instead, keep it at a gentle simmer for a creamy texture in your One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie.
Thickening Solutions: If your sauce turns out too thin, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with equal parts water to create a slurry; add it to the pot to thicken.
Fresh Herbs: For the best flavor, use fresh thyme or rosemary; dried herbs work in a pinch but won’t deliver the same punch.
Leftover Magic: Utilize leftover turkey or chicken from holiday meals to create a delicious variation; it’s a delightful twist on this classic recipe!

One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie Recipe FAQs

What type of gnocchi should I use for the best results?
Absolutely! For the One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie, shelf-stable gnocchi works best. You could also experiment with sweet potato or cauliflower gnocchi for a delightful twist that adds unique flavor and texture.

How long can I store leftover One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing it up to keep it fresh and delicious!

Can I freeze One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie? If so, how?
Yes, you can! To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It’s best to use it within 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stovetop, adding a little broth or milk to restore its creamy texture.

What should I do if my sauce is too thin?
No worries! If you find your sauce is too thin, you can easily thicken it with a cornstarch slurry. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with an equal amount of water to create a smooth paste. Stir this mixture into the pot, simmer for a few more minutes, and watch as it thickens beautifully!

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Definitely! If you’re catering to dietary preferences, you can easily substitute ingredients for a gluten-free or dairy-free version. Use gluten-free gnocchi and oat milk instead of whole milk. Plus, for a vegetarian version, just swap out the chicken for sautéed mushrooms and seasonal vegetables.

How do I tell if my ingredients, like the gnocchi, are fresh?
Great question! When selecting gnocchi, look for packages without any tears or dark spots. For the fresh variety, they should feel tender and homogeneous in texture, with no visible lumps or signs of freezer burn if frozen.