One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie is a cozy, comforting dish that combines tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and creamy veggies all cooked together in a single pot. It’s like a pot pie, but without the crust—perfect for when you want all the warmth and satisfying flavors without the fuss.
I love how easy it is to throw everything into one pot and have a meal ready in no time. The gnocchi soaks up all the creamy sauce, making every bite soft and delicious. Plus, using chicken and vegetables gives it a nice balance of protein and fresh flavors, so it feels hearty but not heavy.
My favorite way to serve this is with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or some grated cheese on top. It’s the kind of dinner that feels like a warm hug after a long day, and I always find myself coming back to it when I want something simple but really tasty. Give it a try—you might find a new favorite weeknight meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs both work well. Thighs are juicier and more forgiving if slightly overcooked, while breasts cook faster and are leaner.
Gnocchi: Store-bought gnocchi save time and taste great. For a gluten-free option, look for gnocchi made with sweet potato or cauliflower.
Vegetables: Carrots and peas add sweetness and color. You can swap peas for green beans or corn if preferred, or add mushrooms for an earthier flavor.
Thyme: Fresh thyme adds brightness, but dried thyme works well too. If you don’t have thyme, rosemary or sage would also complement this dish nicely.
Milk or Cream: Whole milk or cream contributes to the creamy texture. For a lighter version, use low-fat milk or dairy-free alternatives like oat or almond milk (choose unsweetened).
How Do You Get the Sauce Perfectly Creamy Without Lumps?
Making a smooth, creamy sauce is all about the right steps when adding flour and liquids:
- After cooking the chicken and veggies, sprinkle the flour evenly over everything and stir well. Cook it for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- When adding the chicken broth, pour it slowly and stir constantly. This helps prevent lumps from forming.
- Add the milk or cream gradually while stirring, letting the sauce thicken slowly over medium heat.
- If you see lumps, gently whisk or mash them with a wooden spoon until smooth.
- Keep the heat moderate to avoid boiling, which can break the sauce texture.
Following these steps makes the sauce rich and silky, which really ties the dish together.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot or Dutch oven – perfect for cooking everything in one place without extra dishes.
- Spoon or spatula – helps you stir the sauce and prevent sticking.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for adding precise amounts of broth, milk, and flour.
- Chef’s knife and cutting board – makes chopping veggies and chicken quick and safe.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for cooked turkey or cooked sausage for a different protein twist.
- Add mushrooms or chopped kale for extra earthiness and nutrition.
- Stir in shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese at the end for a cheesier sauce.
- Use a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to add a subtle smoky or spicy kick.
One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 tsp dried thyme or 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
- 2 cups (480ml) chicken broth
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk or heavy cream
- 1 lb (450g) gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or thyme sprigs, for garnish (optional)
- Paprika or smoked paprika, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, so you’ll have a satisfying meal ready in around 30 minutes. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but cozy enough to enjoy anytime.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics and Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until no longer pink on the outside, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add Vegetables and Herbs:
Stir in the sliced carrots and thyme leaves. Cook everything together for 2 more minutes so the flavors blend.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Sprinkle the flour evenly over the chicken and veggies, and stir to coat well. Cook for 1-2 minutes to get rid of the raw flour taste. Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid clumps. Add the milk or cream, stirring until the sauce thickens into a creamy gravy, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
4. Add Gnocchi and Peas:
Gently mix in the gnocchi and frozen peas. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the gnocchi are tender and cooked through.
5. Finish and Serve:
Taste your pot pie and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Remove from the heat and garnish with fresh parsley or thyme sprigs and a pinch of paprika if you like a little added color or smoky flavor. Serve it warm for a comforting, creamy dish everyone will love.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw frozen chicken completely before cooking. The best way is to thaw it overnight in the fridge or place it in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for faster thawing. Pat dry before adding to the pot to avoid excess moisture.
Can I Substitute the Gnocchi with Another Pasta?
Absolutely! Small pasta shapes like gnocchi’s potato cousins—like tortellini, penne, or even macaroni—work well. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time so the pasta doesn’t overcook or get mushy.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Use dairy-free milk alternatives such as almond, oat, or coconut milk, and opt for a plant-based butter or oil to sauté ingredients. Just keep in mind the sauce might be slightly thinner, so you can add a little extra flour to thicken if needed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally. If the sauce is too thick after refrigerating, stir in a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up while reheating.
