This Easy One-Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie is cozy comfort food at its best! Packed with tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and tasty veggies, it comes together in just one pot—no fuss!
I love how quick this dish is to whip up, perfect for busy nights. Plus, who can resist a warm, creamy chicken pot pie? It’s like a hug in a bowl. 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I like using boneless thighs for their extra juiciness, but chicken breasts work well too! If you want a vegetarian version, consider using chickpeas or your favorite plant-based protein.
Gnocchi: You can find potato gnocchi in the pasta section of most grocery stores. If you’re gluten-free, look for gluten-free gnocchi options or use rice or quinoa instead.
Mixed Vegetables: Frozen mixed veggies make this dish quick and easy—just toss them in! Fresh veggies work too; think about including green beans, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor.
Heavy Cream: If you’re looking to cut down on calories, half-and-half or milk can be used. For a dairy-free option, coconut milk or a plant-based cream can also be great alternatives.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Getting your chicken just right is important for a dish like this. Here’s what to do:
- Cut the chicken into even-sized pieces to ensure they cook uniformly.
- Make sure your pot is hot before adding the chicken—this helps it brown nicely.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. If needed, cook in batches to get good color and flavor.
After cooking, remember to set the chicken aside before adding the onions. This keeps the chicken tender and juicy for later!
Easy One-Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken and Vegetables:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as peas, carrots, and corn)
For The Sauce:
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
For The Gnocchi:
- 1 package (about 16 oz) potato gnocchi
Seasonings and Extras:
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Optional garnish: fresh parsley or thyme sprigs
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook, for a total of about 25 minutes. It’s a quick and easy meal perfect for weeknight dinners!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the diced chicken pieces. Cook until they’re browned and cooked through, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same pot, add butter. Then, toss in the diced onion and sauté it until it becomes translucent, which takes around 3 to 4 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until you can smell that wonderful garlic aroma.
3. Add Vegetables:
Stir in the mixed vegetables and let them cook for about 2-3 minutes until they’re slightly tender. This quick cooking keeps the veggies vibrant and delicious!
4. Make the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring everything well to combine. Then, toss in the dried thyme, parsley, and add some salt and pepper to your liking.
5. Combine and Simmer:
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Now it’s time to add back the gnocchi and cooked chicken. Stir it all together gently to make sure everything is mixed well.
6. Cook Until Ready:
Let it cook for another 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want to cook until the gnocchi are tender and the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Finishing Touches:
If you’re using Parmesan cheese, stir it in during the last minute of cooking, so it melts smoothly into the dish. Then, make sure to taste it and adjust any seasonings if needed!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
To serve, garnish your delicious one-pot gnocchi chicken pot pie with fresh parsley or thyme if you like. Enjoy this comforting dish warm and relish all those cozy flavors!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Vegetables?
Absolutely! Frozen mixed vegetables are a great time-saver and work perfectly in this recipe. Just toss them in directly without thawing, and they’ll cook up well in the pot!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free alternative, try coconut milk or a plant-based cream substitute, which will still yield a creamy texture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the chicken and vegetable mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just add the gnocchi and cream when you’re ready to cook it. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but storing it for a day or two works well too!
