One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
A comforting and hearty dish that combines tender gnocchi with savory chicken and vegetables, all cooked in one pot for easy cleanup.
This One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie is the perfect weeknight dinner that brings the comfort of a classic pot pie without all the fuss. The gnocchi absorbs all the delicious flavors, making each bite a delight.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Creamy and rich flavor that warms your soul
- One pot means less cleanup and more time to enjoy
- Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
The Comfort of One-Pot Meals
One-pot meals have become a favorite for many home cooks, and for good reason. They simplify the cooking process by bringing together all ingredients in a single vessel, allowing for maximum flavor development while minimizing cleanup. This One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie encapsulates that essence perfectly, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
The joy of cooking in one pot goes beyond convenience. It encourages the melding of flavors as the ingredients simmer together, creating a rich and hearty dish that warms the soul. The creamy texture of the sauce, combined with tender gnocchi and succulent chicken, ensures that every bite is filled with comforting goodness.
The Versatility of Gnocchi
Gnocchi is a delightful alternative to traditional pasta, offering a unique texture and flavor profile that pairs beautifully with a variety of sauces and ingredients. In this recipe, gnocchi serves as the perfect base to soak up the creamy chicken broth, enhancing the overall dish with its pillowy softness. Whether homemade or store-bought, gnocchi is a versatile ingredient that can elevate your meals.
One of the best aspects of gnocchi is its ability to absorb flavors. As it cooks in the savory broth, it becomes infused with the richness of the chicken and vegetables, creating a satisfying experience with every forkful. You can even customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs, making it adaptable to different tastes and dietary preferences.
A Family-Friendly Recipe
This One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie is not only delicious but also family-friendly. The combination of chicken and vegetables makes it a nutritious option that even picky eaters will enjoy. The creamy texture and comforting flavors appeal to both kids and adults, making it a go-to meal for family gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Additionally, this recipe encourages family bonding in the kitchen. Involving kids in the cooking process can make them more excited about mealtime. Let them help with stirring the pot or adding the ingredients, creating a fun atmosphere that fosters a love for cooking and good food.
Ingredients
For the Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie
- 1 lb gnocchi
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Combine Ingredients
Add the shredded chicken, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine, then pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream.
Add Gnocchi
Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the gnocchi and peas. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for an additional 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Serve
Once the gnocchi is cooked and the sauce has thickened, remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips for Perfecting Your Gnocchi
When preparing gnocchi, one key tip is to avoid overcooking. Fresh gnocchi cooks quickly, typically in just a few minutes. Keep an eye on it; once it floats to the surface, it's ready to be incorporated into your dish. This ensures that your gnocchi remains tender and maintains its delightful texture.
If you prefer to use frozen gnocchi, there's no need to thaw it beforehand. Simply add it directly to the pot with your other ingredients. This saves time and helps maintain the dish's integrity, allowing you to enjoy a quick and satisfying meal.
Storing Leftovers
Should you have any leftovers, storing them properly is essential to maintain their taste and texture. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore its creamy consistency.
Freezing is also an option if you want to prepare this meal in advance. However, keep in mind that the texture of the gnocchi may change slightly upon thawing. For best results, consider freezing the sauce separately from the gnocchi and combining them when ready to serve.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie, consider serving it with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad. The bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce, while the salad adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty dish. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top can introduce an extra layer of flavor, making each serving even more delightful.
For a more gourmet touch, you can also add a drizzle of truffle oil or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. These simple additions can transform your dish into a restaurant-quality meal that impresses family and friends alike.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen gnocchi?
Yes, frozen gnocchi can be used directly in the recipe without thawing.
→ How can I make this dish healthier?
You can substitute heavy cream with a lighter option like half-and-half or coconut milk.
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling in advance and add the gnocchi right before cooking.
→ What can I serve with this dish?
A simple side salad or crusty bread pairs perfectly with this pot pie.
One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie
A comforting and hearty dish that combines tender gnocchi with savory chicken and vegetables, all cooked in one pot for easy cleanup.
Created by: Imogen Price
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie
- 1 lb gnocchi
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Add the shredded chicken, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine, then pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the gnocchi and peas. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for an additional 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Once the gnocchi is cooked and the sauce has thickened, remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 20g