One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie (The Ultimate Cozy Weeknight Comfort)

Introduction

If there is one dish that truly defines comfort food, it’s chicken pot pie. Creamy sauce, tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and warm, savory flavors wrapped together into a meal that feels like a hug in a bowl. Now imagine taking everything you love about classic chicken pot pie and combining it with soft, pillowy gnocchi—no crust, no baking dish, and no extra cleanup. That’s exactly what this One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie delivers.

This recipe is inspired by the nostalgia of traditional pot pie and the ease of modern one-pot meals. It’s rich and creamy without being heavy, cozy without being complicated, and fast enough for busy weeknights while still feeling special. The gnocchi act like little dumplings, soaking up the savory sauce and creating a texture similar to chicken and dumplings—but with a fraction of the effort.

Best of all, everything cooks in one pot in under 30 minutes. That means fewer dishes, less stress, and more time to enjoy a warm, satisfying meal with your family. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters, craving something comforting after a long day, or simply looking for a new way to use gnocchi, this One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie deserves a spot in your regular dinner rotation.

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Why You’ll Love This One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie

There are plenty of chicken dinners out there, but this one stands out for all the right reasons.

First, it’s a true one-pot meal. From sautéing the vegetables to simmering the gnocchi and finishing the sauce, everything happens in a single Dutch oven or large pot. Cleanup is minimal, which is always a win on busy nights.

Second, it delivers all the flavors of classic chicken pot pie—creamy sauce, poultry seasoning, thyme, tender chicken, and vegetables—without the extra steps of making or baking a crust. You get the comfort without the fuss.

Third, gnocchi make this dish extra special. Unlike pasta or rice, gnocchi have a soft, pillowy texture that feels indulgent and hearty. They cook quickly and absorb the sauce beautifully, making every bite rich and satisfying.

Finally, this recipe is incredibly flexible. It works with rotisserie chicken, leftover chicken, or freshly cooked chicken breast. You can easily make it dairy-free, gluten-free, or loaded with extra vegetables depending on your needs.

If you love cozy meals, quick dinners, and recipes that feel like comfort food without hours in the kitchen, you’re going to fall in love with this One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie.

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Ingredients + Tips

This recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create big flavor. Here’s a closer look at each component and how to make the most of it.

Butter or Vegan Butter

Butter forms the base of the sauce and adds richness. Vegan butter works just as well if you’re keeping the dish dairy-free. Make sure to use a variety that melts smoothly.

Carrots

Carrots add sweetness and classic pot pie flavor. Slice them thin so they cook evenly and become tender without staying crunchy.

Mushrooms

Mushrooms add depth and umami to the sauce. They also help make the dish feel hearty without needing extra meat. Slice them evenly so they release their moisture properly while sautéing.

Celery

Celery brings that unmistakable chicken pot pie aroma and flavor. Thin slices work best so they soften completely in the sauce.

Shallot or Onion

A shallot adds mild sweetness, but a small onion works just as well. Chop finely so it blends seamlessly into the sauce.

Garlic

Fresh garlic is key here. Mince or press it finely so it distributes evenly throughout the dish.

Poultry Seasoning & Thyme

These herbs give the dish its classic pot pie taste. Poultry seasoning typically includes sage, rosemary, and thyme, making it a one-step flavor booster.

Flour (Gluten-Free or Regular)

Flour thickens the sauce. Gluten-free flour blends work well, but all-purpose flour is fine if gluten isn’t a concern.

Chicken Broth

Use a good-quality broth for the best flavor. Low-sodium is ideal so you can control the salt level.

Milk

Milk adds creaminess without making the dish overly heavy. Whole milk gives the richest texture, but unsweetened almond milk works well for a dairy-free version.

Gnocchi

Shelf-stable or refrigerated gnocchi both work. Gluten-free gnocchi are a great option if needed. Be mindful of package size—some brands come in 16 oz instead of 12 oz.

Cooked Chicken

Shredded chicken breast is perfect here. Rotisserie chicken saves time and adds great flavor.

Frozen Peas

Peas add color and sweetness. No need to thaw them—they heat quickly in the sauce.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the Vegetables

Heat a Dutch oven or large pot over medium-high heat. Melt the butter, then add the carrots, mushrooms, celery, and shallot or onion. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until the mushrooms release their liquid and it evaporates. Season lightly with seasoned salt and black pepper.

Continue cooking for another 6–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and lightly golden.

2. Add Aromatics

Add the garlic, poultry seasoning, and dried thyme. Stir constantly for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. This step helps bloom the herbs and deepen their flavor.

3. Build the Roux

Sprinkle the flour evenly over the vegetables. Stir well to coat everything and cook for about 1 minute. This removes the raw flour taste and ensures a smooth sauce.

4. Create the Sauce

Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Add the milk and increase the heat slightly. Stir until the mixture becomes smooth and begins to thicken.

5. Simmer the Gnocchi

Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Add the gnocchi and stir well. Reduce heat to medium and simmer for 5–6 minutes, stirring frequently, until the gnocchi are tender and the sauce has thickened.

6. Finish the Dish

Stir in the shredded chicken and frozen peas. Let everything simmer for another 2–3 minutes until heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

7. Serve

Ladle into bowls and serve hot. The sauce will continue to thicken slightly as it cools, making it even more comforting.

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Tips for Success

• Stir often once the gnocchi are added. Gnocchi can stick to the bottom if left unattended.

• Adjust liquid as needed. If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of broth or milk.

• Season gradually. Broth and poultry seasoning vary in saltiness, so taste as you go.

• Use pre-cooked chicken. This keeps the recipe quick and ensures tender results.

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Variations

One of the best things about this One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie is how easy it is to customize.

Extra Creamy

Add ¼–½ cup heavy cream at the end for an ultra-rich sauce.

Dairy-Free

Use vegan butter and unsweetened almond or oat milk. The result is still creamy and comforting.

Vegetarian

Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth. Add extra mushrooms or white beans for protein.

Loaded with Veggies

Add green beans, corn, or diced potatoes along with the carrots.

Herby Upgrade

Finish with fresh parsley, thyme, or chives for brightness.

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Storage & Reheating

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce. Microwave reheating works too, but stir halfway through for even heating.

Note: Gnocchi will continue to absorb sauce over time, so leftovers may be thicker.

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Serving Suggestions

This dish is hearty enough to stand on its own, but it pairs beautifully with:

• A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette

• Steamed green beans or broccoli

• Warm crusty bread or dinner rolls

• A light cucumber or tomato salad for contrast

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Final Thoughts (300+ Words)

This One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie is the kind of recipe that quickly becomes a household favorite. It captures everything we love about classic comfort food—warmth, creaminess, and familiar flavors—while fitting seamlessly into modern, busy lifestyles. With just one pot and less than 30 minutes of cooking time, it proves that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming.

What truly sets this dish apart is the gnocchi. Their soft, pillowy texture transforms the sauce into something deeply satisfying, almost like a cross between chicken pot pie and chicken and dumplings. Each bite feels indulgent without being overly heavy, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and cozy weekend meals.

Another standout feature is flexibility. Whether you need a gluten-free option, a dairy-free version, or a way to use up leftover chicken, this recipe adapts effortlessly. It’s forgiving, approachable, and easy to customize based on what you have in your kitchen. That kind of versatility is invaluable for home cooks who want reliable recipes they can make again and again.