ONE POT GNOCCHI CHICKEN POT PIE

A cozy twist on classic comfort food, ONE POT GNOCCHI CHICKEN POT PIE combines pillowy gnocchi with a creamy pot pie filling. This delicious dish is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, this recipe will become a favorite in your kitchen in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy schedules.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup required with everything cooked in a single skillet.
• Comforting Flavor: Combines tender chicken and savory vegetables in a creamy sauce.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use leftover chicken or swap in your favorite seasonal veggies.
• Family-Friendly: A dish that appeals to both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making ONE POT GNOCCHI CHICKEN POT PIE, gather the essential tools to make your cooking experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large, deep skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large, deep skillet: Provides ample space for cooking all ingredients evenly without spilling.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient quantities, crucial for balanced flavors.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 medium carrots (sliced into half-moons)
• 3 celery ribs (diced)
• 10 ounces cremini mushrooms (quartered)
• 1 medium yellow onion (finely chopped)
• 4 garlic cloves (minced)

For the Sauce

• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or GF flour blend)
• 3 cups chicken stock (homemade preferred)
• 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

For the Gnocchi and Chicken

• 16 ounces fresh potato gnocchi
• 2 1/2 cups cooked chicken (torn into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 cup sweet peas (fresh or frozen)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Optional Topping

• Grated Parmesan for serving

How to Make ONE POT GNOCCHI CHICKEN POT PIE

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Melt butter in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced carrots, diced celery, finely chopped onion, and salt. Cook until the vegetables soften, about 6-8 minutes.

Step 2: Sauté Mushrooms and Garlic

Add quartered mushrooms and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the mushrooms release their moisture, approximately 5 minutes.

Step 3: Create the Sauce Base

Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir to coat. Cook for another 2 minutes while stirring constantly to avoid lumps.

Step 4: Add Liquids and Seasonings

Gradually whisk in chicken stock followed by milk while stirring continuously. Add Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, and nutmeg if using. Bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Cook the Gnocchi

Once simmering, add fresh potato gnocchi to the skillet. Cook uncovered for about 4-5 minutes while stirring occasionally until gnocchi is tender.

Step 6: Combine Chicken and Peas

Stir in torn cooked chicken pieces and sweet peas. Simmer for an additional 3-4 minutes until heated through and sauce thickens.

Step 7: Final Touches

Fold in chopped fresh herbs such as parsley and thyme. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Step 8: Serve

Let rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Top with grated Parmesan if desired. Enjoy your delicious ONE POT GNOCCHI CHICKEN POT PIE!

How to Serve ONE POT GNOCCHI CHICKEN POT PIE

This creamy and hearty dish is perfect for any occasion. Here are some serving ideas that will enhance your meal experience.

Pair with Fresh Bread

• Crusty Artisan Bread: A warm, crusty loaf complements the creamy texture of the pot pie beautifully.
• Garlic Bread: The flavors of garlic bread can elevate the meal and add a delightful crunch.

Add a Side Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: Lighten up the meal with a fresh salad tossed in a light vinaigrette.
• Caesar Salad (without anchovies): A classic choice that adds crispness and flavor to balance the richness of the pot pie.

Garnish for Extra Flavor

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Scatter additional parsley or thyme on top before serving for a burst of freshness.
• Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest can brighten up the dish and add an unexpected twist.

How to Perfect ONE POT GNOCCHI CHICKEN POT PIE

Making this dish perfect every time is simple with these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance flavor and texture, making your pot pie more enjoyable.
• Don’t Overcook Gnocchi: Follow the cooking time closely; overcooked gnocchi can become mushy. Aim for a tender bite.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and herbs to suit your flavor preference before serving.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the pot pie to rest for 5 minutes after cooking helps thicken the sauce and improves flavors.

Best Side Dishes for ONE POT GNOCCHI CHICKEN POT PIE

Completing your meal with side dishes can make it even more satisfying. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus offers a bright, fresh contrast to the creamy pot pie.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in olive oil and roasted until crispy, they add a savory crunch.
3. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes work well alongside gnocchi for those who love comfort food.
4. Sautéed Green Beans: Quickly sautéed green beans with garlic provide a vibrant color and taste.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn pairs nicely with the rich flavors of the pot pie; serve it grilled or boiled.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can add acidity and crunch, balancing out the creaminess of the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your ONE POT GNOCCHI CHICKEN POT PIE turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

• Skipping the seasoning: Neglecting to season your vegetables can result in a bland dish. Always add salt and pepper during cooking for better flavor.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Using too much or too little flour or stock can affect the sauce’s consistency. Always measure ingredients precisely for the best results.
• Overcooking the gnocchi: Cooking gnocchi for too long can make them mushy. Follow the cooking time closely to keep them tender yet firm.
• Using cold chicken: Adding cold chicken directly from the fridge can lower the temperature of your dish. Let it come to room temperature before mixing it in for even heating.
• Ignoring fresh herbs: Skipping fresh herbs at the end can lead to a less vibrant flavor. Always fold in fresh herbs just before serving for maximum taste.
• Not letting it rest: Serving immediately may lead to a runny filling. Allowing it to rest helps thicken the sauce and improves texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Freezing ONE POT GNOCCHI CHICKEN POT PIE

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating ONE POT GNOCCHI CHICKEN POT PIE

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until hot throughout, usually around 2-3 minutes.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, which takes about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making ONE POT GNOCCHI CHICKEN POT PIE.

Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

Yes, store-bought gnocchi works perfectly in this recipe. Just follow the package instructions for cooking time.

What type of chicken should I use?

You can use any cooked chicken, such as rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken, torn into bite-sized pieces.

Can I customize the vegetables in ONE POT GNOCCHI CHICKEN POT PIE?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or green beans for added nutrition and flavor.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend will keep this dish gluten-free while maintaining its creamy texture.

Final Thoughts

This ONE POT GNOCCHI CHICKEN POT PIE is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins. Try it out and enjoy a delicious meal that comes together quickly!