Creamy One-Pot Gnocchi Chicken is the ultimate weeknight dinner savior. This dish is a warm hug on a plate, reminding me of cozy autumn evenings spent with family. Simple ingredients, minimal cleanup, and incredible flavor make this Creamy One-Pot Gnocchi Chicken a winner every time. My grandmother used to make a similar pot pie, and this is my spin on that delicious memory.
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Why You Will Love This Creamy One-Pot Gnocchi Chicken Recipe
This recipe is pure comfort food, plain and simple. Forget spending hours in the kitchen. This comes together quickly, usually in under 30 minutes! The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and pillowy gnocchi are a flavor explosion in every bite. Plus, you only need one pot, which means less washing up – always a bonus!
Picture this: you're tired after a long day, craving something delicious and satisfying. This is the answer. A creamy, cheesy, chicken gnocchi pot pie inspired masterpiece ready in minutes! I think any fan of chicken gnocchi pot pie will enjoy this easy one-pot upgrade! You and those you cook for will fall in love with the ease and taste.
Ingredients Needed for This Creamy One-Pot Gnocchi Chicken Recipe
- Chicken: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Onion: 1 medium, chopped
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Chicken Broth: 4 cups
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup
- Gnocchi: 1 (17.6 ounce) package shelf-stable gnocchi
- Frozen Peas: 1 cup
- Frozen Carrots: 1 cup
- Fresh Thyme: 1 tablespoon, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- Salt: 1 teaspoon, or to taste
- Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup, grated
How to Make This Creamy One-Pot Gnocchi Chicken Recipe
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides. Don't worry about cooking it through completely at this stage.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the onion is softened and translucent, about 3 to 5 minutes.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Make sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot – that's where all the flavor is!
Stir in the heavy cream, gnocchi, frozen peas, frozen carrots, and thyme.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Bring the mixture back to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the gnocchi is tender and the chicken is cooked through. Be sure to check the gnocchi for the right texture.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is thickened.
Serve immediately and enjoy!
How to Serve This Creamy One-Pot Gnocchi Chicken Recipe
This Creamy One-Pot Gnocchi Chicken is delicious on its own, but you can easily elevate it with some simple additions. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream for extra richness to really make create something special.
For side dishes, consider a simple green salad or some crusty bread for soaking up all that delicious sauce. For an extra pop of flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
Looking for a great way to share your favorite recipes and find more inspiration? Follow us on Pinterest for tons of delicious ideas!
How to Store This Creamy One-Pot Gnocchi Chicken Recipe
To store any leftover Creamy One-Pot Gnocchi Chicken, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can refrigerate it for up to 3 to 4 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Be aware that the texture of the gnocchi may change slightly after freezing and thawing.
Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if needed to thin the sauce.
Tips to Make This Creamy One-Pot Gnocchi Chicken Recipe
- For an even richer flavor, try searing the chicken in butter instead of olive oil.
- You can substitute other vegetables, such as broccoli florets, spinach, or mushrooms.
- If you don't have fresh thyme, dried thyme works just as well.
- To add a smoky flavor, use smoked paprika in addition to salt and pepper.
- You can use pre cooked rotisserie chicken to make this recipe even faster!
Helpful Notes for This Creamy One-Pot Gnocchi Chicken Recipe
Gnocchi comes in different varieties. Shelf-stable gnocchi typically cooks in just a few minutes, while fresh gnocchi may take slightly longer. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
Chicken broth can be substituted with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option. For dairy free option, use cashew cream.
Be careful not to overcook the gnocchi, as it can become mushy.
Need more one pot ideas? Check out One Pot Pasta Primavera to inspire you.
Variation of This Creamy One-Pot Gnocchi Chicken Recipe
- Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
- Cheesy: Use a blend of cheeses, such as mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan.
- Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and add more vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant.
- Chicken Gnocchi Pot Pie Vibe: Top with puff pastry before baking at end for a full pot pie experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I prevent my Creamy One-Pot Gnocchi Chicken from being too watery?
To prevent a watery dish, ensure you don’t add too much chicken broth or cream. Simmer the chicken uncovered for a few minutes longer to allow excess liquid to evaporate, thickening the sauce to your desired consistency.
Can I substitute the gnocchi in Creamy One-Pot Gnocchi Chicken?
Yes, you can substitute gnocchi with other pasta types like rotini or penne. Be mindful of the cooking time, as different pasta shapes may require varying amounts of time to cook properly, altering the dish from gnocchi based.
What are some good additions to Creamy One-Pot Gnocchi Chicken for extra flavor?
Consider adding vegetables like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrients. A sprinkle of parmesan cheese or a dash of red pepper flakes can also enhance the overall taste profile of the dish.
Can I make Creamy One-Pot Gnocchi Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or cream if needed to loosen the sauce.
Is Creamy One-Pot Gnocchi Chicken gluten-free adaptable?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be gluten-free by using gluten-free gnocchi and a gluten-free thickening agent, like cornstarch, if needed. Always check the labels of your ingredients to ensure they are certified gluten-free.
Conclusion
Creamy One-Pot Gnocchi Chicken is the kind of recipe you keep close for those evenings when you want a great meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Creamy, comforting, and full of flavor, it brings together everything we love about an easy dinner: simple ingredients, one pot, and a result the whole family will enjoy. Whether it’s a quick weeknight meal or a cozy moment around the table, this recipe never disappoints. Feel free to adapt it to your taste and share your version with us. And for even more easy and delicious ideas, be sure to find us on Pinterest so you never miss a bit of inspiration.
Creamy One-Pot Gnocchi Chicken: Easiest Weeknight Dinner
A creamy, comforting, and delicious one pot meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes! This Creamy One-Pot Gnocchi Chicken recipe is a family favorite.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Category: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian American
Nutrition:
Protein: 30g
Carbs: 30g
Fat: 25g
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 (17.6 ounce) package shelf-stable gnocchi
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup frozen carrots
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the onion is softened and translucent, about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Stir in the heavy cream, gnocchi, frozen peas, frozen carrots, and thyme.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Bring the mixture back to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the gnocchi is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is thickened.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- For an even richer flavor, try searing the chicken in butter instead of olive oil.
- You can substitute other vegetables, such as broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms.
- For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Use pre cooked rotisserie chicken to make this recipe even faster!