There is something irresistibly cozy about the Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi Pot Pie Recipe. This delightful dish combines tender chunks of chicken with pillowy potato gnocchi, all enveloped in a luscious, creamy sauce that’s brimming with savory vegetables and fragrant herbs. Topped with flaky golden puff pastry, it’s the perfect comfort food that feels both indulgent and comforting, ready to bring warmth and satisfaction to any mealtime.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting together this recipe is wonderfully simple thanks to a handful of staple ingredients that each play a key role in building flavor, texture, and a beautiful presentation. From the tender chicken to the creamy sauce and crisp puff pastry, everything comes together effortlessly to create a dish you’ll want to make again and again.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a flavorful base for sautéing ingredients and keeps the chicken juicy.
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces): Provides lean, tender protein as the main star of the pot pie.
- 1 small yellow onion (diced): Brings gentle sweetness and depth to the filling.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses a subtle aromatic kick essential for hearty dishes.
- 2 medium carrots (sliced): Adds natural sweetness and a touch of color.
- 2 celery stalks (sliced): Introduces a mild crunch and classic pot pie flavor.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Elevates all the ingredients’ tastes perfectly.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle warmth that complements the creaminess.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Gives the dish an earthy, herbaceous note.
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce to that perfectly creamy consistency.
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth: Builds a rich, savory liquid base without overwhelming saltiness.
- 1 cup whole milk: Softens the sauce and adds a mellow richness.
- ½ cup heavy cream: Brings indulgent creaminess and silkiness to the filling.
- 1 (16-ounce) package potato gnocchi: Offers a pillowy texture that soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully.
- 1 cup frozen peas: Adds vibrant bursts of color and a hint of sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional): Provides a fresh, bright touch to finish.
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed): The crowning glory that bakes into a golden, flaky crust.
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash): Ensures a shiny, golden top that looks as good as it tastes.
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi Pot Pie Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once hot, add the bite-sized chicken pieces and cook until they’re no longer pink in the center, about 5 to 6 minutes. This step seals in all the juicy goodness and forms the hearty base of your filling. When done, transfer chicken to a plate and set aside for later.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Vegetables
In the same skillet, toss in diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery. Cook these vegetables for about 4 to 5 minutes until they soften and the kitchen fills with delicious aromas. These veggies add layers of flavor and texture that make this pot pie truly satisfying.
Step 3: Build the Creamy Sauce
Season the softened veggies with salt, black pepper, and dried thyme, stirring to combine. Then sprinkle in the flour, stirring constantly for about a minute to cook out the raw taste. Gradually pour in the chicken broth, milk, and heavy cream while stirring to prevent lumps. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer and watch as it thickens into a silky sauce that coats every bite.
Step 4: Add the Gnocchi and Finish Filling
Next, stir in the potato gnocchi, letting them cook in the sauce for 5 to 6 minutes until they float to the top and become tender. Return the cooked chicken to the pan and fold in the frozen peas just before removing from heat. If you’re using fresh parsley, sprinkle it in now for a bright burst of color and flavor.
Step 5: Top with Puff Pastry and Bake
Lightly roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet to fit your skillet, then gently place it over the creamy filling, tucking the edges inside. Brush the surface with the beaten egg to get that irresistible golden crust after baking. Cut a few small slits in the pastry to let steam escape. Slide the skillet into the oven and bake at 400°F for 20 to 25 minutes until the pastry is puffed, golden, and bubbly.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi Pot Pie Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a lovely pop of green and a fresh hint that contrasts with the richness perfectly. You can also add a light dusting of freshly cracked black pepper for a little extra zing on the plate.
Side Dishes
Serve this pot pie with a crisp green salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette to brighten the meal. Roasted or steamed green vegetables like asparagus or broccoli florets work beautifully too, adding texture and vibrant flavors alongside the creamy pot pie.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, make individual servings by dividing the filling into ramekins and topping each with puff pastry. This makes for an elegant presentation, perfect for dinner parties or cozy family dinners where everyone gets their own golden-topped pot pie to enjoy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover pot pie to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The creamy filling stays rich and flavorful, making for an easy next-day meal.
Freezing
You can freeze the filling and puff pastry separately if you want to prep in advance. Wrap the filling tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed, applying a fresh egg wash to the puff pastry before baking.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently either in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through or in the microwave using short intervals to avoid overcooking. The puff pastry crust may lose some crispness but the filling stays wonderfully creamy.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi Pot Pie Recipe?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken saves time and still delivers tender, flavorful chicken that’s perfect for the filling.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the milk and cream with unsweetened almond or oat milk and use dairy-free butter or oil, but the sauce may be less rich and creamy than the original version.
Can I use homemade gnocchi instead of store-bought?
Definitely! Homemade gnocchi adds a lovely fresh touch and can make the dish feel even more special, though store-bought gnocchi works perfectly for convenience.
What should I do if I don’t have an oven-safe skillet?
No worries! Simply transfer the creamy filling to a baking dish, then top it with the rolled-out puff pastry before baking.
How thick should I roll out the puff pastry?
A light roll to slightly enlarge the sheet so it covers the filling comfortably is ideal—about 1/8 inch thick works well for that perfect golden crust.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a truly comforting meal that combines creamy, savory flavors with the delightful softness of gnocchi and the satisfying crisp of puff pastry, you must try this Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi Pot Pie Recipe. It’s a heartwarming dish that promises to please everyone at the table, making every bite an invitation to cozy up and savor something wonderful.
