Name: Classic Chicken And Dumplings With Gnocchi
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded cooked chicken; 16 oz gnocchi (shelf-stable or fresh); 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley

Comfort food doesn’t get more soul-soothing than this: tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi dumplings, and a rich, savory broth all come together in one pot. Classic Chicken and Dumplings With Gnocchi is a cozy twist on the Southern favorite, and it delivers creamy satisfaction in every spoonful.

Instead of the usual biscuit-style dumplings, we’re using gnocchi — those little Italian potato pillows — which melt right into the stew as they cook. The result? A one-pot meal that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to pull together on a weeknight.

Why You’ll Love This Classic Chicken And Dumplings With Gnocchi

This dish is pure comfort in a bowl. The combination of shredded chicken and soft gnocchi gives you the cozy, tender bite of dumplings without the need to mix dough or worry about rising. It comes together quickly, especially if you have leftover chicken or a rotisserie chicken on hand. The creamy broth is rich and peppery, perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re craving something deeply satisfying.

What Kind of Gnocchi Should I Use?

Shelf-stable gnocchi works wonderfully in this recipe and can be found in the pasta aisle of most grocery stores. You can also use fresh gnocchi from the refrigerated section for an extra-soft texture. If you’re feeling ambitious, homemade gnocchi will make this dish feel extra special, though it’s absolutely delicious with store-bought.

Ingredients for the Classic Chicken And Dumplings With Gnocchi

This version of chicken and dumplings keeps the ingredients simple yet flavorful. The gnocchi replaces traditional dumplings, offering a tender bite that soaks up the creamy broth beautifully.

Chicken breast or thighs: Cooked and shredded, this is the hearty protein base of the dish.
Gnocchi: The star ingredient, replacing dumplings with soft potato pillows.
Carrots: For a hint of sweetness and color.
Celery: Adds classic aromatic flavor.
Onion: A key building block of the savory broth.
Garlic: For depth and a touch of sharpness.
Chicken broth: Forms the flavorful liquid base.
Heavy cream: Makes the broth rich and velvety.
Butter: Adds richness and enhances the flavor.
Flour: Used to thicken the soup.
Olive oil: For sautéing the vegetables.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for balancing the flavors.
Thyme and parsley: Herbs that bring in freshness and aroma.

How To Make the Classic Chicken And Dumplings With Gnocchi

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery, and cook until they begin to soften. Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute.

Step 2: Make the Base

Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir to coat evenly. Cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate any raw flour taste. Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring, scraping up any browned bits on the bottom of the pot.

Step 3: Simmer and Add Chicken

Bring the mixture to a simmer and add the shredded chicken, thyme, salt, and pepper. Let it cook for about 10 minutes so the flavors meld.

Step 4: Add Gnocchi

Add the gnocchi and cook according to package directions, usually 2-4 minutes, until they float to the top and are tender.

Step 5: Finish With Cream

Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Let everything heat through gently, then add chopped parsley just before serving.

How to Serve and Store Classic Chicken And Dumplings With Gnocchi

This recipe makes about 4 to 6 hearty servings, perfect for a comforting family dinner or meal prep for the week. Serve it hot, with a crusty piece of bread or a light green salad. The creamy texture makes it filling enough to stand on its own.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk if it thickens too much. While it can be frozen, the gnocchi may become slightly softer upon thawing.

What to Serve With Classic Chicken And Dumplings With Gnocchi?

A Light Arugula Salad

The peppery freshness of arugula dressed with lemon vinaigrette offers a nice contrast to the creamy soup.

Buttery Dinner Rolls

Warm, fluffy rolls are perfect for soaking up every last drop of broth.

Roasted Asparagus

Simple roasted asparagus adds a healthy green element and brightens the meal.

Garlic Parmesan Green Beans

Crisp-tender green beans tossed with garlic and parmesan are a great flavorful side.

Southern Cornbread Poppers

If you like a little Southern flair, these cheesy bites pair beautifully with the hearty stew.

Easy Homemade Naan Bread

Soft and chewy, naan scoops up the creamy soup like a dream.

Apple Cranberry Slaw

For a little sweetness and crunch, this fruity slaw gives a fresh finish.

Want More Chicken Comfort Food Ideas?

If you love this Classic Chicken And Dumplings With Gnocchi recipe, here are more comforting and easy chicken meals to try:

Herby Chicken Meatball Bowl for a nourishing bowl with green goodness.
No Peek Chicken Casserole for a low-fuss baked dinner.
Chicken Biscuit Casserole if you crave creamy chicken with fluffy biscuits.
Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta for indulgent comfort.
Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet if you’re in the mood for zesty heat.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know how your version turned out! Did you try fresh gnocchi or stick with store-bought? I always love hearing your twists and tips.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting dinners and comfort food favorites over at Janet Dishes on Pinterest and find your next go-to cozy recipe.

Conclusion

Classic Chicken and Dumplings With Gnocchi is the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug. It’s quick enough for weeknights but satisfying enough for weekend cravings. With its creamy broth, tender chicken, and soft gnocchi dumplings, this dish is sure to become a comfort food classic in your home.