As the aroma of sautéed garlic fills the kitchen, I can’t help but smile at the anticipation of a comforting meal. This Creamy Chicken & Gnocchi recipe is my go-to for those evenings when I crave something luscious yet simple to whip up. Not only does it come together in just 35 minutes, but the combination of tender chicken, velvety cream, and pillowy gnocchi creates a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Plus, with fresh spinach sneaking in some greens, it’s a delightful way to balance comfort with a bit of nutrition. Are you ready to dive into this creamy concoction and impress your loved ones with a homemade dinner? Let’s get cooking!
What makes this gnocchi dish special?
Easy, Delicious, and Quick: This Creamy Chicken & Gnocchi recipe is a true lifesaver for busy weeknights, taking just 35 minutes from start to finish. Rich, Comforting Flavor: With creamy goodness enveloping juicy chicken and tender gnocchi, it promises to be a crowd-pleaser. Healthier Twist: Adding fresh spinach provides a pop of color and nutrients, showing that comfort food can be wholesome too. Impressive Presentation: Serve it up garnished with fresh parsley, and watch your family and friends marvel at your culinary skills! Don’t forget to check out our other comforting dishes like our Cheesy Baked Ziti or One-Pot Pasta Primavera for more delicious inspirations.
Creamy Chicken & Gnocchi Ingredients
For the Chicken
• 1 lb chicken breast, diced – ensures tender, juicy pieces that soak up the rich sauce.
• Salt, to taste – enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• Pepper, to taste – adds a kick of warmth to the chicken.
For the Sauté
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – helps brown the chicken and adds depth of flavor.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – infuses the dish with a wonderful aroma and taste.
• 2 cups fresh spinach – boosts nutrition and adds vibrant color to the dish.
For the Creamy Sauce
• 2 tablespoons butter – creates a rich base for the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon flour – thickens the sauce to a creamy consistency.
• 1 cup chicken broth – provides a savory background flavor.
• 1 cup heavy cream – delivers the luscious creaminess characteristic of this recipe.
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese – adds a salty, nutty flavor that enhances the sauce.
For the Gnocchi
• 1 lb gnocchi – these delightful pillows of potato will absorb the creamy sauce beautifully.
For Garnish
• Fresh parsley – adds a pop of color and freshness to the final presentation.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Chicken & Gnocchi
Step 1: Brown the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Season 1 pound of diced chicken breast with salt and pepper. Place the chicken in the skillet and brown it for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Spinach
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Then, add 2 cups of fresh spinach and cook until it wilts, which should take another 1-2 minutes. Once wilted, remove the mixture from the skillet and set aside with the chicken for later.
Step 3: Make the Roux
With the skillet still over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of butter and let it melt completely. Once melted, whisk in 1 teaspoon of flour and cook the mixture for about 1 minute, stirring continuously to form a roux. This will create a thick base for your creamy sauce and enhance the flavors of the Creamy Chicken & Gnocchi.
Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
Gradually whisk in 1 cup of chicken broth and 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring constantly to combine. Continue to simmer the sauce for about 4-5 minutes, allowing it to thicken. You’ll know it’s ready when it coats the back of a spoon and looks creamy and luscious.
Step 5: Add Cheese to the Sauce
Now, stir in 1 cup of grated parmesan cheese, blending it into the sauce until it melts completely and becomes smooth. At this point, the sauce should be rich and flavorful, creating an irresistible base for your Creamy Chicken & Gnocchi.
Step 6: Incorporate the Gnocchi
Add 1 pound of gnocchi directly into the creamy sauce, stirring gently to ensure the gnocchi is well-coated. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the gnocchi are heated through and tender. The sauce should cling beautifully to the pasta, creating a velvety texture.
Step 7: Combine Chicken and Spinach
Next, fold in the cooked chicken and sautéed spinach into the gnocchi and sauce mixture. Mix everything gently to ensure even distribution of the chicken and greens throughout the Creamy Chicken & Gnocchi. This final step enhances the dish with protein and nutrition, making it heartier.
Step 8: Serve and Garnish
Carefully transfer the Creamy Chicken & Gnocchi to serving plates, ensuring an even distribution of chicken and spinach on each plate. Finally, garnish each dish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm and watch the smiles on your loved ones' faces!
Expert Tips for Creamy Chicken & Gnocchi
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Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Always ensure your chicken is cooked completely, around 165°F internally. Undercooking can lead to food safety issues while overcooking results in dryness.
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Avoiding a Watery Sauce: Whisk the flour thoroughly into the melted butter to create a strong roux. This step is crucial to prevent a thin sauce in your Creamy Chicken & Gnocchi.
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Fresh Gnocchi is Best: If possible, use fresh gnocchi instead of the packaged kind. They have a delightful texture that absorbs the sauce beautifully.
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Season Gradually: Taste your creamy sauce as you cook and adjust salt and pepper gradually to get the perfect balance without overpowering flavors.
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Veggie Variations: Feel free to add, such as mushrooms or bell peppers, to enhance nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them alongside the spinach for a delicious twist!
Creamy Chicken & Gnocchi Variations
Feel free to get creative with this comforting dish and tailor it to your tastes and dietary needs!
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Vegetarian: Swap out chicken for sautéed mushrooms and chickpeas to maintain protein while keeping it hearty.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free gnocchi and flour for the roux, ensuring everyone can enjoy the creamy goodness without a worry.
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Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or finely diced jalapeños to the sauce for a delightful heat that warms your soul.
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Extra Veggies: Toss in diced bell peppers or zucchini along with the spinach for even more color and nutrition. They’ll add a lovely crunch!
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Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like basil or thyme with the spinach to elevate the flavor profile and add freshness.
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Creamy Dream: Try substituting half of the heavy cream with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist that’s slightly lighter while still creamy.
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Cheesy Boost: Mix in a dollop of ricotta cheese before serving for an extra layer of creaminess that your family will adore.
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Lemon Zest: A splash of fresh lemon juice and zest can brighten this rich dish wonderfully, adding a refreshing twist that balances the creaminess perfectly.
As you explore these variations, don’t forget to get inspired by other delicious options like our Cheesy Baked Ziti or One-Pot Pasta Primavera for your next culinary adventure!
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Chicken & Gnocchi
Fridge: Store any leftover Creamy Chicken & Gnocchi in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a well-sealed container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove, adding a splash of cream if needed.
Reheating: When reheating, do so slowly over low heat to prevent the cream from separating. Stir frequently to maintain that silky texture you love!
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Chicken & Gnocchi are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can sauté the chicken and wilt the spinach up to 3 days in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their quality. The creamy sauce can also be made ahead; just ensure it cools before refrigerating. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce gently in a skillet, add the gnocchi, and fold in the prepped chicken and spinach. This saves you time on busy weeknights while delivering the same rich, comforting flavor your family loves, making your meal just as delicious as if it were freshly prepared!
What to Serve with Creamy Chicken & Gnocchi
A comforting dish like this invites a selection of delightful complements to create a fulfilling meal experience.
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Garlic Bread: With its warm, buttery goodness, this classic pairing perfectly balances out the creamy richness of the gnocchi.
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Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad brings a delightful crunch and bright flavors, enhancing the comforting nature of the main dish.
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Roasted Vegetables: Vibrant roasted veggies like carrots and Brussels sprouts add texture and nutritional value, making your plate visually appealing and wholesome.
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Steamed Asparagus: The crispness and buttery notes of steamed asparagus contrast beautifully with the velvety sauce, creating a harmony of flavors.
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Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in balsamic glaze, they add a crispy, slightly sweet bite that harmonizes wonderfully with the creamy sauce.
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Chardonnay: This wine’s crisp acidity cuts through the richness, elevating each bite and creating a delightful dining experience.
Each of these accompaniments not only enhances your meal but also makes the experience feel special, bridging the gap between comforting and gourmet!
Creamy Chicken & Gnocchi Recipe FAQs
What kind of chicken should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely, I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this Creamy Chicken & Gnocchi recipe. They are tender and cook evenly, infusing the dish with flavor. You can also use thigh meat if you prefer a richer taste!
How long can I store the leftovers in the refrigerator?
You can store any leftover Creamy Chicken & Gnocchi in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth to revive that creamy texture!
Can I freeze Creamy Chicken & Gnocchi?
Definitely! To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to a well-sealed container and freeze for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring regularly.
How can I prevent the cream from curdling when reheating?
To keep that rich, velvety texture, reheat the Creamy Chicken & Gnocchi slowly over low heat. Stir in a little cream or chicken broth if you notice any separation, and stir continuously to keep everything smooth and creamy!
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make the Creamy Chicken & Gnocchi gluten-free, simply substitute the flour used for the roux with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend. Just remember to adjust the quantities as needed, using roughly half the amount for the same thickening power.
Is this recipe safe for pets?
While the ingredients in this dish are delicious, they are not suited for pets. Make sure to keep it away from them, especially due to the garlic content, which can be harmful to dogs and cats.
Creamy Chicken & Gnocchi: A Comforting Weeknight Delight
Equipment
- large skillet
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced ensures tender, juicy pieces that soak up the rich sauce.
- Salt, to taste enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- Pepper, to taste adds a kick of warmth to the chicken.
For the Sauté
- 2 tablespoons olive oil helps brown the chicken and adds depth of flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced infuses the dish with a wonderful aroma and taste.
- 2 cups fresh spinach boosts nutrition and adds vibrant color to the dish.
For the Creamy Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter creates a rich base for the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon flour thickens the sauce to a creamy consistency.
- 1 cup chicken broth provides a savory background flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream delivers the luscious creaminess characteristic of this recipe.
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor that enhances the sauce.
For the Gnocchi
- 1 lb gnocchi these delightful pillows of potato will absorb the creamy sauce beautifully.
For Garnish
- fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the final presentation.
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Chicken & Gnocchi
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Season 1 pound of diced chicken breast with salt and pepper. Place the chicken in the skillet and brown it for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Then, add 2 cups of fresh spinach and cook until it wilts, which should take another 1-2 minutes. Once wilted, remove the mixture from the skillet and set aside with the chicken for later.
- With the skillet still over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of butter and let it melt completely. Once melted, whisk in 1 teaspoon of flour and cook the mixture for about 1 minute, stirring continuously to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in 1 cup of chicken broth and 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring constantly to combine. Continue to simmer the sauce for about 4-5 minutes, allowing it to thicken.
- Now, stir in 1 cup of grated parmesan cheese, blending it into the sauce until it melts completely and becomes smooth.
- Add 1 pound of gnocchi directly into the creamy sauce, stirring gently to ensure the gnocchi is well-coated. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the gnocchi are heated through and tender.
- Next, fold in the cooked chicken and sautéed spinach into the gnocchi and sauce mixture. Mix everything gently to ensure even distribution of the chicken and greens throughout the Creamy Chicken & Gnocchi.
- Carefully transfer the Creamy Chicken & Gnocchi to serving plates, ensuring an even distribution of chicken and spinach on each plate. Finally, garnish each dish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
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