If you’re looking for a dish that wraps you in warmth and comfort, yet feels special enough for any day of the week, this Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi recipe is an absolute winner. Imagine tender bites of seasoned chicken paired with pillowy potato gnocchi, all swimming in a rich, luscious sauce made with garlic, spinach, mushrooms, and Parmesan cheese. It’s a fantastic balance of textures and flavors that come together quickly, making it perfect for busy evenings when you want something both satisfying and easy to prepare. Once you try this Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi, it’s guaranteed to become a favorite you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients often make the most delightful meals, and this Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi proves just that. Each item brings its own magic to the skillet—whether it’s the tender chicken adding substantial protein, the gnocchi giving tender bites that soak up sauce beautifully, or the fresh spinach adding a burst of color and nutrition. The mushrooms and Parmesan deepen the flavor, while garlic and onion build the savory base that ties everything together.
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick, even cooking and juicy texture.
- 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi: These soft, pillow-like dumplings absorb the flavors perfectly and cook quickly.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing chicken and building flavor without overpowering the dish.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds aromatic depth and a touch of pungent warmth.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Provides sweetness and a savory base when sautéed.
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped: Adds freshness, color, and a nutritional boost.
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced: Earthy and tender, these amplify the umami richness.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the creamy, velvety texture that defines this dish’s sauce.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Adds moisture and a savory background to help build the sauce.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce, adding nuttiness and saltiness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential to balance and enhance all the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings a fragrant, Mediterranean flair.
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like just a subtle hint of heat.
- Fresh parsley for garnish: Adds a pop of color and fresh herbal notes at the end.
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the bite-sized chicken pieces and season them generously with salt, pepper, and dried Italian seasoning. The trick is to let the chicken brown beautifully—this caramelization adds a savory depth that really makes the Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi sing. Cook for about 6 to 8 minutes until the chicken is golden and cooked through, then set it aside to rest while we build the sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Mushrooms
Using the same skillet keeps all those flavorful bits from the chicken right where we want them. If needed, add a touch more olive oil. Toss in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until they become fragrant and translucent, about 2 to 3 minutes. Then, introduce the sliced mushrooms and continue cooking until they soften and release their earthy aroma, roughly 4 minutes. This mixture will be the heart of the sauce.
Step 3: Add Broth and Gnocchi
Pour in the chicken broth gently and bring it to a simmer. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan — this adds incredible umami flavor. Add the potato gnocchi directly to the skillet and cook according to package instructions, usually about 2 to 3 minutes until the gnocchi float to the top, indicating they’re perfectly cooked and ready to absorb the sauce.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and stir in the heavy cream along with the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously to allow the sauce to thicken just slightly, turning beautifully smooth and rich. This is what transforms simple ingredients into the indulgent Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi that you’ll instantly love.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Spinach
Return the cooked chicken back to the skillet, toss in the fresh spinach and sprinkle the crushed red pepper flakes if you’re adding a touch of warmth. Stir everything together just until the spinach wilts and all the ingredients are heated through for that perfect melding of flavors. Give the dish a final taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Your Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi is ready to make its grand entrance!
How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi
Garnishes
Finishing with a sprinkle of fresh parsley not only brightens the plate visually but also adds a fresh, herbaceous note that perfectly complements the rich sauce in the Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi. Consider grating a little more Parmesan on top before serving for extra cheesy goodness.
Side Dishes
This dish shines on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, think simple and fresh: a crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts provide a pleasant contrast in texture and freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi in shallow, rustic bowls that show off the creamy sauce and colorful veggies. Garnish with edible flowers or a drizzle of balsamic glaze to impress guests at dinner parties or cozy date nights.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store your leftover Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for a tasty next-day meal that’s quick to reheat.
Freezing
While gnocchi can be a bit delicate when frozen, this dish freezes surprisingly well if you separate the components. Freeze the creamy sauce and chicken separately from the gnocchi, and combine them freshly cooked for best texture when reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat to avoid separating the creamy sauce. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce thickens too much. Alternatively, microwaving in short bursts with stirring in between keeps it hot and creamy without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought gnocchi for this recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought potato gnocchi works wonderfully here and saves time. Just follow package directions for cooking them in the skillet.
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, if you choose gluten-free gnocchi, this Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi meal is safe for gluten-free diets while remaining delicious and comforting.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the heavy cream for a coconut milk or cashew cream alternative and use a dairy-free Parmesan-style cheese for a creamy, dairy-free version.
What can I add to boost the vegetable content?
Feel free to add peas, sun-dried tomatoes, or even roasted red peppers to brighten the dish up and add layers of flavor and nutrition.
How spicy is the dish with red pepper flakes?
The crushed red pepper flakes add a gentle heat that complements the richness without overwhelming, but you can always leave them out if you prefer milder flavors.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s effortless, comforting, and full of flavor, perfect for sharing with family or indulging by yourself after a long day. I can’t recommend giving it a try enough — once you do, you’ll understand why it quickly becomes a beloved classic in any home kitchen.
Print
Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This creamy chicken and gnocchi recipe is a comforting and hearty one-pan meal featuring tender chicken breasts, pillowy potato gnocchi, fresh spinach, and mushrooms all simmered in a rich Parmesan cream sauce. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, it combines savory flavors and creamy textures for a satisfying American-style main course.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Pasta
- 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi
Vegetables & Herbs
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Dairy & Liquid
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Oils & Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed, then sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
- Cook Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they soften, about 4 minutes.
- Add Broth and Gnocchi: Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions, usually about 2-3 minutes until they float to the top.
- Make the Cream Sauce: Reduce heat to low, stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Combine and Heat Through: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, add the spinach and crushed red pepper flakes if using, and stir until the spinach wilts and everything is heated through.
- Season and Garnish: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream or use a dairy-free cream alternative.
- You can add other vegetables such as peas or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor and color.
- To make it vegetarian, replace the chicken with extra mushrooms or a plant-based protein.
- Leftovers reheat well in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth.
