If you’re craving a comforting, hearty dinner that’s as easy as it is delicious, this One-Pan Chicken and Gnocchi Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Imagine tender, golden chicken breasts nestled in a creamy, garlicky sauce with pillowy gnocchi, earthy mushrooms, and bright spinach—all cooked together in one skillet for minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. It’s a wonderful meal that feels special without demanding hours in the kitchen, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient here plays an essential role in building layers of flavor and texture, from the juicy chicken to the creamy sauce and fresh greens. These simple, accessible ingredients come together effortlessly to create a stunning dish.
- 1 1/2 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star protein that stays juicy and tender when cooked just right.
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Basic seasoning that enhances every other ingredient’s natural flavors.
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, divided: Adds richness and helps achieve a beautiful golden sear on the chicken and vegetables.
- 1 small shallot, diced: Offers a mild sweetness and depth without overpowering the dish.
- 8 oz baby bella mushrooms, sliced: Brings an earthy, meaty texture that pairs deliciously with chicken.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Provides aromatic warmth and savory punch throughout the sauce.
- 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves: Imparts subtle herbal notes that brighten the creamy sauce.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: Adds a classic Mediterranean flavor that complements the chicken perfectly.
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth: Forms the flavorful base of the sauce and keeps everything moist.
- 1 1/4 cups half and half: Creates the smooth, luscious cream sauce coating the gnocchi and chicken.
- Pinch crushed red pepper flakes: Just a hint of heat lifts the overall richness and keeps the palate interested.
- 1 (17-oz) package gnocchi: Soft, pillowy dumplings that soak up all the wonderful sauce for ultimate comfort.
- 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella: Melts into silkiness, adding gooey, cheesy goodness throughout.
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan: Offers a nutty, sharp flavor that balances creaminess beautifully.
- 3 cups packed baby spinach: Adds vibrant color, nutrition, and a fresh bite to cut through the richness.
How to Make One-Pan Chicken and Gnocchi Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully add the chicken and cook for about 4 minutes per side until they develop a golden-brown crust and are nearly cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set aside to rest while you prepare the sauce. This simple step locks in juices and builds a flavorful base for your dish.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Mushrooms
Reduce the skillet heat to medium and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in diced shallots and sliced baby bella mushrooms, sautéing them for about 5 minutes or until they’re beautifully golden and fragrant. This process builds a deep, earthy flavor that elevates the entire dish. Stir in minced garlic, fresh thyme, and oregano, letting those aromas bloom for another minute before moving on.
Step 3: Build the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth, making sure to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan—you don’t want to lose that extra richness! Slowly add the half and half, seasoning with salt, pepper, and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer to meld all those wonderful flavors together. This creamy, seasoned liquid will be the heart of your One-Pan Chicken and Gnocchi Recipe.
Step 4: Cook the Gnocchi and Finish the Chicken
Stir in the gnocchi and nestle the partially cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet. Allow everything to simmer gently for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gnocchi are tender and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, indicating it’s safely cooked through. Once ready, remove the chicken once more and set it aside briefly while you bring the sauce to the final stage.
Step 5: Melt Cheese and Add Greens
Add shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan to the sauce and stir until they melt completely, creating a luxuriously creamy and cheesy coating. Toss in the fresh baby spinach and stir until it wilts down, introducing a lovely pop of green and freshness that brightens every bite. Slice the rested chicken breasts and return them to the skillet, allowing the flavors to marry for a moment before serving.
How to Serve One-Pan Chicken and Gnocchi Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan make perfect finishing touches that add color and a burst of fresh flavor. A drizzle of good quality olive oil or a twist of cracked black pepper also complements this dish beautifully, elevating its presentation and taste.
Side Dishes
While this meal is wonderfully filling on its own, pairing it with a crisp green salad or some garlic bread rounds out the dining experience perfectly. Light sides will balance the richness of the creamy sauce and bring some textural contrast to your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this One-Pan Chicken and Gnocchi Recipe in individual cast iron skillets or rustic bowls right at the table. Garnish with edible flowers or microgreens for an elegant touch that impresses guests. You can also transform leftovers into a hearty pasta bake by layering the mixture with extra cheese and baking until bubbly and golden.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover One-Pan Chicken and Gnocchi Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the dish has cooled completely before sealing to preserve freshness and prevent sogginess.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. It’s best to freeze the dish without the spinach or add fresh greens when reheating to maintain texture and color.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the dish on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Adding a splash of chicken broth or half and half can help restore the creamy texture if it has thickened too much. Avoid microwaving for best results, as the sauce and chicken reheat more evenly on the stovetop.
FAQs
Can I use frozen gnocchi in this recipe?
Absolutely! Just add the frozen gnocchi directly to the skillet and increase the simmer time by a few minutes to ensure they cook through perfectly.
What can I substitute for half and half?
If you don’t have half and half, a mix of whole milk and heavy cream works well to achieve a similar creamy texture and flavor.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs would be delicious too and tend to stay even juicier, though the cooking time may vary slightly.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Definitely. This One-Pan Chicken and Gnocchi Recipe stores and reheats wonderfully, making it an excellent option for preparing lunches or dinners in advance.
How spicy is the dish with the crushed red pepper flakes?
The dish has just a mild hint of heat from the pinch of crushed red pepper flakes, which can easily be adjusted to suit your taste by adding more or leaving it out.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a dish that feels both indulgent and effortless—and this One-Pan Chicken and Gnocchi Recipe is just that. Whether you’re feeding a family or treating yourself to a cozy night in, it delivers on flavor, comfort, and simplicity every time. I can’t wait for you to make it and add it to your recipe rotation as one of those dependable, soul-satisfying meals you’ll reach for again and again.
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One-Pan Chicken and Gnocchi Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This one-pan chicken and gnocchi recipe is a comforting, hearty dish featuring tender chicken breasts cooked to golden perfection alongside pillowy gnocchi, sautéed mushrooms, and a creamy, herb-infused sauce. Finished with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses and vibrant baby spinach, it offers a balanced and satisfying meal ready in just 40 minutes, perfect for a busy weeknight.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 1/2 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, divided
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 small shallot, diced
- 8 oz baby bella mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 3 cups packed baby spinach
Liquids & Dairy
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 1/4 cups half and half
- Pinch crushed red pepper flakes
- 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan
Other
- 1 (17-oz) package gnocchi
Instructions
- Season Chicken: Season the chicken breasts generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides to prepare them for cooking.
- Sear Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 4 minutes per side until they develop a golden crust. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Shallots and Mushrooms: Reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Add the diced shallot and sliced baby bella mushrooms, cooking for about 5 minutes until they are golden and tender.
- Add Garlic and Herbs: Stir in the minced garlic, fresh thyme leaves, and dried oregano, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Deglaze and Build Sauce: Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, scraping up all the browned bits from the bottom of the pan to add flavor. Add the half and half along with a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste and bring the sauce to a simmer.
- Add Gnocchi and Chicken: Stir in the gnocchi and return the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet.
- Simmer Until Cooked Through: Let the mixture simmer gently for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the gnocchi to cook and the chicken to reach an internal temperature of 165°F, ensuring it is fully cooked.
- Remove Chicken Temporarily: Take the chicken breasts out of the skillet again and set aside temporarily to make room for the cheese and spinach.
- Incorporate Cheeses: Stir in shredded mozzarella and freshly grated Parmesan cheese until they melt smoothly into the sauce, enriching its creaminess.
- Add Spinach: Add the packed baby spinach to the skillet and stir until it wilts evenly into the cheesy sauce.
- Slice and Return Chicken: Slice the cooked chicken breasts and return them to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy gnocchi mixture.
- Final Seasoning and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately while warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute half and half with heavy cream for a richer sauce or with whole milk for a lighter version.
- Baby bella mushrooms can be replaced with cremini or button mushrooms if preferred.
- Use fresh herbs if available for brighter flavor, though dried herbs work well too.
- Ensure the gnocchi is cooked through by simmering gently; overcooking can make it mushy.
- Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
