If you’re craving a bowl of pure comfort, this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Recipe promises cozy vibes and big flavor in every bite. Imagine fluffy potato gnocchi and juicy chicken nestled in a silky, herb-flecked cream sauce—plus a handful of veggies for good measure! It’s a 30-minute wonder meal with Italian inspiration, heartiness to spare, and a medley of textures that transform a busy weeknight into something special. Whether you’re new to one-pan dinners or searching for a bit of easy dinnertime magic, this dish has you covered from first spoonful to last.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Recipe lies in its simple, accessible ingredients—each one playing a key role in the final flavor, texture, or irresistible creaminess. Lean chicken gives wonderful substance, while aromatics, fresh veggies, and a splash of half-and-half round out the profile. Here’s what you’ll need and how every ingredient brings a little something extra to the table:
- Olive oil: Adds a fruity, rich note while helping brown the chicken to perfection.
- Butter: Builds flavor and helps create that signature velvety sauce base.
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Tender, protein-packed, and the perfect bite-sized star of the meal.
- Salt and pepper: The essential seasonings—don’t skimp; they bring everything into balance.
- Small onion: Sautéed for savory depth; it melts right into the sauce as it cooks.
- Garlic: Aromatic and bold, garlic gives an unmistakable backbone to this comforting dish.
- Dried thyme: Whispers an earthy aroma into every bite and balances the richness.
- Italian seasoning: A shortcut for big, herbal flavor; you’ll taste hints of basil, oregano, and more.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): A touch of heat to brighten up the creaminess—add more or less as you like.
- Baby spinach: Wilts perfectly into the sauce, adding pop of green and a nutritional bump.
- Shredded carrots: Sweet, colorful, and surprisingly essential for their gentle crunch.
- Half-and-half or heavy cream: Creates that dreamy, lick-the-spoon sauce.
- Low-sodium chicken broth: Rounds out the flavors without overwhelming the dish; low-sodium lets you control the seasoning.
- Potato gnocchi: Light pillows of goodness that soak up all the creamy sauce without falling apart.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Melts in for nutty, salty depth and extra silkiness.
- Chopped parsley: The fresh, herbal finish that makes it all pop on the table.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken
Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper—this is your first chance to lock in bold flavor. Add them to the hot pan and let the edges get golden as they cook through, about 5 to 6 minutes. Once they’re cooked and beautifully browned, transfer them out of the pan and set aside (they’ll return later to finish in all that creamy glory).
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Spices
In the now-empty pan, toss in the diced onion and let it soften for a few minutes to build the flavor base. Once the onion is translucent, stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, Italian seasoning, and a dash of red pepper flakes if you like a little warmth. Let everything sizzle for 30 seconds until the kitchen smells absolutely irresistible—this quick step infuses all those oils with herby, garlicky savoriness.
Step 3: Add Veggies and Liquids
Now it’s time for color and creaminess! Add the baby spinach and shredded carrots straight into the pan. Pour in the half-and-half and chicken broth, giving everything a gentle stir. As the mixture comes to a simmer, you’ll see the veggies start to wilt and the sauce beginning to thicken—it’s the foundation for the signature richness of this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Recipe.
Step 4: Cook the Gnocchi
Gently stir in the potato gnocchi. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes (they’ll float to the surface when they’re ready), absorbing flavor and thickening the sauce slightly. If you’ve never cooked gnocchi this way, you’re in for a treat—they become fluffy but not mushy, taking on all the savory goodness from the simmering cream and broth.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Slide the cooked chicken back into the skillet and sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese. Let the pot bubble for another 1 to 2 minutes as everything melds and reaches absolute peak creaminess. When the Chicken Gnocchi is piping hot and velvety, top with fresh, chopped parsley and serve up generous spoonfuls. Your Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Recipe is ready to wow the crowd!
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Recipe
Garnishes
To make every bowl of this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Recipe look and taste restaurant-worthy, don’t forget the finishing touches! A flurry of freshly chopped parsley brings bright color and a fresh, herbal note that cuts the richness. You can also sprinkle on a little extra Parmesan or a crack of black pepper for even more savory depth.
Side Dishes
Since the dish is rich and creamy, pair it with a crisp green salad tossed with a simple vinaigrette or some roasted veggies for balance. A basket of warm, crusty bread is always welcome—perfect for sopping up every last drop of luxurious sauce. A glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon makes it feel like a special night in.
Creative Ways to Present
This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Recipe turns heads when served family-style in a big, rustic bowl for everyone to dig in. You can also scoop it into individual ramekins for a dinner party feel, or nestle a portion inside a hollowed-out sourdough bread bowl for an utterly decadent twist. However you plate it, the creamy sauce and pops of color make it a showstopper.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, transfer the cooled Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Recipe into an airtight container. Stash it in the fridge where it’ll keep well for up to three days. The flavors actually get bolder as they sit, making for a cozy and convenient meal the next day.
Freezing
While this dish is best fresh, you can freeze portions: let the cooked recipe cool, then pack into freezer-safe containers. It’ll keep for up to two months. Just know the gnocchi may soften a bit upon thawing, but the overall flavors remain comforting and delicious.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to re-loosen the sauce if it’s thickened. You can also microwave in short bursts, stirring between each to keep everything creamy and prevent overcooking the gnocchi.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie or leftover chicken?
Absolutely! If you have cooked chicken on hand, simply skip the initial sauté step. Add your shredded or diced cooked chicken when the recipe calls to return the chicken to the pan for that last simmer in the creamy sauce.
What type Main Course
Pillow-soft potato gnocchi (the kind you find in the refrigerator or pasta aisle) work beautifully here. Shelf-stable, frozen, or homemade potato gnocchi all give satisfying texture, but avoid cauliflower or gluten-free types unless you’re experienced with their cooking times.
Does this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Recipe work with other vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to swap in seasonal veggies like peas, kale, or even diced zucchini. The sauce is forgiving and soaks in any fresh flavors you toss its way, making this recipe endlessly adaptable to what’s in your fridge.
How can I thicken the sauce?
If you like your sauce extra thick, simmer for a few additional minutes, or stir in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water towards the end of cooking. Remember, the sauce continues to thicken as it cools, especially with leftovers.
Is this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Recipe kid-friendly?
It’s a family favorite! The mild flavors, tender gnocchi, and creamy sauce are super appealing to kids. If you’re serving little ones, skip the red pepper flakes and finely chop the vegetables to blend in easily.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Recipe is a little bit of weeknight magic—fast, satisfying, and sure to become a repeat request at your table. Give it a try, and bring a touch of Italian-inspired comfort to your kitchen tonight!
Print
Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in this creamy chicken gnocchi recipe that is bursting with flavor and comfort. Tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a luscious cream sauce make this dish a standout favorite for any night of the week.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup baby spinach
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 1/2 cups half-and-half or heavy cream
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 pound potato gnocchi
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet, cook seasoned chicken until golden. Set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: Sauté onion, garlic, thyme, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Add spinach, carrots, half-and-half, and chicken broth. Simmer.
- Add Gnocchi: Stir in gnocchi, cook until tender. Return chicken, mix in Parmesan. Simmer until creamy.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley and enjoy!
Notes
- For a thicker sauce, simmer longer or add cornstarch mixed with water.
- Leftovers thicken when reheated with a splash of broth or cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
