Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi is a rich, comforting dish that brings together tender bites of chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a silky, savory cream sauce—all in one skillet. It’s the kind of meal that feels luxurious but is incredibly easy to throw together. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just craving something soul-soothing on a cold night, this recipe is bound to hit the spot. This dish is inspired by the classic flavors of chicken and dumplings, with the soft gnocchi acting as a quicker, more elegant twist. Ready in under 30 minutes and made in one pan, it’s the perfect choice for busy nights when you still want something hearty and satisfying.
What Makes This Dish Special?
This meal is all about comfort and convenience. Gnocchi cooks right in the sauce, soaking up all that rich flavor, while the chicken adds a boost of protein. The creamy base, infused with garlic, Parmesan, and fresh herbs, brings the whole dish together. It’s cozy, creamy, and completely crave-worthy—and it all comes together with minimal cleanup.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (or thighs), diced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 (16 oz) package potato gnocchi
- 1 cup baby spinach (optional)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
1. Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until golden and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Simmer the Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Add the gnocchi, thyme, and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gnocchi is tender and the sauce begins to thicken.
4. Add Chicken and Cheese
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and incorporated into the sauce.
5. Finish with Spinach and Garnish
If using spinach, stir it in during the last minute of cooking until wilted. Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Variations
- Mushroom Gnocchi: Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy twist.
- Lemon Herb: Add a squeeze of lemon juice and fresh herbs like basil or tarragon for brightness.
- Bacon Boost: Stir in crispy bacon for extra smoky flavor.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Add mozzarella or Gruyère for an even creamier finish.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Knife and cutting board
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Nutritional Information (Approx. Per Serving)
- Calories: ~520
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 28g
- Protein: 30g
- Sugar: 3g
Note: Nutrition may vary depending on ingredients used.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of broth or cream.
- Freezing: Not recommended due to the cream and gnocchi texture changes when thawed.
My Cooking Experience
Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi has quickly become one of my favorite weeknight meals. It feels luxurious without being complicated, and the whole family loves it. I often swap in rotisserie chicken for an even quicker version, and it still turns out beautifully. It’s one of those meals that just makes everyone at the table feel cozy and happy.
Conclusion
If you’re craving something creamy, comforting, and ready in a flash, Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi delivers every time. It’s a one-skillet wonder that’s both elegant and easy. Whether you’re cooking for loved ones or treating yourself to something special, this dish is bound to become a staple in your kitchen.
creamy chicken and gnocchi
Ingredients
Method
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until golden and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Add the gnocchi, thyme, and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gnocchi is tender and the sauce begins to thicken.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and incorporated into the sauce.
- If using spinach, stir it in during the last minute of cooking until wilted. Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of broth or cream.
