Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi: A Cozy Comfort Food Delight

Name: Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds); 2 cups fresh gnocchi; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 2 cups fresh spinach; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme); Salt and pepper to taste

Published: August 13, 2025

by mimi

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This creamy chicken and gnocchi recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze
The flavor profile balances rich creaminess with savory herbs for an irresistible taste
Visually appealing, this dish features vibrant colors that elevate any dinner table
Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to various dietary preferences or ingredient swaps

Ingredients for Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts will work perfectly; adjust based on your crowd size.
Fresh Garlic: Use firm cloves for optimal flavor; fresh garlic makes everything better!
Gnocchi: Opt for store-bought or homemade; both options deliver deliciousness.
Heavy Cream: Adds that luscious creaminess; don’t skimp here—it’s what dreams are made of!
Chicken Broth: A flavorful base for the sauce; low-sodium is best to control salt levels.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds color and nutrients; it wilts beautifully into the sauce.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan brings saltiness and depth; go ahead and sprinkle generously!

For the Sauce:

Dried Italian Herbs: A mix of basil, oregano, and thyme works wonders in enhancing flavor.
Salt and Pepper: Always essential to taste; season generously but remember you can adjust!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi

How to Make Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi

Cooking this creamy chicken and gnocchi dish can be an adventure! Let’s break it down into easy steps.

Start by cooking the chicken. Heat some olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet until shimmering. Add the seasoned chicken breasts, cooking them until golden brown on both sides—about six minutes per side—until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Next, remove the chicken from the skillet and allow it to rest while you sauté the aromatic garlic. In the same pan, toss in minced garlic and cook until fragrant—just about one minute will do! The smell should be heavenly.

Now it’s time for gnocchi! Add your gnocchi directly into the skillet along with chicken broth. Stir well to combine everything. Bring it all to a gentle simmer while stirring occasionally until the gnocchi floats—this means they’re perfectly cooked!

Let’s add that luscious cream! Pour in heavy cream while stirring continuously until combined. The mixture should thicken slightly after about five minutes over low heat—keep an eye on it because no one likes burnt edges!

Toss in fresh spinach next! Stir until wilted down—this usually only takes about two minutes. You’ll get that beautiful green color popping through your creamy concoction.

Finally, slice up your rested chicken breasts and add them back into the skillet along with grated Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together until well combined—the cheese should melt beautifully into your sauce adding depth.

Taste-test it! Adjust seasoning with salt or pepper if necessary. Serve immediately while it’s warm and bubbling—a dish like this deserves all the attention at dinnertime!

And there you have it: creamy chicken and gnocchi that’s not just comforting but also bursting with flavor! Enjoy every bite as you savor not only the meal but also those wonderful moments shared around your dining table!

You Must Know

This creamy chicken and gnocchi dish offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures
It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience!
The comforting creaminess combined with tender chicken and pillowy gnocchi creates a dinner that feels like a warm hug

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken until golden brown, then set it aside. In the same pan, sauté garlic and onions, add your broth, and bring it to a simmer. Finally, toss in the gnocchi and finish with cream for a heavenly sauce.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the chicken for shrimp or even vegetables for a vegetarian option. You can add spinach for extra nutrition or sprinkle some Parmesan cheese on top for a flavor boost. Experiment with spices like Italian seasoning or crushed red pepper!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer—165°F is your magic number
Don’t rush the sauce; let it simmer to deepen flavors
Always taste before serving; sometimes, all it needs is a pinch of salt!

Sharing this creamy chicken and gnocchi recipe reminds me of that one dinner party where my friends practically licked their plates clean! Their compliments made my heart swell with joy, proving how food truly brings people together.

FAQs:

What ingredients do I need for Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi?

To create a delicious creamy chicken and gnocchi dish, gather boneless chicken breasts, fresh gnocchi, heavy cream, garlic, spinach, and chicken broth. You will also need olive oil, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to enhance the flavors. Feel free to add grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of richness. This combination of ingredients ensures a well-rounded meal that is both comforting and satisfying.

How long does it take to cook Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi?

Cooking creamy chicken and gnocchi typically takes about 30 to 40 minutes. Start by sautéing the chicken until golden brown. After that, you’ll cook the gnocchi in boiling water while preparing the sauce. Combining everything together takes just a few more minutes. This quick preparation makes it an ideal weeknight dinner option when you’re short on time but still want a hearty meal.

Can I make Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare creamy chicken and gnocchi ahead of time! Cook the dish as directed but consider undercooking the gnocchi slightly to prevent them from becoming mushy upon reheating. Store the dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Is Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi suitable for freezing?

Creamy chicken and gnocchi can be frozen, but it’s important to note that the texture may change once thawed. For best results, freeze the dish without adding cream or cooked gnocchi. Instead, freeze the cooked chicken and sauce separately. When you are ready to enjoy your meal again, thaw and combine with freshly cooked gnocchi before adding cream for a delightful experience.

Conclusion for Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi:

In summary, creamy chicken and gnocchi is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with fluffy gnocchi in a rich sauce. The recipe is easy to follow and perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. Remember to use fresh ingredients for optimal flavor and texture. With its quick preparation time and comforting taste, this meal will surely become a favorite in your home. Enjoy experimenting with variations like adding vegetables or different spices!