After an exhausting day, there’s nothing quite like the sight of a warm, inviting meal simmering away on the stove. That’s where my One-Pan Creamy Chicken & Gnocchi comes in—a comforting dish that is effortlessly put together and bursts with flavor. I discovered this recipe during a busy week when takeout felt like the only option, but my heart craved something homemade. With just one pan and a handful of simple ingredients, dinner can transform into something celebratory rather than just a routine meal.
Imagine the luscious cream blending with savory chicken and tender gnocchi, all while the vibrant cherry tomatoes and fresh spinach add a pop of color. This dish doesn’t just promise a satisfying dinner; it’s a hassle-free experience that will impress your family and friends alike. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s the perfect solution for those who want to break free from fast food’s grasp while still enjoying the rich flavors of home cooking. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will surely become a weeknight favorite!
Why You'll Love This One-Pan Creamy Chicken & Gnocchi
- This One-Pan Creamy Chicken & Gnocchi is a breeze to prepare, making weeknight cooking a stress-free affair.
- The rich combination of flavors from the creamy sauce, tender chicken, and soft gnocchi creates a dish that’s irresistibly delicious.
- Its versatility allows for easy customization—feel free to add your favorite veggies or swap the protein based on what you have on hand.
- With everything cooked in just one pan, cleanup is a snap, leaving you more time to relax after a delightful meal.
One-Pan Creamy Chicken & Gnocchi Ingredients
• Get ready to indulge in a creamy delight!
For the Chicken
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – the lean protein that cooks quickly and stays juicy.
• Olive oil – enhances flavor and helps to achieve that golden sear on the chicken.
• Salt and pepper – essential seasonings that elevates the taste of your chicken.
• Garlic powder – adds a savory depth without the hassle of fresh garlic.
• Italian seasoning – a fragrant blend that brings the essence of Italy to your dish.
For the Sauce
• Cherry tomatoes – their sweetness balances the richness of the cream; feel free to substitute with diced regular tomatoes.
• Baby spinach – adds a nutritional boost and vibrant color, along with a mild, fresh taste.
• Heavy cream – makes the sauce luxuriously creamy; for a lighter version, consider using half-and-half.
• Chicken broth – provides depth of flavor; use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
• Grated Parmesan cheese – enriches the sauce and brings a lovely nutty flavor; fresh cheese will melt better!
For the Gnocchi
• Gnocchi – these potato dumplings become tender and flavorful in the creamy sauce, making this recipe the star of your weeknight meals!
For Garnish
• Fresh basil (optional) – brightens up the dish with a fresh, herbaceous finish.
With these One-Pan Creamy Chicken & Gnocchi ingredients ready to go, you’re just moments away from crafting a meal that your loved ones will ask for time and time again!
How to Make One-Pan Creamy Chicken & Gnocchi
-
Heat the Oil: Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. This step is essential to achieving that perfect golden-seared chicken!
-
Season the Chicken: Generously season your chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Add them to the skillet and cook for about 5–7 minutes, until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
-
Cook the Tomatoes: In the same pan, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes. Sauté these for about 2–3 minutes, allowing them to soften and release their natural sweetness.
-
Add the Spinach: Stir in the baby spinach, cooking just until it wilts—about 1–2 minutes. This step adds a bright, fresh color to the dish.
-
Mix the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring everything together. Bring this lovely mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
-
Combine Gnocchi and Chicken: Add the gnocchi and return the cooked chicken to the pan. Cook for an additional 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gnocchi is tender and cooked through.
-
Finish with Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed—this makes your dish truly shine!
-
Garnish and Serve: If you’d like, garnish with fresh basil and serve warm. Your homemade meal is now ready to be enjoyed!
Optional: Sprinkle extra Parmesan on top for an even cheesier finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These One-Pan Creamy Chicken & Gnocchi are perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a quick, satisfying meal! You can prep the chicken and season it (up to 24 hours) in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. The cherry tomatoes and spinach can also be chopped ahead of time and refrigerated, ensuring they stay vibrant and delicious. When you’re ready to cook, simply sauté the chicken as directed, add the vegetables, and follow the remaining steps to finish the dish. This way, you’ll have a comforting dinner on the table with minimal effort, just as delicious as if you made it fresh!
How to Store and Freeze One-Pan Creamy Chicken & Gnocchi
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or broth to restore creaminess.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. It’s best to freeze before adding cheese to maintain texture.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a bit of liquid if needed to prevent drying out.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving One-Pan Creamy Chicken & Gnocchi at room temperature for more than 2 hours to maintain food safety.
One-Pan Creamy Chicken & Gnocchi Variations
Feel free to put your personal spin on this lovely dish with these easy and delicious swaps or additions!
-
Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a rich, creamy texture without the dairy. Your guests will appreciate the subtle hint of coconut in each bite.
-
Vegetarian: Swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. This hearty version will still satisfy, bringing wonderful earthy flavors to the mix!
-
Extra Veggie Boost: Add in some chopped bell peppers or zucchini during the sautéing phase. Their sweetness and crunch will elevate the dish, making it even more colorful and nutritious.
-
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free gnocchi to make this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive diners. Many brands are available, ensuring everyone can enjoy this creamy comfort food!
-
Spicy Kick: Introduce some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the skillet for a spicy twist. This little addition can elevate the flavor profile and keep things interesting!
-
Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary in place of Italian seasoning. Each herb brings a new layer of fragrance and flavor to delight your senses.
-
Nutty Flavor: Add a handful of toasted pine nuts or walnuts before serving for a delightful crunch. This twist not only enhances the texture but also enriches the dish with extra flavor depth.
Explore these variations to create the ultimate personalized One-Pan Creamy Chicken & Gnocchi experience that resonates with your unique taste!
What to Serve with One-Pan Creamy Chicken & Gnocchi?
Imagine the warmth of a joyful family dinner, where comfort food steals the show and every bite is a memory waiting to happen.
-
Garlic Bread: Its buttery, garlic-infused goodness perfectly complements the creamy richness of the dish, providing fabulous flavor contrasts. A warm loaf, fresh from the oven, makes a cozy addition to your meal.
-
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers caramelize beautifully in the oven. Their sweetness balances the savory notes in the chicken and gnocchi, adding color and nutrition to your plate.
-
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, tangy dressing, and crunchy croutons create a delightful textural balance. The freshness and light dressing offer a refreshing contrast to your creamy main dish.
-
Parmesan Crusted Asparagus: The earthy flavor of asparagus paired with a crispy, cheesy topping offers a satisfying crunch. It not only lifts the entire meal but also adds a vibrant green touch to your table.
-
Lemon Sorbet: A light and refreshing dessert is a perfect palate cleanser after such a rich main course. The zing of lemon will brighten your evening, leaving everyone smiling.
-
Pineapple Pudding: This creamy, tropical dessert brings a delightful sweetness to finish off your dinner. Its contrasting flavors are the perfect ending note to a comforting meal.
-
Sparkling Water or Wine: A glass of chilled sparkling water adds a refreshing touch, while a crisp white wine enhances the creamy flavors of the dish. Both offer a touch of elegance and can elevate your dining experience.
Each of these pairings beautifully complements the One-Pan Creamy Chicken & Gnocchi, transforming your mealtime into a delightful occasion full of flavor and cherished moments.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making One-Pan Creamy Chicken & Gnocchi, always ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken to achieve that perfect golden sear.
- A common mistake is overcrowding the pan, which prevents the chicken from browning properly, so cook in batches if necessary.
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider marinating the chicken in olive oil, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Timing is crucial; keep an eye on the gnocchi during the last few minutes to avoid overcooking, which can make them mushy.
- Always taste your sauce before serving to adjust the seasoning perfectly.
One-Pan Creamy Chicken & Gnocchi Recipe FAQs
What kind of chicken is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this One-Pan Creamy Chicken & Gnocchi. They cook quickly and stay tender, soaking up all the delicious flavors. If you’re looking for a change, boneless, skinless thighs could also work beautifully, adding a richer flavor.
How should I store leftovers of this dish?
To keep your dish fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you can, separate the gnocchi from the creamy sauce as this helps maintain the texture. When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, just reheat on low heat, possibly adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to bring back the sauce’s lusciousness!
Can I freeze One-Pan Creamy Chicken & Gnocchi?
Very! You can freeze this delightful dish for up to 2 months. Once it has cooled completely, transfer it to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little chicken broth to revive that creamy texture.
What should I do if the sauce is too thick?
If your sauce turns out thicker than you’d like, don’t fret! Simply whisk in a bit more chicken broth or some heavy cream until it reaches your desired consistency. This is a common situation, and adjusting with liquid will keep the dish creamy and delicious.
Are there any dietary considerations for this dish?
If you’re mindful of allergies, be aware that this recipe contains dairy, specifically heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Feel free to substitute with non-dairy options like coconut cream and nutritional yeast for a vegan spin. Additionally, since it includes chicken, it’s not suitable for vegetarians, but you could always opt for chickpeas or a hearty vegetable for a meat-free alternative.
What should I do if I can’t find gnocchi?
No worries at all! If gnocchi is not available, you can use small pasta shapes like fusilli or penne. Cook it separately according to package instructions and then toss it in during the final steps of the recipe. It’ll be a tasty twist that still captures the essence of this dish!
One-Pan Creamy Chicken & Gnocchi
Ingredients
- 1 pound Boneless, skinless chicken breasts Cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil For cooking
- to taste Salt For seasoning
- to taste Pepper For seasoning
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup Cherry tomatoes Halved
- 2 cups Baby spinach
- 1 cup Heavy cream
- 1 cup Chicken broth
- 1 pound Gnocchi
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan cheese
- to taste Fresh basil Optional, for garnish
Method
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Add to the skillet and cook for 5–7 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the same pan and cook for 2–3 minutes until they start to soften.
- Stir in the baby spinach and cook until wilted, about 1–2 minutes.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the gnocchi and return the cooked chicken to the pan. Cook for 5–7 minutes until the gnocchi is tender, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Garnish with fresh basil if desired and serve warm.
Leave a Comment