Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi

This Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi recipe is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a rich cream sauce in under thirty minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, this meal offers comfort and flavor in every bite, making it a go-to favorite for lunch or dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: You can whip this dish up in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Rich and Flavorful: The combination of creamy sauce, juicy chicken, and earthy spinach creates a mouthwatering experience.
• One-Pot Meal: Less cleanup! All the magic happens in one skillet, allowing you to enjoy your meal without a pile of dishes.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize the recipe with your favorite vegetables or proteins for endless variations.
• Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to both kids and adults, making it ideal for family mealtime.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools. Having the right equipment will make cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large deep skillet
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Large deep skillet: Provides enough space to cook the chicken and gnocchi without overcrowding, ensuring even cooking.
• Sharp knife: Aids in quickly dicing chicken and chopping vegetables, saving time during prep.

Ingredients

This delicious dish is full of pillowy gnocchi drenched in a rich buttery cream sauce, with pops of juicy chicken and earthy spinach. Plus it’s so easy, you can make it in under thirty minutes!

For the Chicken

• 1.25 lbs chicken thighs (4 to 5 thighs) ($4.23)
• 1 Tbsp Italian Seasoning ($0.30)
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika ($0.05)
• 1/2 tsp salt ($0.04)
• 1/4 tsp pepper ($0.02)

For Cooking

• 2 Tbsp cooking oil ($0.08)
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced ($0.32)
• 2 garlic cloves ($0.11)
• 2 Tbsp salted butter, divided ($0.30)

For the Gnocchi

• 1 lb potato gnocchi (dry) ($1.13)
• 2 cups fresh spinach ($0.60)

For the Cream Sauce

• 1 cup vegetable broth ($0.08)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream ($0.71)
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese ($0.44)

How to Make Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Dice the chicken thighs into 2-inch pieces.
2. Add the chicken to a bowl and top with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix until combined.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Place a large deep skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the cooking oil; once shimmering, add the seasoned chicken.
3. Cook undisturbed until well browned on one side (about 3 minutes).
4. Stir to brown on the other side (about 3 more minutes).
5. Remove the cooked chicken from the pan while leaving the fat.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

1. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet.
2. Sauté until onions have softened (about 2 minutes).

Step 4: Brown Gnocchi

1. Add gnocchi and 1 tablespoon of salted butter to the skillet.
2. Brown for about 2 minutes.

Step 5: Add Spinach and Broth

1. Add fresh spinach and vegetable broth to the skillet.
2. Cover the pan; cook for 1-2 minutes until spinach wilts.

Step 6: Create Cream Sauce

1. Stir in heavy cream along with remaining tablespoon of salted butter.
2. Heat until butter melts; do not let it boil.

Step 7: Combine Ingredients

1. Remove from heat; stir in Parmesan cheese until melted creating a velvety sauce.

Step 8: Final Touches

1. Return cooked chicken to skillet.
2. Mix gently with gnocchi and sauce; garnish with parsley if desired.

Enjoy your homemade Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi

Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether you’re looking for something light or hearty, these serving suggestions will make your meal even more delightful.

With Fresh Herbs

• Parsley: Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a burst of freshness.
• Basil: Add fresh basil leaves for a fragrant aroma and flavor.

Accompanied by Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls can complement the dish nicely, perfect for mopping up sauce.

Over a Salad

• Mixed Greens: Serve over a bed of mixed greens for added crunch and nutrition.
• Caesar Salad: Pair with Caesar salad for a classic combination that balances flavors.

With Extra Cheese

• Grated Parmesan: Top with additional grated Parmesan for a cheesier experience.
• Mozzarella: Melted mozzarella can add a gooey texture that many will love.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi

To achieve the ultimate Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi, keep these tips in mind. They will help you create an even more delicious dish that everyone will rave about.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and organic spinach enhance the flavor significantly.
• Don’t Overcook the Gnocchi: Cook gnocchi until they are just tender; overcooking can make them mushy.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and spices according to your preference before serving.
• Add Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon juice brightens the flavors and adds freshness to the dish.
• Choose High-Quality Cream: Using high-quality heavy cream makes the sauce richer and more decadent.
• Cook Chicken Properly: Ensure the chicken is cooked through but not dry; juicy chicken enhances the overall dish.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi

Pairing side dishes with Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutritional value without overpowering flavors.
2. Roasted Asparagus: The earthy taste of roasted asparagus complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
3. Caprese Salad: A fresh Caprese salad with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil offers a refreshing contrast.
4. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide comfort and pair well with any sauce.
5. Sautéed Zucchini: Quick sautéed zucchini is light yet flavorful, making it an excellent choice.
6. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts add crunchiness that contrasts nicely with soft gnocchi.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi can be simple, but common mistakes might lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked through but still juicy.
• Not Using Fresh Ingredients: Stale or old ingredients can affect flavor. Always choose fresh spinach and quality chicken for the best taste.
• Skipping the Seasoning: A lack of seasoning can make the dish bland. Don’t skip the Italian seasoning and spices; they elevate the overall flavor.
• Ignoring Cooking Times: Each step has a specific timing for a reason. Follow cooking times closely to ensure everything cooks evenly.
• Using Too Much Cream: While creamy sauces are delicious, too much cream can overwhelm the dish. Stick to the recipe for balance.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi

• Cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Reheat over low heat with a splash of broth or cream to maintain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi:

Can I use different types of chicken?

You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts or even rotisserie chicken for convenience.

How do I add more vegetables?

Feel free to add mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini along with the spinach for added nutrition and flavor.

Is this dish gluten-free?

The traditional potato gnocchi is not gluten-free. Look for gluten-free gnocchi options if needed.

Can I make Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. If making in advance, store properly as mentioned above.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi recipe is not only quick but also incredibly satisfying. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it a perfect comfort food option. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the creaminess level. Give this dish a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!