Hey there, fellow food lover! If you’re on the hunt for a quick and scrumptious meal, my creamy chicken gnocchi recipe is just what you need. This dish is a delightful blend of tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a rich, creamy sauce that brings everything together. What’s fantastic about it is how simple it is to whip up for dinner, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you don’t want to compromise on flavor. Trust me, once you try this easy dinner, it’ll become a beloved staple in your kitchen!
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 1 package gnocchi (16 oz), preferably fresh or frozen
- 2 cups heavy cream, for a rich and velvety sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth, low-sodium for better control of saltiness
- 1 cup fresh spinach, packed and roughly chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved for sweetness and color
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated for optimal melt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced finely to release its aromatic flavor
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, extra virgin for the best taste
- Salt and pepper, to taste, for seasoning the chicken and sauce
How to Prepare Instructions
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
First things first, grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, toss in the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds until fragrant—don’t let it burn, or it’ll turn bitter! Now, add your diced chicken, season with a sprinkle of salt and pepper, and cook until the chicken is nicely browned, around 5-7 minutes. This browning adds so much flavor to the dish, so don’t rush it! After the chicken is golden, pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer gently for about 3-4 minutes, which allows those flavors to meld beautifully.
Cooking the Gnocchi
While the chicken is simmering, bring a separate pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the gnocchi and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 2-3 minutes or until they float to the surface—this means they’re done! Make sure to taste a piece to ensure they’re perfectly tender. When ready, drain the gnocchi and set them aside, but don’t rinse them; we want that lovely starchiness to help the sauce cling!
Final Assembly
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Carefully add the heavy cream to your skillet with the chicken and broth, stirring to combine. Let it come to a gentle boil, and then reduce the heat to low. Add in the cooked gnocchi, folding them gently into the mixture so they’re coated in that luscious sauce. Next, toss in the fresh spinach and cherry tomatoes, stirring until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes soften just a bit—this should only take a minute! Finally, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce, creating that creamy texture we all love. And just like that, your delicious creamy chicken gnocchi is ready to serve!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional values for one serving of my creamy chicken gnocchi recipe. Keep in mind that these are estimates based on standard ingredient brands and can vary slightly depending on what you use:
- Calories: 650
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 30g
This dish not only satisfies your hunger but also packs a good amount of protein to keep you energized! Enjoy every creamy, delicious bite knowing you’re treating yourself to a wholesome meal.
Tips for Success
To really elevate your creamy chicken gnocchi recipe easy dinner, here are a few pro tips! First, consider using fresh herbs like thyme or basil; they add a lovely aromatic flair that brightens the dish. You can also swap out the chicken for shrimp or even sautéed mushrooms for a delightful twist. If you’re looking to lighten things up a bit, try using half-and-half instead of heavy cream—it’ll still be rich but with fewer calories.
Don’t forget to taste as you go! Adjusting the seasoning with a little more salt or fresh cracked pepper can make a huge difference. And if you want an extra pop of flavor, a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can really wake everything up. Lastly, always remember to keep an eye on the gnocchi while cooking; they can go from perfect to mushy in a flash! Happy cooking!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to switch things up, there are plenty of ways to customize my creamy chicken gnocchi recipe! For a delightful twist, try swapping the chicken for shrimp; just sauté them until they’re pink and opaque for a seafood flair. You could also experiment with different vegetables—think roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or even asparagus—just add them in during the final assembly to keep their vibrant colors and textures.
If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, no problem! Simply replace the regular gnocchi with gluten-free gnocchi, which are widely available in stores these days. Another fun idea is to add a splash of white wine to the broth for an extra layer of flavor; just let it simmer a bit to cook off the alcohol. There’s so much room to play with this dish, so let your creativity shine! Enjoy experimenting!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving my creamy chicken gnocchi recipe easy dinner, there are plenty of delightful pairings that can enhance your meal even further! First up, a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is a fantastic choice. The freshness of the greens will balance the richness of the gnocchi, making every bite of your meal feel bright and satisfying.
If you’re in the mood for something a little heartier, consider pairing it with garlic bread or a crusty baguette. Trust me, you’ll want something to soak up that delicious creamy sauce! You could even add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil on top of the gnocchi for an extra pop of color and flavor right before serving.
Another great idea is to serve it alongside roasted vegetables. Think carrots, broccoli, or even Brussels sprouts tossed in olive oil and herbs. Their roasted sweetness and slight crunch will contrast beautifully with the soft, creamy gnocchi.
Lastly, a light dusting of extra Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of balsamic glaze can elevate your dish to restaurant-level presentation. These little touches really bring everything together and make your creamy chicken gnocchi feel special. Enjoy your meal and the compliments that are sure to follow!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? No problem! To store your creamy chicken gnocchi, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to store it for longer, consider freezing it—just make sure to use a freezer-safe container, and it should last for about two months.
When it’s time to reheat, I recommend using the stovetop for the best results. Gently warm it over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to help restore that creamy consistency. Stir occasionally until heated through. Avoid microwaving if you can; it can change the texture of the gnocchi. Enjoy your delicious meal again!
FAQ Section
Can I use store-bought gnocchi for this recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought gnocchi is perfect for this creamy chicken gnocchi recipe easy dinner. It saves time and still delivers that fluffy texture we love. Just follow the package instructions for cooking, and you’ll be set!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While I recommend enjoying this creamy chicken gnocchi fresh for the best texture, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it when you’re ready to serve and toss in the cooked gnocchi and fresh ingredients.
How can I make this dish lighter?
If you want to lighten up your creamy chicken gnocchi recipe easy dinner, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream. You can also opt for less cheese or use a low-fat cheese option. Adding more vegetables can also bulk up the dish while keeping it nutritious!
What can I substitute for chicken?
For a delicious variation, feel free to swap the chicken for shrimp or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option. Both will cook beautifully in the creamy sauce and still deliver that satisfying flavor.
Can I freeze leftover gnocchi?
You can freeze the creamy chicken gnocchi, but it’s best to do so without the gnocchi mixed in. Store the sauce separately in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat the sauce and add freshly cooked gnocchi for the best texture!
For more information on the nutritional benefits of chicken, you can check out this article. If you’re interested in learning about the health benefits of gnocchi, visit this source.
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Creamy chicken gnocchi recipe easy dinner in 30 minutes!
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A simple yet flavorful creamy chicken gnocchi dish perfect for dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 package gnocchi (16 oz)
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup spinach, fresh
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned.
- Stir in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Add heavy cream and bring to a gentle boil.
- In a separate pot, cook gnocchi according to package instructions.
- Add cooked gnocchi to the skillet and mix well.
- Fold in spinach and cherry tomatoes.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Serve warm, garnished with additional cheese if desired.
Notes
- For added flavor, include herbs like thyme or basil.
- Substitute chicken with shrimp for a seafood variation.
- Use gluten-free gnocchi for a gluten-free option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: creamy chicken gnocchi recipe easy dinner
