If you are searching for a soul-satisfying dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Recipe is exactly what your dinner table needs. Bursting with tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, vibrant spinach, and a luscious sun-dried tomato pesto sauce, this recipe comes together in just 20 minutes yet offers layers of flavor and comfort in every bite. It’s one of those meals that strikes the perfect balance between indulgent and wholesome, making it an instant family favorite and a delightful way to impress dinner guests without breaking a sweat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Recipe plays a key role, from the hearty chicken that adds protein to the gnocchi’s indulgent softness. Together, they create a harmony of tastes and textures that’s simple to assemble but feels wonderfully sophisticated.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed: The star protein for tender, juicy bites throughout the dish.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors and brings out the best in the chicken and sauce.
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a mild kick to balance the creaminess.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for searing the chicken to a golden perfection.
- 1 cup heavy cream, room temperature: Gives the sauce its signature richness and velvety texture.
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the sauce flavorful without overwhelming saltiness.
- ¼ cup freshly shredded Parmesan cheese: Brings a sharp, nutty depth to the creamy sauce.
- ¼ cup sun-dried tomato pesto: Provides a beautiful burst of tangy, savory flavor and a gorgeous color contrast.
- 1 pound gnocchi (1 package): Soft, pillowy potato dumplings that soak up the sauce beautifully.
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach: Adds a fresh, healthy element and a pop of vibrant green.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Begin by seasoning the cubed chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper—the simplest step that makes all the difference in flavor. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the chicken pieces, cooking them until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This ensures they are perfectly cooked—juicy with a slight golden crust. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside; don’t clean the skillet yet because the flavorful bits left behind will enrich your sauce.
Step 2: Make the Sauce and Cook Gnocchi
Using the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to lift all the tasty browned bits from the chicken. Blend in the freshly shredded Parmesan cheese and sun-dried tomato pesto, which will transform the sauce into a luxuriously creamy and aromatic base. Add the gnocchi to the skillet—these soft dumplings will cook right in the sauce, absorbing all those wonderful flavors. Cover the skillet and let everything simmer gently for about 5 minutes, until the gnocchi puff up and become tender.
Step 3: Add Chicken and Spinach
Now it’s time to reunite the chicken with the sauce and gnocchi, stirring gently to combine. Toss in the fresh baby spinach and let it wilt for about 2 minutes. This final step adds vibrant color and freshness, perfectly balancing out the richness of the sauce. The spinach melts down just enough to be tender yet still bright and nutritious. Your creamy masterpiece is now ready to delight!
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this dish even more, consider sprinkling extra freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top—it melts slightly over the warm gnocchi, adding a nice cheesy layer. A sprinkle of chopped fresh basil or parsley will introduce a fragrant herbal note and a pop of green that looks as good as it tastes. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, crushed red pepper flakes can add a playful spicy kick.
Side Dishes
This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Recipe is rich and filling, so sides should offer balance and texture. A crisp mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast. Roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or broccoli bring vibrant color and essential nutrients. If you want more carbs, a warm crusty baguette is ideal for scooping up the luscious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve the gnocchi in shallow bowls to showcase the sauce pool and garnish beautifully. Layer it with a drizzle of basil oil or a few sun-dried tomatoes on top for added visual flair. You could also portion it into individual ramekins and broil briefly for a bubbly cheese crust, turning this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Recipe into a delightful casserole-style treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The gnocchi will absorb more sauce over time, thickening it, so consider adding a splash of chicken broth or cream when reheating to restore that perfect silky consistency.
Freezing
This dish is best enjoyed fresh because gnocchi’s texture can become mushy after freezing and thawing. However, if you wish to freeze leftovers, portion them into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove with a little extra liquid to revive the sauce.
Reheating
Reheat your Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Recipe slowly over low heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much. Avoid microwaving for best texture, but if you must, cover loosely and stir halfway through heating to ensure even warmth.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking so it cooks evenly. Cube the chicken after thawing and pat it dry to help it sear nicely in the skillet.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and a touch of butter, though the sauce will be less rich and creamy. For dairy-free options, coconut cream works well but will add a slight coconut flavor.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Skip the chicken and add more veggies like mushrooms or artichoke hearts. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it vegetarian-friendly.
What type of gnocchi is best?
Store-bought potato gnocchi works beautifully for this recipe because it cooks quickly and has that soft, pillowy texture that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
Can I prepare parts of this dish ahead of time?
You can cook and cube the chicken in advance and keep it refrigerated for up to two days. The sauce and gnocchi are best made fresh to preserve texture and flavor. Combining everything right before serving yields the best results.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Recipe is like comfort food on steroids, blending luscious creaminess, tender chicken, and delicate gnocchi into one unforgettable meal. It’s quick enough for a weeknight but special enough to impress anyone at your table. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this dish as much as I do—it’s truly a winner every single time!
Print
Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A rich and creamy chicken gnocchi dish featuring tender pieces of chicken breast cooked in a sun-dried tomato pesto cream sauce, combined with pillowy gnocchi and fresh baby spinach for a comforting and flavorful meal ready in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Sauce and Gnocchi
- 1 cup heavy cream, room temperature
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- ¼ cup freshly shredded Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup sun-dried tomato pesto
- 1 pound gnocchi (1 package)
Vegetables
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
Instructions
- Cook Chicken: Season the cubed chicken breasts with kosher salt and ground black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), ensuring the chicken is fully cooked and slightly golden on the outside. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make Sauce and Cook Gnocchi: In the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream and low-sodium chicken broth. Stir in the freshly shredded Parmesan cheese and sun-dried tomato pesto until combined and the sauce starts to simmer. Add the gnocchi to the skillet, cover with a lid, and cook for 5 minutes. This will allow the gnocchi to cook through and absorb the flavors of the sauce.
- Add Chicken and Spinach: Stir the cooked chicken pieces back into the skillet along with the fresh baby spinach. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spinach is wilted and everything is evenly heated through.
- Serve: Once the spinach has wilted and the sauce has thickened slightly, remove from heat and serve immediately for a warm, creamy meal.
Notes
- Make sure the chicken is cooked thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- Add the spinach last to preserve its freshness and vibrant color.
- Using low-sodium chicken broth allows better control of the saltiness of the dish.
- You can substitute sun-dried tomato pesto with regular pesto or sun-dried tomatoes finely chopped if preferred.
- This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad or garlic bread.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
