About This Recipe
A comforting one-pan dish featuring tender chicken and soft gnocchi in a creamy, flavorful sauce.
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts, cubed
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp minced garlic
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/3 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
- 1 (16-ounce) package gnocchi
Kitchen Tools
Instructions
Chef's Tips
- Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides a more robust flavor than pre-minced garlic.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the skillet, which can lower the temperature and result in unevenly cooked chicken.
- Use High-Quality Gnocchi: Opt for good-quality gnocchi, preferably potato gnocchi, for the best texture and flavor.
- Garnish Generously: Fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or chives add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Burning the Garlic: Burnt garlic can make the sauce bitter. Sauté the garlic over low heat and watch it carefully.
- Overcooking the Gnocchi: Overcooked gnocchi can become mushy. Cook the gnocchi until it floats to the surface and is tender but still slightly firm.
- Not Seasoning Properly: Taste the sauce as you go and adjust the seasoning as needed. Salt, pepper, and herbs can make a big difference in the final flavor.
Variations
Pesto Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi
Add 2-3 tablespoons of pesto to the creamy sauce for a vibrant green color and a burst of basil flavor.
Spinach and Mushroom Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi
Sauté 1 cup of sliced mushrooms and 2 cups of fresh spinach with the garlic before adding the chicken broth. This adds extra nutrients and a delicious earthy flavor.
Spicy Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi
Increase the amount of red pepper flakes to ½ teaspoon or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.
Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi with Different Cheese
Experiment with different types of cheese in the sauce. Fontina, Gruyere, or Asiago are all great options that add unique flavors.
Storage & Freezing
Refrigerator Storage
Store leftover creamy chicken and gnocchi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Instructions
For longer storage, you can freeze the creamy chicken and gnocchi. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2-3 months for optimal flavor.
Reheating Instructions
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the creamy chicken and gnocchi in a baking dish, cover it with foil, and heat until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl, covered with a lid or microwave-safe wrap. Stir halfway through heating.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed to loosen the sauce.
Conclusion
This creamy chicken and gnocchi recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors that appeals to everyone at the dinner table. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your preferences, making it easy to switch up ingredients while keeping it delicious. Give it a try tonight!
Frequently Asked Questions
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
Yes, store-bought gnocchi works perfectly fine in this recipe.
For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or milk, but the sauce will be less rich.
You can add mushrooms, spinach, peas, or bell peppers to the dish.
Yes, use gluten-free gnocchi and gluten-free flour for dredging the chicken.
I have not tested it in a slow cooker, but it might work. Add all ingredients except gnocchi, and add the gnocchi during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Add a splash of chicken broth to thin the sauce.