It is 6pm and your family is hungry. You need a meal that is fast and satisfying. This Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi is the answer to your busy evening. There is something so soothing about a warm bowl of pasta on a chilly evening.
This dish brings together tender chicken and pillowy gnocchi. It all happens in one single skillet. You get a restaurant-quality meal without the heavy cleanup. It is the perfect way to end a long day with a smile.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
This recipe is perfect for those hectic fall nights. It uses simple ingredients you likely have on hand. The sauce is rich, velvety, and full of fresh garlic flavor. It feels like a warm hug in a bowl for your whole family.
Your kids will love the soft texture of the gnocchi. You will love that it takes only 30 minutes to make. It is much faster than waiting for a delivery driver to arrive. Plus, it is much healthier for your family to eat fresh food.
You do not have to spend hours over a hot stove tonight. This meal comes together with very little effort. It is perfect for those days when you feel totally drained. The combination of chicken and gnocchi is very filling and satisfying.
It is the ultimate comfort food for a cozy night in. This meal is budget-friendly and feeds a family of four easily. You can feel good about serving this fresh, home-cooked meal every single week. It will quickly become a new family favorite.
Simple Method
You do not need to boil a separate pot of water. The gnocchi cooks right in the creamy sauce. This saves time and makes the gnocchi extra flavorful. It absorbs all that delicious garlic and heavy cream while it simmers.
Even if you are new to cooking, you can do this. Just follow the steps for a perfectly golden and creamy finish. The process of deglazing the pan adds so much depth to the sauce. It is a stress-free way to feed your family well.
Start by getting your skillet nice and hot. Searing the chicken gives it a lovely golden crust. This locks in all the juices and flavor. When you add the broth, it picks up the brown bits from the pan.
What You Need
Mostly pantry staples and fresh greens make this dish shine. You can find everything at your local grocery store. It is simple and fresh cooking at its best.
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 16 oz potato gnocchi
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Step-by-Step
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, and oregano, then sear until golden and cooked through (approximately 5-7 minutes). Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, scraping the bottom of the pan to deglaze.
- Add the gnocchi directly into the liquid. Simmer for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gnocchi are tender and the sauce has thickened.
- Stir in the baby spinach and parmesan cheese until the spinach is wilted and the cheese is fully incorporated.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, toss to coat thoroughly with the sauce, and serve immediately.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this dish warm in shallow bowls. Sprinkle a little extra parmesan cheese on top for a salty kick. It looks beautiful with a few fresh herb sprigs. The colors are very inviting and look great on the table.
Pair it with a simple side salad or crusty bread. The bread is perfect for soaking up the extra sauce. It makes a wonderful weeknight dinner for the whole family. Set the table and enjoy this meal together tonight.
If you are having a date night, light a candle. This dish feels fancy but is so easy to make. It allows you to spend more time with your favorite person. Enjoy every creamy, garlicky bite of this wonderful meal.
How to Store Leftovers
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to three days. When you are ready to eat, reheat gently on the stove. This keeps the chicken very tender and juicy.
Add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce. This helps keep the texture creamy and smooth. If using a microwave, heat in short intervals. Stir often to ensure even heating throughout the entire dish.
I do not recommend freezing this dish. The cream sauce can change texture when it thaws. It is so quick to make that fresh is always best. Enjoy your leftovers for a quick and easy weekday lunch!
Tips for the Best Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to get a better sear.
- Use fresh garlic cloves for the best aroma and flavor.
- Do not overcook the gnocchi or they may become mushy.
- Grate your own parmesan cheese for a much smoother melt.
- Add the spinach at the very end to keep it bright green.
- Use a large skillet to avoid crowding the chicken pieces.
- For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Double the recipe if you are feeding a larger crowd.
- Ensure the pan is hot before adding the olive oil.
- Season the chicken evenly on all sides for the best taste.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Swap the chicken for shrimp for a quick seafood twist.
- Use kale instead of spinach for a heartier green option.
- Stir in sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of tangy flavor.
- Try gluten-free gnocchi to make this meal gluten-friendly for guests.
- Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
Common Questions
Can I use frozen gnocchi?
Yes, you can use frozen gnocchi directly in the sauce. Just add an extra minute or two to the simmering time. Make sure they are tender before you serve the dish.
What if my sauce is too thick?
Simply stir in a little more chicken broth until it reaches your desired consistency. Do this slowly so the sauce stays rich and creamy. It is very easy to adjust as you go.
Will my kids eat the spinach?
Most kids enjoy the spinach when it is covered in cheese sauce. You can chop it very finely if they are picky eaters. It is a great way to add more greens.
Can I use chicken thighs instead?
Yes, chicken thighs work very well in this recipe. They stay very moist and have great flavor. Just ensure they are cooked through to a safe temperature.
I hope this cozy recipe brightens your fall evenings. Give it a try and let every bite warm you up. Happy cooking!
— Lidia
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 16 oz potato gnocchi
- 4 cloves garlic , minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp sal t
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, and oregano, then sear until golden and cooked through (approximately 5-7 minutes). Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, scraping the bottom of the pan to deglaze.
- Add the gnocchi directly into the liquid. Simmer for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gnocchi are tender and the sauce has thickened.
- Stir in the baby spinach and parmesan cheese until the spinach is wilted and the cheese is fully incorporated.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, toss to coat thoroughly with the sauce, and serve immediately.
