This Chicken and Gnocchi recipe is a delightful, comforting dish that combines tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a creamy sauce infused with garlic and herbs. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it brings a touch of Italian cuisine to your table with ease. The harmonious blend of flavors and textures makes this meal not only satisfying but also a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will adore this Chicken and Gnocchi recipe for its incredible flavor and simplicity. The luscious creamy sauce envelops the gnocchi, making each bite a warm embrace of comfort. With minimal prep time and quick cooking, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends. Additionally, this dish is versatile—great for families or when entertaining guests—making it an ideal choice for any occasion. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, which means less mess and easy clean-up!
Tips and Tricks
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality chicken make a world of difference in flavor.
- Sauté the Gnocchi: For a delightful texture contrast, lightly sauté the cooked gnocchi in a bit of olive oil until golden before adding them to the sauce.
- Adjust Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or milk for a creamier finish.
- Add Spinach or Kale: For extra nutrition, toss in some fresh spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prep several components in advance to save time. Cook the chicken and gnocchi ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator for up to three days. Prepare the sauce in advance as well; it can keep in the fridge for up to five days. When ready to serve, simply combine everything in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.
Recipe Variations
- Herb Variations: Swap the thyme for rosemary or basil for a different flavor profile.
- Protein Swaps: Use shrimp or turkey instead of chicken for a delightful twist.
- Creaminess Factor: Add cream cheese or mascarpone for an even richer sauce.
- Cooking Method: Try baking the assembled dish topped with cheese for a bubbly, golden finish.
How to Serve
Serve the Chicken and Gnocchi hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Pair it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. For presentation, consider serving it in a large bowl, allowing guests to help themselves, or in elegant individual servings for a more formal touch.
Pairing Suggestions
For drink pairings, a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or a light-bodied red such as Chianti complements the dish beautifully. If you prefer cocktails, a refreshing spritz or a classic gin and tonic would work well. As for desserts, a light lemon sorbet or a classic tiramisu would be the perfect way to finish off this meal.
How to Store
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze the Chicken and Gnocchi in a suitable container for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce.
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Pot for boiling gnocchi
- Measuring cups and spoons
If you don’t have a large skillet, a Dutch oven can serve as a great alternative for this recipe.
Dietary Adaptations
- Vegan: Substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu, and use coconut milk or cashew cream instead of heavy cream.
- Dairy-Free: Replace cream with a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream or almond milk and omit cheese.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free gnocchi and check the chicken broth for gluten-free certification.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the spring, add in fresh asparagus or peas for a pop of color and flavor. In the fall, consider incorporating roasted butternut squash for a seasonal twist. During winter, root vegetables like carrots or parsnips can be added for heartiness.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use store-bought gnocchi? Yes, store-bought gnocchi is convenient and works wonderfully in this recipe.
- How long does the chicken need to cook? Cook chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked through.
- What can I substitute for heavy cream? Whole milk or a plant-based cream alternative can be used for a lighter version.
Chicken And Gnocchi
This Chicken and Gnocchi recipe is a delightful, comforting dish that combines tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a creamy sauce infused with garlic and herbs.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
- Cook the Gnocchi: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer.
- Combine: Add the cooked chicken and gnocchi back into the skillet. Sprinkle in thyme and stir gently to combine. Allow to simmer for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, and serve hot.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 466Total Fat: 33gSaturated Fat: 16gTrans Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 14gCholesterol: 167mgSodium: 660mgCarbohydrates: 3gFiber: 0gSugar: 2gProtein: 38g
Chickenrecipes.blog, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Making this Chicken and Gnocchi recipe is not just about preparing a meal; it’s about creating a comforting experience that brings joy to the table. With its rich flavors and delightful textures, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Embrace the process, enjoy the delicious results, and remember that cooking should always be a joyful adventure! Happy cooking!
