One Pan Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi

If you’re craving comfort food that’s both effortless and incredibly flavorful, this One Pan Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi recipe is about to become your new go-to. Combining tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a rich, luscious cream sauce—all cooked in one skillet—this dish delivers on both taste and simplicity. Perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you want a cozy, satisfying meal without a sink full of dishes. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so special and how easy it is to whip up a dinner everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan convenience: Saves you time and minimizes cleanup for busy evenings.
• Creamy, comforting flavors: The rich sauce perfectly coats the gnocchi and chicken for irresistible taste.
• Quick cooking time: Ready in just about 30 minutes, ideal for weeknight dinners.
• Versatile and adaptable: Easily customize with veggies, spices, or protein swaps.
• Perfect portion size: Serves a family or can be divided for leftovers.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This One Pan Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi recipe relies on simple, familiar ingredients that pack a punch in taste and texture. Each element supports the dish’s comforting qualities, from tender chicken pieces to silky cream sauce and fluffy gnocchi.

• Chicken breasts or thighs: Choose boneless, skinless pieces for quick, even cooking.
• Store-bought potato gnocchi: Pillowy and tender, gnocchi soak up the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Garlic and onions: Aromatics that build depth and savory richness.
• Heavy cream or half-and-half: Creates the luscious, velvety sauce that ties everything together.
• Chicken broth: Adds moisture and subtle savory flavor without overpowering.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty kick to the sauce for extra indulgence.
• Fresh spinach or kale: Optional but recommended for a nutritious pop of color and freshness.
• Olive oil or butter: For searing the chicken and sautéing aromatics with rich flavor.
• Salt, pepper, and dried herbs: Fundamentals for seasoning and enhancing every bite.

Variations for One Pan Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi

Don’t hesitate to make this dish your own! The One Pan Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi recipe is wonderfully adaptable to suit your pantry, dietary preferences, or cravings.

• Swap the protein: Use turkey, shrimp, or even tofu for a different protein boost.
• Add vegetables: Mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or bell peppers can easily mix in for more color and nutrition.
• Use dairy alternatives: Coconut cream or cashew cream works well for a dairy-free version.
• Spice it up: Toss in red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, or Italian seasoning for extra flavor layers.
• Make it cheesy: Stir in mozzarella or goat cheese for creamy, melty goodness.

How to Make One Pan Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi

Step 1: Prepare and Brown the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and herbs you love. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add chicken and brown it on both sides until golden but not fully cooked through. This step locks in flavor and ensures your chicken stays juicy.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Remove chicken briefly and in the same pan, add diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and translucent, stirring to scrape up those lovely browned bits left by the chicken.

Step 3: Add Broth, Cream, and Gnocchi

Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring this liquid to a gentle simmer, then add the gnocchi. Cook for about 3–5 minutes, allowing the gnocchi to soften and soak in the flavorful sauce.

Step 4: Combine and Finish Cooking

Return the partially cooked chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the creamy gnocchi mixture. Cover the skillet and let everything cook together for 7–10 minutes until chicken is cooked through and sauce is thickened.

Step 5: Stir in Greens and Cheese

Just before serving, toss in fresh spinach or kale and sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top. Stir gently until greens wilt and cheese melts into the sauce, adding fresh color and irresistible richness.

Pro Tips for Making One Pan Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi

• Pat the chicken dry: Helps achieve that perfect golden sear.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Brown chicken in batches if needed to avoid steaming.
• Use fresh gnocchi when possible: For pillowy texture, though frozen works well too.
• Simmer gently: Avoid boiling to keep cream sauce silky and prevent curdling.
• Fresh herbs matter: Chopped parsley or basil added at the end brightens the dish.

How to Serve One Pan Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi

Garnishes

Brighten this rich dish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs like parsley or thyme and a dash of cracked black pepper. A little lemon zest adds a wonderful pop if you want a subtle brightness.

Side Dishes

Keep it simple with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette or roasted vegetables for texture contrast. Garlic bread or warm crusty rolls make perfect companions to soak up every last bit of creamy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a cozy dinner party, serve the One Pan Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi in shallow bowls garnished with herbs and Parmesan. For a casual family meal, plate family-style straight from the skillet and watch everyone dig in happily.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate. This dish keeps well for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.

Freezing

While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftover creamy chicken and gnocchi by placing it in a sealed freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much. Microwave reheating works too—just cover and stir halfway through to ensure even warming.

FAQs

Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?

Yes, frozen gnocchi works perfectly and may take an extra minute or two to cook until tender in the sauce.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Traditional gnocchi contains gluten, but you can find gluten-free gnocchi varieties to keep this dish gluten-free without sacrificing taste.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

Half-and-half, whole milk with a bit of butter, or dairy-free cream alternatives like coconut cream can be used to create a creamy sauce.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap chicken for mushrooms or plant-based protein and use vegetable broth for a satisfying vegetarian version.

How spicy is this dish?

The recipe is mild by default, but it can easily be spiced up with red pepper flakes or hot sauce according to your preference.

Final Thoughts

This One Pan Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi recipe is truly a weeknight game-changer—delicious, comforting, and so simple to make. Once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever managed busy dinners without it. So grab your skillet and get ready to enjoy a creamy, hearty meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Happy cooking!

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