Dinner

One Pot Creamy Gnocchi Chicken Skillet Recipe

ByEthan Lark February 23, 2026February 23, 2026

Introduction

This creamy one-pot gnocchi and chicken dish is a comforting, flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and fresh vegetables come together in a rich sauce that’s quick and easy to make. Enjoy a delicious dinner with minimal cleanup!

The image shows a close-up of a baked dish in a white bowl filled with layers of golden-brown gnocchi on top, each piece slightly browned and crispy. Underneath, the gnocchi are covered in creamy, melted cheese with a few bright green peas scattered throughout for color contrast. Small sprigs of fresh herbs are sprinkled on top, adding a touch of green along with the peas. The textures show a mix of soft, melted cheese and slightly firm gnocchi with a crispy baked surface. The bowl sits on a white marbled texture background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound of gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
2 cups fresh spinach
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
Step 2: Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring often to avoid burning.
Step 3: Add the diced red bell pepper and continue to sauté for another 3-4 minutes until softened.
Step 4: Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, dried oregano, and basil. Add to the pot and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through.
Step 5: Add the gnocchi to the pot (no need to pre-cook if store-bought). Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine, ensuring the gnocchi is submerged.
Step 6: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to cook the gnocchi.
Step 7: Remove the lid and add the halved cherry tomatoes and fresh spinach. Stir gently to combine.
Step 8: Pour in the heavy cream and stir well to incorporate. Simmer for another 3-4 minutes until the spinach wilts and tomatoes soften.
Step 9: If using, sprinkle in red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 10: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Remove from heat and let sit for a couple of minutes to thicken the sauce slightly.
Step 11: Serve the gnocchi and chicken mixture in bowls, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired. Enjoy with crusty bread or a simple salad.

Tips & Variations

For added flavor, swap heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
If you prefer, use sweet Italian sausage instead of chicken.
Add mushrooms or zucchini for extra vegetables.
Adjust the red pepper flakes based on your preferred spice level or omit them altogether.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce thickens too much.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a creamy baked dish featuring golden-brown top layer of small, soft gnocchi pieces slightly browned and bubbly. The gnocchi rest in a rich, smooth cheese sauce with a light yellow color, evenly coating each piece. Bright green peas are scattered throughout, adding a pop of color and contrast against the creamy sauce and golden gnocchi. Small fresh green herb sprigs are placed on top, adding texture and freshness. The dish is contained in a round white baking dish, sitting on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Do I need to precook the gnocchi?

No, store-bought gnocchi cooks perfectly in the sauce during the simmering step, so there’s no need to boil it separately.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with canned coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative and omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free cheese substitute.