Description
This creamy chicken and gnocchi recipe is a comforting one-pot meal combining tender chicken, soft gnocchi, fresh vegetables, and a rich, flavorful sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, it is quick to prepare, packed with wholesome ingredients, and sure to satisfy the whole family with its delicious blend of textures and tastes.
Ingredients
Scale
Main 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
- Gather Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients to streamline the cooking process.
- Sauté Onions: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Add Garlic: Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning and to release its aroma.
- Cook Bell Pepper: Add diced red bell pepper and sauté for another 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Cook Chicken: Add chicken pieces to the pot, season with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and fully cooked.
- Add Gnocchi: Add the gnocchi directly to the pot; no need to pre-cook if store-bought.
- Pour Broth: Pour in the chicken broth, stir to combine making sure gnocchi is submerged.
- Simmer: Bring mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 5 minutes to cook the gnocchi and blend flavors.
- Add Vegetables: Remove lid and stir in halved cherry tomatoes and fresh spinach gently.
- Add Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and stir well to create a rich, creamy sauce.
- Simmer Again: Let simmer for 3-4 minutes until spinach wilts and tomatoes soften; optionally add red pepper flakes for heat.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and add more salt and pepper if necessary.
- Add Cheese: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt for extra flavor and creaminess.
- Rest: Remove from heat and let the dish sit for a couple minutes to thicken the sauce slightly.
- Serve: Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a full meal.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; flavors will deepen over time.
- To reheat, warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: gnocchi, chicken recipe, one pot meal, creamy chicken gnocchi, quick dinner, easy weeknight recipes, Italian comfort food
