Creamy Chicken Gnocchi

This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth and flavor to your table. Perfect for weeknights or special gatherings, this dish combines tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and fresh spinach in a rich cream cheese sauce. With a cooking time of just 20 minutes, it’s an easy meal that doesn’t compromise on taste.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Main Dish
• For Garnish
• How to Make Creamy Chicken Gnocchi
• Step 1: Heat the Oil and Butter
• Step 2: Cook the Chicken
• Step 3: Sauté Garlic
• Step 4: Add Wine and Simmer
• Step 5: Stir in Cream Cheese
• Step 6: Add Gnocchi and Spinach
• Step 7: Finish with Parmesan
• Step 8: Serve Warm
• How to Serve Creamy Chicken Gnocchi
• Family-Style Serving
• With a Side Salad
• Topped with Extra Cheese
• Accompanied by Crusty Bread
• Garnished with Fresh Herbs
• With Lemon Zest
• How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Gnocchi
• Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Gnocchi
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Creamy Chicken Gnocchi
• Reheating Creamy Chicken Gnocchi
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Creamy Chicken Gnocchi?
• Can I customize my Creamy Chicken Gnocchi?
• Is there a vegetarian version of Creamy Chicken Gnocchi?
• How long does it take to make Creamy Chicken Gnocchi?
• Can I use frozen gnocchi?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic, cream cheese, and chicken stock creates a velvety sauce that’s bursting with flavor.
• Versatile Dish: Pair it with a salad or serve as a hearty main course; this dish fits any occasion.
• One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup is required since it’s made in one skillet.
• Family-Friendly: The creamy texture and comforting flavors make it a hit with both kids and adults.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make cooking more enjoyable and efficient. Here are the essentials you’ll need to whip up this delicious meal.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large deep skillet or pan
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large deep skillet or pan: Provides ample space for cooking chicken and mixing in the gnocchi without spilling.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring ingredients gently without damaging your cookware.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures precise ingredient quantities for consistent results every time.

Ingredients

For the Main Dish

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 30 g (2 tablespoons) unsalted butter
• 350 g (12 oz) chicken breast, diced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 75 ml (⅓ cup) dry white wine
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning mix
• 400 ml (1½ cups) chicken stock
• 180 g (6.3 oz) cream cheese
• 500 g (1 lb) gnocchi
• 100 g (3.5 oz) baby spinach, roughly shredded
• 30 g (¼ cup) grated Parmesan cheese

For Garnish

• Freshly ground black pepper and salt, to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Creamy Chicken Gnocchi

Step 1: Heat the Oil and Butter

Heat the olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium heat. Add the butter and let it melt completely until foaming.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Add the diced chicken to the skillet. Cook for 4–5 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Add Wine and Simmer

Pour in the dry white wine. Cook for 1–2 minutes until most of the alcohol has evaporated. Stir in Italian seasoning and chicken stock; bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Stir in Cream Cheese

Once simmering, add the cream cheese into the pan. Use your spoon to break it down while mixing until you achieve a smooth creamy sauce.

Step 6: Add Gnocchi and Spinach

Add the gnocchi and shredded spinach to the pan. Cover with a lid; cook for 3–5 minutes until the gnocchi softens and spinach wilts.

Step 7: Finish with Parmesan

Turn off the heat. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese. Season with freshly ground black pepper and salt to taste.

Step 8: Serve Warm

Serve immediately while it’s warm and creamy for best enjoyment!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Gnocchi

Creamy Chicken Gnocchi is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Family-Style Serving

• Serve the creamy chicken gnocchi directly from the skillet for a cozy, family-style meal. This way, everyone can help themselves and enjoy the warm, comforting dish together.

With a Side Salad

• Pair it with a fresh side salad. A simple mixed greens salad with vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch that balances the creamy richness of the gnocchi.

Topped with Extra Cheese

• For cheese lovers, sprinkle extra grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving. This adds an extra layer of flavor and creaminess that complements the dish beautifully.

Accompanied by Crusty Bread

• Serve with slices of crusty bread. Perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce, this addition makes the meal even more satisfying.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Top your creamy chicken gnocchi with fresh herbs like basil or parsley. This not only adds color but also enhances the flavor profile of the dish.

With Lemon Zest

• A sprinkle of lemon zest just before serving brightens up the dish. The citrus flavor cuts through the richness, making each bite refreshing.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Gnocchi

Perfecting creamy chicken gnocchi is all about technique and timing. Follow these tips for an even more delicious result.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken breast and spinach will enhance the flavor and texture of your dish. Avoid frozen ingredients if possible.
• Cook Gnocchi Al Dente: Make sure to cook the gnocchi until it’s tender but still slightly firm. This gives a delightful texture that holds up well in the creamy sauce.
• Adjust Seasoning: Always taste as you cook. Adjust salt and pepper to suit your preference, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
• Add Vegetables: Feel free to include other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
• Control Heat: Keep your heat at medium when simmering. High heat can cause the cream cheese to separate instead of creating a smooth sauce.
• Finish with Olive Oil: Drizzling a little olive oil over the finished dish adds richness and a glossy finish.

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Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Gnocchi

Complement your creamy chicken gnocchi with these delicious side dishes that enhance your meal’s overall appeal.

1. Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up leftover sauce, garlic bread provides a crunchy contrast to soft gnocchi.
2. Steamed Broccoli: A healthy option, steamed broccoli brings vibrant color and nutrients while balancing out the creaminess.
3. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing pairs well, adding freshness alongside your rich main course.
4. Roasted Asparagus: Toss asparagus with olive oil and roast until tender; its earthy flavor complements the gnocchi beautifully.
5. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomatoes, garlic, and basil offers a fresh appetizer that sets a lovely tone before the main dish.
6. Sweet Potato Fries: These add sweetness and crunch, creating an interesting contrast against the creamy texture of your meal.
7. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw offers tanginess that contrasts nicely with creamy dishes while providing additional crunch.
8. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and cherry tomatoes on skewers make for an easy-to-eat side that’s bursting with flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Creamy Chicken Gnocchi, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Skipping the garlic: Garlic adds depth of flavor. Make sure to sauté it until fragrant for the best taste.
• Not cooking the chicken thoroughly: Ensure your chicken is fully cooked before adding other ingredients. This keeps the dish safe and delicious.
• Overcooking the gnocchi: Gnocchi cooks quickly; keep an eye on it! Overcooked gnocchi can become mushy.
• Using low-quality cream cheese: Good quality cream cheese enhances the creaminess of the sauce. Choose a brand you trust for better results.
• Forgetting to season: Don’t skip salt and pepper! Proper seasoning elevates flavors and makes each bite enjoyable.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftover Creamy Chicken Gnocchi in an airtight container.
• item It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Gnocchi

• item You can freeze this dish, but it’s best to do so before adding spinach and Parmesan cheese.
• item Use a freezer-safe container or bag for storage, and consume within 2 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Gnocchi

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until evenly warmed.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Creamy Chicken Gnocchi?

Creamy Chicken Gnocchi is a comforting pasta dish featuring tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and creamy sauce made with cream cheese.

Can I customize my Creamy Chicken Gnocchi?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers, or even swap in different proteins like shrimp or sausage.

Is there a vegetarian version of Creamy Chicken Gnocchi?

Yes! Substitute the chicken with mushrooms or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock for a vegetarian twist.

How long does it take to make Creamy Chicken Gnocchi?

This recipe takes about 20 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for quick weeknight dinners.

Can I use frozen gnocchi?

Yes, you can use frozen gnocchi directly in this recipe. Just add them to the skillet without thawing first!

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken Gnocchi is not only an easy dish to prepare but also versatile enough for various tastes. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins. Give this recipe a try—it’s sure to become a family favorite!