Name: Creamy Chicken Gnocchi
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Ingredients: 1 pound potato gnocchi; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; Salt and pepper, to taste; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup baby spinach; 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or mix of basil, oregano, thyme); Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

This comforting dish features tender chicken and pillowy gnocchi in a rich, creamy sauce infused with garlic and herbs—perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner. I love how the flavors blend seamlessly, creating a satisfying and hearty meal that feels indulgent but is easy to make.

Ingredients

1 pound potato gnocchi

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

Salt and pepper, to taste

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 small onion, finely chopped

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup chicken broth

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup baby spinach

1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or mix of basil, oregano, thyme)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook gnocchi according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper.

Add chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and chopped onion; sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.

Reduce heat to medium, then add heavy cream, chicken broth, and Italian seasoning. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer.

Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and sauce thickens slightly, about 2-3 minutes.

Add cooked gnocchi, chicken, and baby spinach to the skillet. Toss gently to coat and cook until spinach wilts, about 2 minutes.

Season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings. It takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, so the total time is roughly 35 minutes—perfect for a weeknight meal that’s ready in under an hour.

Variations

I sometimes swap the baby spinach for kale or arugula for a slightly different flavor and texture. You can also add sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms to the sauce for more depth. If I want a lighter version, I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. For extra heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes works wonders.

Storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I gently warm the dish in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it’s thickened too much. Microwaving works too, but I prefer stovetop reheating for better texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?

Yes, frozen gnocchi works perfectly. Just cook it according to the package instructions before adding it to the sauce.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

Half-and-half or whole milk with a tablespoon of flour can be used to thicken the sauce, though it won’t be quite as rich and creamy.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Use a dairy-free cream substitute and skip the Parmesan or use a vegan cheese alternative.

Is it possible to use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken can be added at the end just to warm through. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Most potato gnocchi is naturally gluten-free, but always check the package to be sure. Confirm other ingredients like broth and seasoning blends are gluten-free as well.

Conclusion

I find this creamy chicken gnocchi recipe to be a reliable, delicious meal that satisfies comfort food cravings without being complicated. It’s versatile, quick, and rich with flavor—a perfect weeknight dinner I come back to time and again. Whether I’m feeding family or just craving a cozy dish, this recipe delivers every time.