Creamy Chicken Gnocchi

This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi is the ultimate comfort food—rich, velvety, and packed with flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish combines tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and fresh spinach in a garlicky cream cheese sauce that’s ready in just 20 minutes. It’s cozy without the fuss, making it ideal for family dinners or a cozy evening in.

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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 Chicken Gnocchi
• For Garnish
• How to Make Creamy Chicken Gnocchi
• Step 1: Heat the Oil and Cook the Chicken
• Step 2: Sauté Garlic
• Step 3: Deglaze with Wine
• Step 4: Create the Sauce
• Step 5: Add Cream Cheese
• Step 6: Incorporate Gnocchi and Spinach
• Step 7: Final Touches
• How to Serve Creamy Chicken Gnocchi
• Pair with Garlic Bread
• Add a Fresh Salad
• Serve with Steamed Vegetables
• Top with Extra Parmesan
• Include a Glass of Wine
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs
• How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Gnocchi
• Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Gnocchi
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Creamy Chicken Gnocchi
• Reheating Creamy Chicken Gnocchi
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Creamy Chicken Gnocchi?
• Can I customize this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi recipe?
• How do I make this recipe healthier?
• What should I serve with Creamy Chicken Gnocchi?
• Can I use frozen gnocchi instead?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This creamy chicken gnocchi can be prepared in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for those busy weeknights.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of garlic, Italian seasoning, and cream cheese creates a rich and flavorful sauce that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile Dish: You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or substituting proteins.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one pan, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your meal.
• Comfort Food Classic: The creamy texture and hearty ingredients make this dish the epitome of comfort food.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools to make preparation smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large deep skillet or pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large deep skillet or pan: Allows for even cooking of chicken and mixing of ingredients without splattering.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring sauces gently without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Gnocchi

• 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
• Freshly ground black pepper and salt, to taste

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Creamy Chicken Gnocchi

Step 1: Heat the Oil and Cook the Chicken

Start by heating the olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium heat.
* Add the butter and let it melt completely until foaming.
* Once melted, add the diced chicken into the skillet.
* Cook for 4–5 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic

Add minced garlic to the pan.
* Sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Deglaze with Wine

Pour in dry white wine into the skillet.
* Cook for 1–2 minutes to allow most of the alcohol to evaporate.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Stir in Italian seasoning mix followed by chicken stock.
* Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Add Cream Cheese

Once simmering:
* Stir in the cream cheese.
* Use your spoon to break it down until you achieve a smooth and creamy sauce.

Step 6: Incorporate Gnocchi and Spinach

Add gnocchi and spinach to the pan.
* Cover with a lid and cook for about 3–5 minutes until gnocchi is soft, and spinach wilts.

Step 7: Final Touches

Turn off the heat.
* Stir in grated Parmesan cheese.
* Season with freshly ground black pepper and salt as needed.

Serve immediately while warm and creamy! Enjoy your delightful bowl of creamy chicken gnocchi!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Gnocchi

Creamy Chicken Gnocchi is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or elevate your meal, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Garlic Bread: This classic side adds a crunchy texture and a burst of flavor that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.

Add a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the gnocchi.

Serve with Steamed Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli or Asparagus: Adding steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus brings color and nutrients to your plate while balancing the creamy elements.

Top with Extra Parmesan

• Parmesan Shavings: A sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan cheese on top adds richness and enhances the overall flavor profile.

Include a Glass of Wine

• White Wine: Pairing your dish with a glass of dry white wine echoes the flavors in the sauce and elevates your dining experience.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh Basil or Parsley: A handful of fresh herbs enhances presentation and provides an aromatic lift that pairs beautifully with the dish.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Gnocchi

To ensure your Creamy Chicken Gnocchi turns out perfectly every time, consider these essential tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and spinach will greatly improve flavor and texture.
• Cook Gnocchi Al Dente: Follow package instructions to cook gnocchi just until tender for the best bite.
• Adjust Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken stock to reach your desired creaminess.
• Taste as You Go: Season gradually while cooking; this allows you to balance flavors effectively.
• Don’t Overcook Spinach: Add spinach just before serving so it stays vibrant and retains its nutrients.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to adjust spices according to your preference for an extra kick or unique flavor profile.

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Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Gnocchi

Creamy Chicken Gnocchi pairs beautifully with several sides that complement its rich flavors. Here are some delicious options you can consider:

1. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad offers crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and tangy dressing.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Roasting Brussels sprouts brings out their natural sweetness, making them an excellent side.
3. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing appetizer.
4. Zucchini Noodles: Light and low-carb, zucchini noodles provide a healthy alternative without sacrificing flavor.
5. Antipasto Platter: A mix of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables makes for a hearty side option.
6. Herb Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf infused with herbs creates a satisfying base that absorbs the creamy sauce well.
7. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob adds a fun touch—season with butter and salt for extra goodness.
8. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice or quinoa make for an eye-catching side dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Chicken Gnocchi, even small missteps can affect your dish. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Always use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Opt for high-quality chicken, fresh spinach, and good cream cheese.
• Overcooking the Gnocchi: Cook gnocchi just until they float in boiling water. Overcooking results in a mushy texture that ruins the dish.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Don’t skip seasoning your dish with salt and pepper. Taste as you go to ensure balanced flavors.
• Not Stirring Enough: Make sure to stir the sauce well after adding the cream cheese. This ensures a smooth and creamy consistency.
• Cooking at Too High a Heat: Keep your heat at medium when cooking the chicken. High heat can cause it to brown too quickly without cooking through.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Creamy Chicken Gnocchi in an airtight container.
• It can last in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Ensure it cools completely before sealing the container.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Gnocchi

• To freeze, let it cool and transfer it into freezer-safe containers.
• It will keep well for up to 3 months in the freezer.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Gnocchi

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of chicken stock or water along with your leftovers. Stir until heated throughout.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Creamy Chicken Gnocchi?

Creamy Chicken Gnocchi is a comforting dish made with tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and spinach in a rich cream cheese sauce.

Can I customize this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi recipe?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers or swap chicken for shrimp or sausage for variety.

How do I make this recipe healthier?

For a lighter option, consider using low-fat cream cheese or substituting some of the gnocchi with zucchini noodles.

What should I serve with Creamy Chicken Gnocchi?

This dish pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread to soak up any leftover sauce.

Can I use frozen gnocchi instead?

Yes! Frozen gnocchi works great; just follow package instructions for cooking time.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken Gnocchi is not only delicious but also versatile enough to please any palate. You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite veggies or proteins. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!