Description
This creamy chicken and gnocchi dish is a quick and comforting skillet meal featuring tender chicken pieces simmered in a rich, flavorful sauce made with heavy cream, chicken stock, and Parmesan cheese. Enhanced with sun-dried tomatoes, smoked paprika, and fresh baby spinach, this recipe offers a perfect balance of savory and creamy textures ideal for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasonings
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into ¾-inch pieces
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
Sauce and Gnocchi
- 2 Tablespoons salted butter
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 cup unsalted chicken stock
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 package (16 ounces) potato gnocchi
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 ½ cup baby spinach leaves
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 6 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, ensuring an internal temperature of 165°F. Transfer the chicken to a plate, cover, and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and cook for about 20 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the chicken stock and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This adds depth and flavor to the sauce.
- Add Cream and Gnocchi: Stir in the heavy whipping cream, then add the potato gnocchi to the skillet. Simmer for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and the gnocchi become tender.
- Incorporate Seasonings and Cheese: Lower the heat to medium-low. Stir in smoked paprika, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and grated Parmesan cheese until well combined and the cheese melts into the sauce.
- Wilt the Spinach: Add the baby spinach to the skillet and stir until it wilts into the creamy sauce. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a small amount of water to loosen the consistency.
- Combine Chicken and Serve: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir until it is fully coated with the sauce. Remove from heat and serve immediately for a warm, creamy dinner.
Notes
- Use store-bought potato gnocchi for convenience but fresh gnocchi can be used if preferred.
- Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed before serving.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a milk alternative, noting it will slightly reduce creaminess.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
