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–+ servings

Creamy Chicken Gnocchi

A comforting and creamy one-skillet meal featuring tender gnocchi, browned chicken, and fresh spinach, ready in just under 30 minutes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Serving Size 2 servings

Ingredients

For the main dish

  • 2 cups gnocchi (fresh or frozen) Potato gnocchi works best.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil For searing the chicken.
  • 1 pound chicken breast, diced Boneless, skinless. Substitute thighs for more flavor.
  • 3 cups fresh spinach Baby spinach wilts quickly.
  • 1 cup heavy cream Gives the sauce its richness.
  • 1 cup chicken broth Use low-sodium if preferred.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder Or 1-2 cloves minced garlic for brighter flavor.
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Parmesan cheese for serving Freshly grated if possible.

Instructions

Preparation

  • Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to package directions until they float and are tender. Drain and set aside.
  • Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced chicken in a single layer. Sear without moving for 2-3 minutes, then stir and continue cooking until browned and reaches 165°F (74°C) internally. Remove any large pieces if they finish faster.
  • Reduce heat to medium-low. Add spinach to the skillet and cook, stirring, until just wilted (about 1-2 minutes).
  • Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir in the garlic powder, then season with salt and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  • Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet and toss gently to coat and heat through. If the sauce is too thin, simmer for a few more minutes or stir in a small slurry of cornstarch and water (1 teaspoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water).
  • Serve immediately, topping with a generous grating of Parmesan.

Notes

Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3–4 days in the refrigerator. For freezing, only freeze cooked chicken and sauce separately without gnocchi to maintain texture.