Creamy Chicken Gnocchi

This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi is the ultimate comfort food! It’s rich, velvety, and packed with flavor. Perfect for cozy weeknights or special occasions, this dish combines tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and fresh spinach in a garlicky cream cheese sauce. With everything ready in just 20 minutes, it’s an ideal choice for those busy evenings when you crave something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

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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 Sauce
• For the Gnocchi
• 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 & Seasonings
• Step 5: Incorporate Cream Cheese
• Step 6: Add Gnocchi & Spinach
• Step 7: Finish & Serve
• How to Serve Creamy Chicken Gnocchi
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs
• Pair with Bread
• Add Extra Vegetables
• Highlight with Cheese
• Offer a Salad
• Serve with Wine
• 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
• Can I use frozen gnocchi?
• Is there a vegetarian version of Creamy Chicken Gnocchi?
• How do I make Creamy Chicken Gnocchi gluten-free?
• Can I add more vegetables?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of cream cheese and garlic creates a savory sauce that enhances the chicken and gnocchi.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or pair it with a light salad for a complete meal.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy texture and comforting taste of this dish.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one skillet.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi, you’ll need a few essential tools to streamline your cooking process. Having the right equipment makes preparation smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large deep skillet or pan: Ideal for sautéing and simmering all ingredients together in one pot.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware while ensuring even mixing.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are crucial for consistent results in your recipe.

Ingredients

For the Sauce

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 30 g (2 tablespoons) unsalted butter
• 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

For the Gnocchi

• 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*

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 & Seasonings

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

Step 5: Incorporate Cream Cheese

Once simmering, stir in cream cheese. Use your spoon to break it down until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 6: Add Gnocchi & 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 is wilted.

Step 7: Finish & Serve

Turn off the heat. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, then season with freshly ground black pepper and salt to taste. Serve immediately while warm and creamy!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Gnocchi

Creamy Chicken Gnocchi is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or add a bit of flair, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Basil or Parsley: Adding fresh basil or parsley on top not only enhances the flavor but also adds a pop of color.

Pair with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread for dipping into the creamy sauce. It’s perfect for soaking up every last bite.

Add Extra Vegetables

• Roasted Broccoli: Serve alongside roasted broccoli for a healthy crunch that complements the creamy texture.

Highlight with Cheese

• Crumbled Feta or Goat Cheese: Sprinkle crumbled cheese on top for an added tanginess that balances the creaminess of the dish.

Offer a Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad provides a crisp contrast to the rich flavors of the gnocchi, making for a well-rounded meal.

Serve with Wine

• White Wine: Pairing this dish with the same dry white wine used in cooking enhances the overall dining experience.

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How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Gnocchi

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

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh spinach and high-quality chicken. Fresh ingredients greatly enhance flavor and texture.

• Don’t Overcook Gnocchi: Keep an eye on your gnocchi while they cook. They should be tender but not mushy; this ensures they hold their shape in the dish.

• Adjust Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken stock or water to achieve your desired creaminess.

• Season Generously: Taste as you go and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. This step is key to achieving balanced flavors.

• Experiment with Proteins: Feel free to substitute chicken with shrimp or even mushrooms for a vegetarian twist on this recipe.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Gnocchi

Complementing your Creamy Chicken Gnocchi with side dishes can create a delightful meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Roasted Asparagus: Tender spears tossed in olive oil and garlic make a flavorful side that pairs beautifully.

2. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide freshness and acidity against the richness of the gnocchi.

3. Steamed Green Beans: Simple steamed green beans add crunch and color; toss them in lemon juice for extra zest.

4. Mushroom Risotto: Creamy risotto infused with mushrooms offers a luxurious pairing that complements the gnocchi’s texture.

5. Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles): For a lighter option, serve zoodles sautéed in olive oil; they create a refreshing contrast.

6. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil makes for an appetizing starter that excites the palate before indulging in gnocchi.

7. Side Caesar Salad: Pairing this rich dish with a crisp Caesar salad balances out flavors beautifully.

8. Roasted Cauliflower: Seasoned cauliflower adds a nutty flavor and pairs well without overwhelming the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Chicken Gnocchi, a few common mistakes can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using too much cream cheese: Adding excessive cream cheese can make the dish overly rich. Stick to the recommended amount for balanced flavors.
• Overcooking the gnocchi: Cooking gnocchi for too long can make it mushy. Follow the cooking time closely for perfect texture.
• Neglecting seasoning: Failing to season properly can result in blandness. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving.
• Not sautéing garlic enough: Undercooking garlic can produce a raw taste. Sauté until fragrant but not browned for optimal flavor.
• Skipping the wine: Omitting white wine removes depth from the sauce. Use it to enhance the overall flavor profile.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Creamy Chicken Gnocchi in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Gnocchi

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months; however, the texture may change upon reheating.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Gnocchi

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Creamy Chicken Gnocchi:

Can I use frozen gnocchi?

Yes, you can use frozen gnocchi directly without thawing. Just add them to the pan and adjust cooking time as needed.

Is there a vegetarian version of Creamy Chicken Gnocchi?

Absolutely! Substitute chicken with mushrooms or other veggies, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.

How do I make Creamy Chicken Gnocchi gluten-free?

Use gluten-free gnocchi and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to incorporate vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken Gnocchi is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with various ingredients based on your preferences. Whether it’s a cozy dinner or a quick weeknight meal, this dish is sure to impress. Give it a try!