One Pan Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Recipe

The One Pan Lemon Chicken Gnocchi recipe is a delightful combination of tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a zesty, creamy lemon sauce—all prepared in a single skillet for maximum convenience. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a restaurant-quality meal with minimal cleanup. The vibrant lemon flavor complements the richness of the sauce, creating a harmonious balance that’s irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy schedules.
2. Minimal Cleanup: Everything cooks in one pan—no need for multiple pots or dishes.
3. Delicious Flavor Profile: The creamy lemon sauce, seasoned chicken, and soft gnocchi create a perfect combination.
4. Customizable: Add vegetables or adjust seasonings to suit your taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken strips with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat the Pan: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Cook the Chicken: Sear the chicken strips for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Gnocchi

1. Add Butter: Reduce the heat to medium and add butter to the same skillet.
2. Toast the Gnocchi: Add the gnocchi and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned. This step adds texture and enhances the flavor.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Cream Sauce

1. Sauté the Garlic: Add minced garlic to the pan and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Deglaze with Broth: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits.
3. Add Cream: Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning.
4. Incorporate Lemon: Add the lemon juice and zest, stirring to combine. Adjust the seasoning with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes, if desired.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Add the Chicken: Return the cooked chicken strips to the pan.
2. Simmer Together: Cover the skillet and let the mixture simmer for 5–7 minutes until the gnocchi is tender and the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5: Optional Additions

1. Add Vegetables: If using spinach or cherry tomatoes, stir them in during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
2. Garnish: Sprinkle fresh parsley or basil on top before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the dish hot, directly from the skillet, with a side of crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Pair it with a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
• Complement with a glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.

Tips for Success

1. Cook Chicken Properly: Ensure the chicken strips are thin and evenly sized for consistent cooking.
2. Toast the Gnocchi: Browning the gnocchi adds texture and enhances the overall flavor.
3. Control the Lemon Flavor: Adjust the amount of lemon juice and zest to balance the tartness with the creaminess.
4. Don’t Overcook Spinach: If adding spinach, stir it in just before serving to maintain its vibrant green color and texture.

Variations

1. Protein Swap:
   • Substitute chicken with shrimp or turkey for a different twist.
2. Vegetarian Option:
   • Skip the chicken and add more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or asparagus. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
3. Gluten-Free Version:
   • Use gluten-free gnocchi available at most grocery stores.
4. Extra Cheesy:
   • Stir in extra Parmesan or add shredded mozzarella for a cheesier dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen gnocchi?
Yes, but thaw them before cooking for best results.

2. What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can substitute with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream cheese for a similar creamy texture.

3. How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?
Ensure the cream is at room temperature and avoid cooking the sauce over high heat.

4. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but you can cook the chicken and prepare the sauce in advance. Combine everything just before serving.

Why This Recipe Works

The One Pan Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Recipe is a standout because it delivers incredible flavor with minimal effort. The tender chicken and pillowy gnocchi are elevated by the tangy, creamy lemon sauce, making it a dish that’s both comforting and refreshing. By cooking everything in one pan, the flavors meld beautifully while saving you time and hassle. It’s a versatile recipe that’s sure to become a household favorite!

Yield: 4

One Pan Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Recipe

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The One Pan Lemon Chicken Gnocchi recipe is a delightful combination of tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a zesty, creamy lemon sauce—all prepared in a single skillet for maximum convenience. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a restaurant-quality meal with minimal cleanup. The vibrant lemon flavor complements the richness of the sauce, creating a harmonious balance that's irresistible.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 25 minutes

Total Time 35 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 1 lb (16 oz) gnocchi (shelf-stable or fresh)
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp butter
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Sear the Chicken:
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
   Season the chicken pieces with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
   Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown and fully cooked (about 6-8 minutes). Remove and set aside.
   
2. Sauté the Garlic:
   Lower the heat to medium, and in the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
   
3. Add Liquid Ingredients:
   Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir well to combine.
   
4. Cook the Gnocchi:
   Add the gnocchi to the skillet, ensuring they are submerged in the liquid. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover and cook for 5-7 minutes until the gnocchi is tender and the sauce begins to thicken.
   
5. Combine Everything:
   Stir in the cooked chicken, baby spinach, Parmesan cheese, and butter. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the sauce is creamy.
   
6. Serve:
   Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Notes

Add Veggies: Toss in mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for extra flavor and nutrients.

Lighter Option: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative for a lighter dish.

Cheese Options: Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or a mix of Italian cheeses.