HomeDinnerChicken Sausage and Gnocchi Skillet Recipe

Chicken Sausage and Gnocchi Skillet Recipe

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Chicken Sausage and Gnocchi Skillet Recipe

This Chicken Sausage and Gnocchi Skillet is a comforting, hearty, and flavorful one-pan dish that’s packed with protein, vegetables, and tender gnocchi. The combination of savory chicken sausage, crispy gnocchi, fresh vegetables, and seasonings makes it a perfect weeknight dinner. It’s quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying, plus the skillet cooking method ensures you get crispy bits of gnocchi that absorb all the flavors of the sausage and sauce.

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In this guide, we’ll walk you through every aspect of making this dish, from the selection of ingredients to step-by-step cooking instructions and suggestions for variations.

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Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Before you start cooking, gather all your ingredients. Having everything prepped and ready to go will make the cooking process smooth and easy. Here’s a breakdown of how to prepare the ingredients:

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  • Chicken Sausage: If using pre-cooked chicken sausage, slice it into 1/2-inch thick rounds or half-moons. If using raw sausage, remove the casings and crumble it into bite-sized pieces.
  • Gnocchi: If using store-bought gnocchi, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions. Once they float to the surface, they are done. Drain them and set aside. If you’re using homemade gnocchi, follow the same process.
  • Vegetables: Dice the bell pepper, slice the zucchini, and halve the cherry tomatoes. Mince the garlic and finely chop the onion.
  • Spices: Measure out your red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, and dried thyme.

With all the ingredients prepped, you’re now ready to begin cooking!

Step 2: Brown the Chicken Sausage

In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced or crumbled chicken sausage. If you’re using raw sausage, break it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Allow the sausage to cook for about 5-7 minutes until it’s browned on all sides. The sausage should develop a nice caramelized exterior. Once browned, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until it softens and becomes translucent. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

Next, add the diced bell pepper and zucchini. Sauté the vegetables for about 4-5 minutes until they start to soften but still maintain some bite. The bell peppers should be slightly tender, and the zucchini should have a slight golden color. If you’re adding spinach, toss it in now and cook it down for about 1-2 minutes until wilted.

Step 4: Crisp the Gnocchi

While the vegetables are cooking, you can prepare the gnocchi. Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet with the vegetables, and let them cook in the skillet for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. The goal is to get the gnocchi lightly browned and crispy on the outside. The gnocchi will absorb some of the flavors from the vegetables and the sausage, making it even more delicious.

Step 5: Deglaze the Skillet

Once the gnocchi has a bit of color, add the chicken broth (or white wine) to deglaze the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any brown bits stuck to the bottom of the pan; these bits are packed with flavor! Allow the broth to reduce for a minute or two, letting the liquid absorb into the gnocchi and vegetables.

Step 6: Add the Sauce and Seasonings

Now it’s time to add the creaminess. Pour in the heavy cream and add the red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, dried thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes.

If you like a little extra depth of flavor, you can drizzle in balsamic vinegar at this stage. This balances the richness of the sausage and cream with a touch of acidity.

Step 7: Combine the Sausage and Tomatoes

Add the browned chicken sausage back into the skillet, along with the halved cherry tomatoes. Stir everything together, allowing the sausage and tomatoes to warm through. The tomatoes will soften slightly and release some juices into the sauce, adding even more flavor.

Let everything simmer together for another 3-4 minutes, ensuring the gnocchi, sausage, and vegetables are fully coated in the creamy sauce.

Step 8: Taste and Adjust Seasoning

At this point, taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or a touch more red pepper flakes if you prefer a spicier dish. If the sauce has thickened too much, you can add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a fresh pop of color. You can also grate some Parmesan cheese or Pecorino Romano over the top for extra richness and flavor.

Serve the Chicken Sausage and Gnocchi Skillet in bowls, and enjoy the comforting, savory goodness!

Pro Tips for Success:

  1. Crisping the Gnocchi: To get the gnocchi crispy, be patient and let it brown without stirring too frequently. The more contact the gnocchi has with the hot skillet, the crispier it will get.
  2. Sauteeing the Sausage: For the most flavor, allow the chicken sausage to get nice and caramelized in the skillet. This will enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
  3. Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as mushrooms, broccoli, or kale, to the skillet. They will absorb the flavors of the sausage and cream sauce and make the dish more hearty.
  4. Fresh Gnocchi: If you’re making fresh gnocchi, be sure to cook it in a large pot of salted boiling water until it floats to the surface. Fresh gnocchi doesn’t need as much time in the skillet, so you can add it directly to the vegetables and sausage and cook until crispy.
  5. Adjusting Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter version of this dish, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, milk, or even coconut milk (for a dairy-free option). The sauce will be less rich but still flavorful.
  6. Leftovers: This dish stores well for leftovers. Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little more broth or cream to rehydrate the sauce.
  7. Make-Ahead: You can prep the sausage and vegetables ahead of time, so all you need to do is cook the gnocchi and combine everything when you’re ready to serve.

Additional Variations:

One of the joys of this Chicken Sausage and Gnocchi Skillet recipe is its versatility. Here are some delicious variations you can try based on your preferences or dietary needs:

1. Veggie-Only Version (Vegetarian):

For a vegetarian version, you can replace the chicken sausage with plant-based sausage or add more vegetables for a hearty, satisfying dish. Try using:

  • Mushrooms: Mushrooms have a meaty texture and absorb flavors wonderfully, making them a great alternative to sausage. You can sauté them in place of the sausage, adding some extra olive oil or butter for richness.
  • Lentils: Cooked lentils or canned lentils can be used as a protein-packed addition. They’re filling and hearty, making them a great alternative to sausage.
  • Eggplant: Diced eggplant, when cooked until soft and slightly caramelized, provides a great textural contrast in the skillet.

2. Gluten-Free Version:

If you’re following a gluten-free diet, you can easily modify the dish:

  • Gluten-Free Gnocchi: You can substitute traditional gnocchi with gluten-free gnocchi made from rice flour or potato starch. Many stores now carry gluten-free gnocchi options, so you won’t miss out on this comforting dish.
  • Gluten-Free Sausage: Choose a gluten-free chicken sausage, ensuring that no fillers or bread crumbs are included in the sausage ingredients.

3. Spicy Kick:

If you love bold flavors and heat, you can increase the level of spiciness in the dish:

  • Increase Red Pepper Flakes: Add more red pepper flakes to the skillet, or opt for a spicier variety like crushed chili flakes or cayenne pepper.
  • Spicy Sausage: You could substitute the chicken sausage with a spicy Italian sausage or even a chorizo-style sausage for an extra kick.
  • Hot Sauce or Sriracha: A splash of your favorite hot sauce can give the dish a tangy and spicy twist.

4. Dairy-Free or Vegan:

For a dairy-free or vegan version of this dish, make the following adjustments:

  • Non-Dairy Cream: Use a coconut milk-based cream, cashew cream, or oat cream to replace the heavy cream. These alternatives will still give the sauce a creamy texture, with the coconut milk adding a hint of sweetness.
  • Vegan Sausage: There are many plant-based sausages available, so choose your favorite and add them to the skillet in place of the chicken sausage.

5. Mediterranean Twist:

If you want to infuse a Mediterranean flair to the dish, you can modify the ingredients:

  • Add Olives and Feta: Toss some sliced Kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese into the dish toward the end of cooking. This will add a briny and tangy contrast to the richness of the creamy sauce.
  • Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh oregano, basil, or rosemary can replace or complement the thyme, giving the dish a Mediterranean touch.
  • Lemon Zest: Add lemon zest to brighten the dish and bring a refreshing citrus note to balance the richness.

Tips for Perfect Gnocchi:

Gnocchi is often the star of this dish, so getting it right is essential. Here are some extra tips for perfect gnocchi:

  1. Avoid Overcooking Gnocchi: Gnocchi only needs a few minutes to cook. Once they float to the top of the boiling water, they are ready. Overcooking gnocchi can make them soggy, so remove them promptly when they float.
  2. Pan-Fry for Crispiness: After boiling the gnocchi, you can pan-fry them to get them extra crispy. Use a bit of oil or butter to ensure the gnocchi gets a golden crust on each side.
  3. Storing Fresh Gnocchi: If you are making homemade gnocchi, you can freeze the uncooked gnocchi. To do so, arrange the gnocchi on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze them until firm, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to cook, drop them directly into boiling water without thawing.

Make-Ahead Instructions:

While this dish is ideal for a quick and easy weeknight dinner, you can certainly prepare some of the components ahead of time to save time when you’re ready to cook:

  1. Prepare the Sausage: Cook and slice the sausage ahead of time and store it in the fridge. You can add it to the skillet when ready to finish the dish.
  2. Chop the Veggies: Chop the onion, garlic, bell pepper, and zucchini in advance and store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days.
  3. Boil the Gnocchi: You can cook the gnocchi in advance and refrigerate them. When ready to serve, just reheat them in the skillet and crisp them up.
  4. Sauce Prep: Prepare the creamy sauce (without adding the sausage and gnocchi) and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply reheat and combine with the sausage and gnocchi when you’re ready to serve.

Serving Suggestions:

This Chicken Sausage and Gnocchi Skillet is a filling dish on its own, but you can complement it with a few sides for a more complete meal. Here are some ideas:

1. Side Salad:

A light, fresh salad is a great accompaniment to balance the richness of the skillet. Here are some ideas:

  • Mixed Green Salad: Toss fresh greens like arugula, spinach, or baby kale with a simple vinaigrette made of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and Dijon mustard.
  • Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crispy croutons and Parmesan cheese pairs wonderfully with the creamy skillet.
  • Caprese Salad: For a Mediterranean twist, serve a Caprese salad with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.

2. Crusty Bread:

A warm, crusty loaf of bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce. Opt for:

  • Sourdough Bread: The tanginess of sourdough complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
  • Garlic Bread: For extra flavor, serve some crispy, buttery garlic bread on the side.
  • Focaccia: Soft and flavorful focaccia with rosemary and sea salt makes a wonderful accompaniment to the dish.

3. Roasted Vegetables:

To add more veggies to your meal, try serving it with a side of roasted vegetables. The sweetness of roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or cauliflower will provide a nice contrast to the savory skillet.

Conclusion:

This Chicken Sausage and Gnocchi Skillet is a satisfying, flavorful dish that combines savory sausage, tender gnocchi, and fresh vegetables in a creamy sauce. It’s easy to prepare, full of textures, and perfect for a cozy dinner. With just one skillet and a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a meal that feels indulgent but is still easy enough for a weeknight.

By following this recipe and the tips provided, you’ll be able to master this dish and customize it to suit your tastes. Whether you’re making it for a quick dinner or sharing it with loved ones, this skillet meal will surely become a favorite in your culinary rotation.

The Chicken Sausage and Gnocchi Skillet is a dish that delivers incredible flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re making it on a busy weeknight or for a cozy dinner with loved ones, it’s sure to become a favorite. The combination of juicy sausage, crispy gnocchi, and creamy vegetables makes for a satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.

By experimenting with different variations and ingredients, you can customize the dish to suit your tastes. And with the make-ahead tips and storage suggestions, you’ll find that it’s a recipe that works well for both busy schedules and meal prepping.

Enjoy this hearty, comforting skillet meal with a glass of wine, some fresh bread, and a light salad, and you’ve got a complete, flavorful dinner that’s sure to impress. Happy cooking!

Yield: 4

Chicken Sausage and Gnocchi Skillet Recipe

Chicken Sausage and Gnocchi Skillet Recipe

This Chicken Sausage and Gnocchi Skillet is a comforting, hearty, and flavorful one-pan dish that’s packed with protein, vegetables, and tender gnocchi. The combination of savory chicken sausage, crispy gnocchi, fresh vegetables, and seasonings makes it a perfect weeknight dinner. It’s quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying, plus the skillet cooking method ensures you get crispy bits of gnocchi that absorb all the flavors of the sausage and sauce.

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450g) chicken sausage (sliced into rounds)
  • 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 zucchini, sliced
  • 1 cup spinach (fresh)
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Gnocchi:
    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to the package instructions, usually until they float to the surface (about 2-3 minutes). Drain and set aside.
  2. Cook the Chicken Sausage:
    Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
    Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Sauté the Vegetables:
    In the same skillet, add the garlic, red bell pepper, and zucchini. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
    Add the spinach and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until wilted.
  4. Make the Sauce:
    Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
    Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  5. Combine:
    Return the cooked chicken sausage and gnocchi to the skillet. Toss to coat everything in the creamy sauce, and cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat through.
  6. Serve:
    Serve the chicken sausage and gnocchi skillet warm, garnished with fresh basil or parsley if desired.

Notes

  • Gnocchi: If you’re using store-bought gnocchi, be sure to cook it according to package instructions before adding it to the skillet. You can also pan-fry the gnocchi for extra crispiness if desired.
  • Sausage Options: This recipe works well with different types of sausage. If you prefer a spicier kick, try using a spicy Italian chicken sausage or even a chorizo-style sausage. If you're making a vegetarian version, plant-based sausage or mushrooms can be substituted.
  • Creaminess Adjustment: For a lighter version, swap the heavy cream for half-and-half, milk, or coconut milk. The sauce will still be rich but with a lighter feel.
  • Veggie Variations: Feel free to experiment with additional or different vegetables. Bell peppers, zucchini, spinach, and tomatoes are just a few options, but mushrooms, kale, or roasted sweet potatoes can also add variety.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free gnocchi and ensure that the sausage is gluten-free for a complete gluten-free meal. Many stores now carry gluten-free gnocchi options.
  • Make-Ahead: You can chop the veggies, cook the sausage, and boil the gnocchi ahead of time to speed up the process when you're ready to finish the dish.
  • Serving: Pair this dish with a light salad or some crusty bread to round out the meal. A glass of white wine, like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
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