Creamy Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Recipe
Creamy Lemon Chicken Gnocchi is a delightful combination of tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a creamy lemon sauce that’s bursting with flavor. In this article, we’ll explore how to make this comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
1. Introduction to Creamy Lemon Chicken Gnocchi
Creamy Lemon Chicken Gnocchi is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken breast with soft, potato-based gnocchi in a rich and creamy lemon sauce. The tangy brightness of the lemon pairs perfectly with the savory chicken and creamy sauce, creating a dish that’s both comforting and refreshing.
2. Ingredients Needed
To make Creamy Lemon Chicken Gnocchi, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Chicken Breast
- Gnocchi
- Lemon
- Garlic
- Heavy Cream
- Parmesan Cheese
- Fresh Herbs (such as parsley or thyme)
- Salt and Pepper
3. Preparing the Ingredients
Start by cooking the chicken breast until golden brown and cooked through. Meanwhile, cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions until they float to the surface, then drain and set aside.
To make the creamy lemon sauce, sauté minced garlic in a skillet until fragrant, then add heavy cream, lemon zest, and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Simmer the sauce until it thickens slightly, then stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
4. Cooking Instructions
Slice the cooked chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. In the same skillet used to make the sauce, sauté the chicken until heated through and lightly browned.
Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet with the chicken, then pour the creamy lemon sauce over the top. Stir gently to combine, making sure the gnocchi and chicken are evenly coated in the sauce.
5. Serving Suggestions
To serve Creamy Lemon Chicken Gnocchi, garnish it with chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, and additional lemon zest for a burst of freshness. Serve the dish hot, accompanied by a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
6. Variations and Customizations
Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences. You can add vegetables like spinach or peas to the dish for added color and nutrition. Experiment with different herbs or citrus fruits to vary the flavor profile of the dish. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free gnocchi, and for a dairy-free version, use a plant-based cream alternative.
7. Tips for Success
To ensure that your Creamy Lemon Chicken Gnocchi turns out perfectly every time, follow these tips:
- Cook the gnocchi until al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy.
- Adjust the consistency of the sauce to your preference by adding more cream or cheese if needed.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken, which should reach 165°F (75°C) when fully cooked.
8. Health Benefits of Creamy Lemon Chicken Gnocchi
Creamy Lemon Chicken Gnocchi is not only delicious but also nutritious. Chicken breast is a lean source of protein, while gnocchi provides carbohydrates for energy. Lemon adds vitamin C and antioxidants to the dish, while garlic is known for its immune-boosting properties.
9. Conclusion
In conclusion, Creamy Lemon Chicken Gnocchi is a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and creamy lemon sauce, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Whether you serve it for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, Creamy Lemon Chicken Gnocchi is sure to impress.
Source: saltandlavender.com
Creamy Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Recipe
Creamy Lemon Chicken Gnocchi is a delightful combination of tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a creamy lemon sauce that's bursting with flavor. In this article, we'll explore how to make this comforting and satisfying dish that's perfect for any occasion.
- 2 large chicken breasts
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning see note
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
- 1 pound uncooked potato gnocchi
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cups packed fresh baby spinach
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Cut the chicken in half lengthwise so you've got 4 thinner cutlets. Season each side with the garlic powder and lemon pepper. If the lemon pepper seasoning you're using doesn't contain salt, be sure to salt the chicken as well.
- Add the oil and butter to a skillet over medium-high heat and let the pan heat up for a few minutes. Sear the chicken for about 5-6 minutes/side or until it's golden and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate (tent with foil to keep warm if you wish).
- Reduce the heat to medium and add the garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds.
- Stir in the chicken broth and lemon juice and scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Add in the cream and gnocchi. Give it a good stir and ensure the gnocchi is submerged in the liquid. Let it bubble gently, uncovered, for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until the gnocchi is cooked and the sauce has thickened. The gnocchi will release starch as it cooks, thickening up the sauce, so do not pre-cook the gnocchi. Keep in mind the sauce will thicken more as it cools, so don't let it get too thick (add a splash more broth if needed).
- Take the pan off the heat and add in the parmesan cheese and spinach. Toss until the spinach has started to wilt and it's nicely mixed in. Add the chicken back into the skillet (along with any juices from the plate) and spoon some sauce over top. Season with salt & pepper as needed and serve immediately.