Skillet Creamy Chicken and Parmesan Gnocchi Recipe

Skillet Creamy Chicken and Parmesan Gnocchi is a comforting and delicious meal that combines tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, offering a blend of flavors and textures that are sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1 cup spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted

Preparation

Prepping the Ingredients:

1. Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
2. Mince the garlic and grate the Parmesan cheese.
3. If using, chop the spinach and sun-dried tomatoes.

Choosing the Right Equipment:

1. Use a large skillet or sauté pan.
2. A pot for cooking the gnocchi.
3. A wooden spoon or spatula for stirring.

Cooking Instructions

Cooking the Chicken:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
3. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Preparing the Gnocchi:

1. In a pot, bring salted water to a boil.
2. Add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions until they float to the top, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Drain the gnocchi and set aside.

Combining Ingredients

Making the Creamy Sauce:

1. In the same skillet used for the chicken, add the butter and minced garlic.
2. Sauté the garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
4. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

Adding Chicken and Gnocchi to the Sauce:

1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat in the sauce.
2. Add the gnocchi and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
3. If using, add the chopped spinach and sun-dried tomatoes, stirring until the spinach is wilted.

Serving Suggestions

Ideal Side Dishes:

1. Serve with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad.
2. Pair with roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts.

Garnishing Tips:

1. Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese.
2. Add a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or basil for color.

Tips for Success

Perfecting the Sauce Consistency:

1. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or cream.
2. If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce.

Enhancing the Flavors:

1. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper before serving.
2. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Variations

Vegetarian Option:

1. Substitute the chicken with mushrooms or a plant-based protein.
2. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Gluten-Free Option:

1. Use gluten-free gnocchi.
2. Ensure all other ingredients, like chicken broth and Parmesan cheese, are gluten-free.

Storage Tips

How to Store Leftovers:

1. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
2. Freeze individual portions for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instructions:

1. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
2. Alternatively, microwave individual portions on medium heat for 2-3 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
   • Yes, turkey or pork can be used as substitutes.
2. How Long Does This Dish Stay Fresh?
   • It stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
3. Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
   • Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and reheat before adding the gnocchi.
4. How Do I Prevent the Gnocchi from Becoming Mushy?
   • Cook the gnocchi just until they float and immediately drain them.
5. What Can I Substitute for Gnocchi?
   • Use small pasta like cavatelli or mini shells as a substitute.

Conclusion

Skillet Creamy Chicken and Parmesan Gnocchi is a delightful, comforting dish that brings together tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and a rich, creamy sauce. It’s easy to make and perfect for any dinner occasion. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delicious meal with your loved ones!

Yield: 6

Skillet Creamy Chicken and Parmesan Gnocchi Recipe

Print

Skillet Creamy Chicken and Parmesan Gnocchi is a comforting and delicious meal that combines tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, offering a blend of flavors and textures that are sure to please everyone at the table.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes

Total Time 45 minutes

Ingredients

• 6 boneless chicken breasts or thighs
• kosher salt and black pepper
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1 pinch cayenne
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
• 4 slices thick cut bacon,
• 1 tablespoon fresh chopped rosemary
• 3 tablespoons salted butter
• 2 shallots, chopped
• 6 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1 cup dry white wine wine
• 1/2 cup chicken bone broth
• 1/2-1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups roughly chopped kale
• 1 pound potato gnocchi
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven 400° F. Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Add the flour, paprika, cayenne, and 1 tablespoon of thyme to a shallow bowl. Dredge the chicken through the flour mixture and toss to coat.
2. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp, about 5 minutes. During the last minute of cooking, add the rosemary. Remove the bacon to a plate.
3. In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon butter, then add the chicken. Sear on both sides until golden, 3-5 minutes per side. Add another tablespoon of butter and allow the butter to brown around the chicken, about 2 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet to a plate.
4. To the same skillet, add 1 more tablespoon of butter, the shallots, garlic, a tablespoon of thyme, and a pinch each of salt and pepper. Add the wine, then the broth. Simmer for 5 minutes, pour in the cream. Add the kale and gnocchi. Cook for 5 minutes, until the gnocchi float. Slide the chicken back into the skillet. Sprinkle over the parmesan. Transfer to the oven and cook, uncovered, for 10 minutes, until the sauce is bubbling around the chicken.
5. Serve the chicken, gnocchi, and sauce topped with bacon. YUM.