This one-pan creamy chicken and gnocchi recipe is the ultimate weeknight dinner solution. It's quick, easy, and delivers a restaurant-quality meal without the fuss. Tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a luscious creamy sauce come together in a single pan for minimal cleanup – a win-win for busy weeknights! This recipe is easily adaptable to your favorite vegetables and spice preferences, making it a versatile staple in your culinary repertoire.
What is Gnocchi?
Before we dive into the recipe, let's address a common question: What exactly is gnocchi? Gnocchi are small, soft dumplings, traditionally made from potato, semolina, or ricotta cheese. They offer a delightfully chewy texture that pairs perfectly with creamy sauces, making them a fantastic addition to this one-pan wonder. You can find them readily available in most grocery stores, often in the refrigerated section near the pasta.
One-Pan Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi Recipe
This recipe serves 4-6 people and takes approximately 30 minutes to prepare and cook.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (10 oz) package frozen gnocchi
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Sear the chicken until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir in diced tomatoes (undrained), then add the browned chicken back to the skillet.
- Add Gnocchi and Cream: Add frozen gnocchi to the skillet. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until gnocchi are cooked through and chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Finish and Serve: Stir in Parmesan cheese and fresh basil. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
This section addresses common questions surrounding this recipe, ensuring you have all the information you need for success.
Can I use different vegetables in this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. Add them along with the onions and garlic for optimal cooking.
Can I use different types of gnocchi?
While potato gnocchi are most commonly used, you can experiment with other varieties like ricotta gnocchi or sweet potato gnocchi. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the type of gnocchi you use. Always refer to the package instructions for the best results.
What if I don't have heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter sauce. However, the sauce will be less rich and creamy. You could also try using crème fraîche for a tangier flavor.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While this recipe is best served immediately, you can prepare the chicken and vegetables ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, combine everything in the skillet and cook according to the instructions. Avoid adding the gnocchi until you are ready to cook the entire dish.
How do I know if the gnocchi is cooked?
The gnocchi are cooked when they are tender and have floated to the surface of the sauce. You should be able to easily pierce them with a fork.
This one-pan creamy chicken and gnocchi recipe is a fantastic choice for a quick, easy, and delicious weeknight meal. Its simplicity and versatility make it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for busy families and those looking for a satisfying yet manageable dinner option. Enjoy!
