Description
This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi is a one-pan wonder featuring tender chicken, soft gnocchi, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes in a rich garlic cream sauce. A comforting, restaurant-quality dinner ready in just 30 minutes!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-size pieces)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (in oil, drained and chopped)
- 2 cups baby spinach, fresh
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 pound potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish
Optional Additions:
- Substitute shrimp for chicken for a seafood version.
- Add mushrooms or artichoke hearts for more veggies.
- Use half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then cook until golden brown and cooked through (about 5–7 minutes). Remove from skillet and set aside. - Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same pan, add minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and sauté for 1 minute. - Build the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits. Add the heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Stir and let simmer for 2–3 minutes. - Add Gnocchi and Spinach:
Stir in the gnocchi (no need to pre-boil) and simmer for 5–6 minutes until tender and the sauce thickens. Add the spinach and cook until wilted. - Combine and Serve:
Return the chicken to the skillet and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Garnish with parsley or basil and serve hot.
Notes
- One-pan trick: No need to pre-cook the gnocchi — it will cook perfectly in the sauce.
- Adjust consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or milk.
- Add texture: A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or extra Parmesan gives a great finish.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of cream.
- Make it spicy: Add extra red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil for a kick.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
