Imagine spooning up a steaming bowl dotted with silky cut chicken, soft gnocchi, and glossy tomato herb sauce scented with garlic and basil, the kitchen filling with a cozy, savory aroma.
This is the perfect weeknight dinner when you want something comforting and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen, or when you are looking for a simple one pan meal that still feels special.
SaveI first made this after a long day and was amazed at how quickly the store bought gnocchi turned into tender bites that soaked up the sauce, and how fast the chicken browned into juicy little nuggets of flavor.
Chicken Gnocchi Recipe
Ingredients
Protein and aromatics
Sauce and liquid
Gnocchi and finish
Instructions
- Brown the chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Stir in the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes. Remove the chicken to a plate and set aside.
- Build the sauce
In the same skillet, pour in the chicken broth, add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes if using. Scrape the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits, then bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
- Cook the gnocchi
Add the gnocchi directly to the simmering sauce, stirring gently so they are coated. Cover the skillet and let the gnocchi simmer for 3 to 5 minutes, or until they float to the surface and feel tender when poked with a fork.
- Combine chicken and greens
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir in the chopped spinach or kale. The greens will wilt into the sauce in just a couple of minutes, adding color and nutrients.
- Finish and season
Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with a pinch more salt and pepper if needed. Stir in the lemon juice and about half of the chopped parsley for a bright, fresh lift.
- Plate and garnish
Divide the chicken gnocchi among bowls, top with extra Parmesan cheese, remaining parsley, and a little cracked black pepper for aroma and visual appeal.
- Let it rest briefly
Allow the gnocchi to sit in the sauce for a minute before serving so the flavors meld and the sauce thickens slightly to a silky consistency.
- Serve immediately
Enjoy the hot, creamy chicken gnocchi with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete weeknight dinner.
Substitutions and variations
- Use ground beef or Italian sausage instead of chicken for a hearty variation.
- Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth to make it vegetarian.
- Replace tomato paste with marinara sauce if you want a smoother texture.
- Add mushrooms instead of spinach for an earthy twist.
- Swap Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
Chloe's tips
- Do not overcook the gnocchi, remove them from the heat as soon as they float to keep them pillowy and tender.
- For extra richness, add a splash of heavy cream when you pour in the chicken broth.
- If the sauce thickens too much, thin it with a little more chicken broth or water while simmering.
How to store it
- Cool leftovers quickly, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth to refresh the sauce and gnocchi texture.
Serving suggestions
Serve this comforting bowl hot, with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and cheese on top.
- Over cooked pasta or rice for a quick family dinner
- With a side salad for a lighter meal
- In shallow bowls with extra Parmesan at the table
Frequently asked questions
Can I use frozen gnocchi?
Yes, you can use frozen gnocchi. Cook them in boiling salted water until they float, then transfer with a slotted spoon to the skillet to finish in the sauce.
What is the best chicken to use for this recipe?
Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs work equally well, thighs will be more juicy but either choice delivers tender results in this quick skillet dish.
How do I keep the gnocchi from sticking together?
Add the gnocchi to the sauce in a single layer and stir gently, or cook them in a large pot of salted water before tossing into the skillet to prevent clumping.
Can I make this ahead for meal prep?
You can cook the chicken and sauce ahead and store separately, then reheat and toss with freshly cooked gnocchi to keep the texture bright.
Let's get cooking!
This easy chicken gnocchi recipe shows how simple it is to whip up a cozy, flavorful weeknight dinner that feels so handmade yet comes together in minutes, perfect for busy families and cozy evenings at home.
