One Pan Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi
This one pan creamy chicken and gnocchi is a cozy, weeknight-friendly dinner made with tender chicken, soft potato gnocchi, spinach, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce. Everything cooks in a single skillet for minimal cleanup and maximum comfort—perfect when you want a hearty, homemade meal without the fuss.
Ingredients
- Main Ingredients
- 1½ lbs chicken breasts or thighs cut into bite-sized pieces
- 16 oz shelf-stable potato gnocchi
- 3 cups fresh baby spinach
- Flavor Base & Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup chicken broth
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Pantry Staples
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken
- Pat chicken dry with paper towels.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly golden.
- Build Flavor
- Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Cook the Gnocchi
- Stir in gnocchi and reduce heat to medium.
- Cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring gently, until gnocchi begin to soften.
- Make It Creamy
- Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine.
- Simmer for 4–5 minutes, until sauce thickens slightly.
- Finish the Dish
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
- Add spinach and cook just until wilted.
- Rest & Serve
- Remove from heat and rest for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with extra Parmesan, cracked black pepper, or fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- Keep heat moderate once cream is added to prevent separating.
- Gnocchi cook quickly—avoid overcooking to keep them pillowy.
- Add a splash of broth if the sauce thickens too much.