One-Pot Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Easy Weeknight Meal

Looking for an easy, tasty weeknight meal? Your search ends here! This One-Pot Creamy Chicken Gnocchi is simple to make and delivers big on flavor. With tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and vibrant spinach, you’ll enjoy a comforting dish in no time. Follow my step-by-step guide and discover tips to elevate your cooking. Let’s get started on this quick and satisfying dinner that everyone will love!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 1 lb diced chicken breast

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– 1 medium diced onion

– 3 minced garlic cloves

– 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

– 16 oz potato gnocchi

– 1 cup heavy cream

– 1 cup fresh spinach

– Seasonings (Italian seasoning, salt, pepper)

– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

– Fresh parsley for garnish

In this recipe, the chicken breast is the star. I like to use fresh, diced chicken because it cooks quickly. Olive oil adds richness and helps to sauté the chicken and vegetables. The onion brings sweetness and depth to the dish. Garlic adds a punch of flavor that pairs well with the cream.

Chicken broth is key for the sauce. Using low-sodium broth keeps the dish balanced. The gnocchi gives a comforting, pillowy texture. I always choose store-bought gnocchi for convenience, but feel free to make your own if you’re feeling adventurous!

The heavy cream creates that rich, creamy sauce we love. Fresh spinach adds color and nutrients. For seasoning, I rely on Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to make the flavors pop. Don’t forget the Parmesan cheese! It finishes the dish with a salty, nutty bite. Lastly, fresh parsley adds a bright touch for garnish.

These ingredients come together to create a hearty one-pot meal. You’ll find it easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sautéing the Chicken

– Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

– Once the oil is hot, add 1 pound of diced chicken breast.

– Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning.

– Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally until it turns golden brown.

– Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside in a bowl.

Cooking the Aromatics

– In the same pot, add 1 medium diced onion.

– Sauté the onion for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent.

– Next, add 3 minced garlic cloves to the pot. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This will add a nice flavor to the dish.

Simmering and Cooking Gnocchi

– Carefully pour in 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth.

– Scrape the bottom of the pot to mix in any brown bits. This adds flavor!

– Bring the broth to a gentle simmer.

– Add 16 ounces of potato gnocchi to the simmering broth.

– Cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions, usually about 2-3 minutes. They are done when they float to the top.

Incorporating Cream and Spinach

– Reduce the heat to low and stir in 1 cup of heavy cream.

– Mix thoroughly and let the sauce thicken for about 2-3 minutes.

– Return the cooked chicken to the pot, along with 1 cup of roughly chopped fresh spinach.

– Stir gently until the spinach wilts and the chicken heats through, about 2-3 minutes.

Final Steps

– Taste the dish and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning as needed.

– Once combined and creamy, remove the pot from heat.

– Serve the dish in deep bowls, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley. This makes for a warm and inviting meal!

Tips & Tricks

How to Perfect the Creaminess

To get a thick and creamy sauce, start with the right amount of heavy cream. If you want it thicker, let it simmer longer. This helps the sauce reduce and become rich. You can also add a bit of grated cheese to boost the creaminess.

If you need alternatives to heavy cream, try using half-and-half or coconut cream. Both can give a nice texture without the extra calories. Silken tofu blended into a smooth paste can also work well for a dairy-free option.

Ensuring Perfectly Cooked Gnocchi

How do you know when gnocchi is done? Watch for them to float to the top of the pot. This means they are ready to eat. Cook gnocchi according to the package. Usually, it takes about 2-3 minutes.

To avoid overcooking, keep an eye on the time. If you leave them too long, they can become mushy. Always taste a piece to check for the right texture.

Flavor Enhancements

For added flavor, consider using fresh herbs like basil or thyme. They can brighten up the dish. You can also sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for a spice kick.

When choosing ingredients, using homemade broth can enhance the taste. But store-bought chicken broth works just fine for ease. Always opt for low-sodium options to control the saltiness.

Variations

Ingredient Swaps

You can switch up the protein in this dish. Shrimp or sausage work great. They add a nice twist. If you want a meatless option, try mushrooms or tofu. They soak up flavor well and keep it creamy.

Sauce Variations

The sauce can change based on your taste. You can use coconut cream or cashew cream for a different flavor. Adding sauces like pesto or hot sauce can spice things up. Try herbs like basil or thyme for extra depth.

Enhancing Nutritional Value

Boost the nutrition by adding more veggies. Bell peppers and carrots add color and crunch. You can also use whole wheat gnocchi for more fiber. This makes the dish healthier without losing flavor.

Storage Info

Short-term Storage

To keep your One-Pot Creamy Chicken Gnocchi fresh, store it in an airtight container. Let it cool before sealing it. This dish lasts about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Make sure to label your container with the date.

Freezing Tips

You can freeze One-Pot Creamy Chicken Gnocchi for up to 3 months. To freeze, let the dish cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring often. Add a splash of broth or cream to help with the texture.

Best Practices for Meal Prep

Cooking in batches makes weeknight meals easier. Prepare a large pot of One-Pot Creamy Chicken Gnocchi. Portion it into single servings for quick meals. This way, you can enjoy a hearty dish any night without cooking from scratch.

FAQs

Can I make One-Pot Creamy Chicken Gnocchi in advance?

Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. To prepare in advance, follow these tips:

– Cook and cool the dish completely before storing.

– Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

When you are ready to eat, just reheat it.

What can I substitute for gnocchi?

If you don’t have gnocchi, you can use other pasta. Here are some options:

– Small shells

– Penne

– Orzo

For a gluten-free option, try:

– Gluten-free pasta

– Cauliflower gnocchi

How do I reheat the leftovers?

To keep that creamy texture, reheat carefully. Here are the best methods:

– Stove: Pour the leftovers into a pot. Heat over low, stirring often until warm.

– Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between.

Both methods work well, but the stove keeps the creaminess better.

This blog explored making One-Pot Creamy Chicken Gnocchi. We discussed the main ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. You learned about variations and storage options to keep meals fresh.

This dish is simple and tasty. You can mix and match ingredients to fit your tastes. Whether you have leftovers or prep in advance, this meal fits any schedule. Enjoy cooking and sharing this dish with your friends and famil