Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Recipe

If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food that’s both quick to make and luxuriously satisfying, Creamy Chicken Gnocchi is calling your name. This rich and velvety skillet dish marries pillowy gnocchi, tender chicken, and a garlicky cream sauce that hugs every bite. Each forkful brims with Parmesan, baby spinach, and fragrant Italian herbs, guaranteeing you a restaurant-worthy meal in the comfort of your own kitchen. Trust me, once you’ve tried this flavor-packed Creamy Chicken Gnocchi, it’ll earn a regular place at your weeknight table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Creamy Chicken Gnocchi is how a handful of uncomplicated ingredients come together to create something truly memorable. Every ingredient here plays a role: the juicy chicken, the creamy sauce, and of course, the dreamy gnocchi. Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

• Olive oil: For searing the chicken and kickstarting the flavor base of the dish.
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and depth to the sauce while helping brown the chicken beautifully.
• Chicken breast: Diced chicken cooks quickly and stays super tender in the creamy sauce.
• Garlic cloves: Four cloves dial up the aroma and infuse the sauce with irresistible flavor.
• Dry white wine: The wine deglazes the pan and adds brightness that balances the creamy elements.
• Italian seasoning mix: A simple blend of herbs that instantly ramps up that classic Italian flavor.
• Chicken stock: Forms the base of the sauce and infuses even more savory goodness into the gnocchi.
• Cream cheese: Melts into the sauce for that signature creamy, luscious texture.
• Gnocchi: The star of the show—those soft, pillowy bites soak up every drop of sauce.
• Baby spinach: Adds color, freshness, and a nutritional boost without overwhelming the dish.
• Grated Parmesan: Brings salty, umami punch while thickening and finishing the sauce.
• Freshly ground black pepper: A final flourish to wake up every other flavor and add a bit of heat.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Gnocchi

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Start by heating olive oil in a large, deep pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the unsalted butter and let it fully melt until foamy. Add the diced chicken breast into the pan, spreading it out in an even layer. Let the chicken cook undisturbed for 4 to 5 minutes, allowing it to develop a delicious golden crust while remaining juicy on the inside. Give it a gentle stir to brown all sides.

Step 2: Infuse with Garlic

Once the chicken is golden, toss in the minced garlic. Stir the pan and let that garlic work its aromatic magic for about a minute. You’ll instantly smell that deep, savory aroma as it infuses into the oil and butter, building flavor for the entire Creamy Chicken Gnocchi dish.

Step 3: Deglaze and Build the Sauce

Pour in the dry white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes, allowing most of the alcohol to evaporate while a subtle richness remains. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and pour in the chicken stock. Bring everything up to a gentle simmer, setting the stage for a supremely creamy sauce.

Step 4: Melt in the Cream Cheese

Now, add the cream cheese directly into the simmering liquid. Use your spoon to break it down, stirring continuously as it melts and blends into the stock. In just a few minutes, you’ll find yourself with a velvety, luscious sauce that’s practically begging for gnocchi.

Step 5: Cook the Gnocchi and Spinach

Tumble in the uncooked gnocchi and roughly shredded baby spinach. Give everything a good stir, then cover the pan with a lid. Let it all steam and cook for 3 to 5 minutes—the gnocchi will become perfectly tender and the spinach will wilt, swirling its color and nutrients right into the sauce.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Switch off the heat and immediately stir in the grated Parmesan. The cheese will melt into the sauce, thickening it even further. Taste and add a few grinds of black pepper (and a sprinkle of salt, if needed). There you have it—Creamy Chicken Gnocchi ready to serve piping hot.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Gnocchi

Garnishes

For the perfect finish, try a shower of extra grated Parmesan and a dusting of freshly cracked black pepper right before serving. If you want to add a splash of color, scatter a few torn basil leaves or a sprinkle of chopped parsley. A drizzle of good olive oil can also give the Creamy Chicken Gnocchi a luxurious sheen and an extra pop of flavor.

Side Dishes

This dish is plenty filling on its own, but pairing it with a crisp mixed salad or lightly roasted vegetables adds freshness and balance. A warm, crusty baguette or soft dinner rolls are fantastic for soaking up any leftover creamy sauce—because you won’t want to leave a single drop behind!

Creative Ways to Present

Creamy Chicken Gnocchi is perfect for sharing straight from the skillet for that cozy, family-style vibe. For a special occasion, serve it in shallow pasta bowls with a swoop of sauce and a green garnish for restaurant-worthy plate appeal. You can even spoon portions into small ramekins for a fun tapas-style dinner party centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer your Creamy Chicken Gnocchi leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. They’ll keep beautifully for up to three days—perfect for a quick, comforting lunch the next day. The flavors often deepen overnight, making each bite even more delicious.

Freezing

If you happen to have extra, you can freeze Creamy Chicken Gnocchi! Place cooled portions in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty bag and freeze for up to two months. Let them thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve that creamy sauce and tender texture.

Reheating

Gently reheat Creamy Chicken Gnocchi on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or stock to help loosen the sauce if needed. Microwave reheating also works—just cover and heat in short bursts, stirring in between to prevent overcooking. Serve hot and enjoy that same silky texture all over again!

FAQs

Can I use leftover roast chicken instead of cooking fresh chicken breast?

Absolutely! Leftover roast or rotisserie chicken works wonderfully. Just add it after the garlic step, heating it through before following the rest of the recipe. You’ll save time and add a richer, roasted flavor to your Creamy Chicken Gnocchi.

Is there a way to make Creamy Chicken Gnocchi gluten free?

Yes, simply look for a gluten-free gnocchi brand and verify your chicken stock is gluten free. All the other ingredients are naturally gluten free, so you’ll be able to enjoy all the comfort without worry.

Can I add extra veggies to this recipe?

Definitely! Mushrooms, peas, sun-dried tomatoes, or even sautéed zucchini would be lovely additions. Just be sure not to overload the pan so that the sauce stays creamy and rich—this recipe is a fantastic canvas for your favorite veggies.

What can I substitute for cream cheese?

If you prefer, mascarpone or a thick, full-fat Greek yogurt can be used as a swap for cream cheese. Both create a creamy sauce—just taste as you go for seasoning, since each dairy option has a unique tang or sweetness.

Can I use store-bought gnocchi or do I need homemade?

Store-bought gnocchi works perfectly and keeps things quick and convenient. If you’re feeling adventurous and want to try homemade, go for it—the Creamy Chicken Gnocchi will taste even more special, but the recipe adapts beautifully to either option.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi is more than just a crowd-pleaser—it’s a cozy, soul-warming meal you’ll find yourself craving again and again. I hope you give this recipe a try and experience just how easy (and delicious) a homemade Italian-inspired comfort classic can be!

Print