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Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi is a rich one-pan dinner made with tender chicken, potato gnocchi, spinach, Parmesan, and a velvety cream sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes.
Prep Time 9 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian-inspired

Ingredients
  

  • 1.25 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs, diced
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons cooking oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion diced
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 2 tablespoons salted butter divided
  • 1 pound dry potato gnocchi
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Cut the chicken thighs into 2-inch pieces.
  • In a large bowl, season the chicken with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
  • Heat the cooking oil in a large deep skillet over medium heat.
  • Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for about 3 minutes without stirring until browned.
  • Turn the chicken and cook for another 3 minutes until fully cooked. Transfer to a plate, leaving the flavorful drippings in the skillet.
  • Add the diced onion and garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 2 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  • Stir in the gnocchi and 1 tablespoon butter. Cook for about 2 minutes, allowing the gnocchi to lightly brown.
  • Add the spinach and vegetable broth. Cover the skillet and cook for 1–2 minutes until the spinach wilts and the gnocchi becomes tender.
  • Stir in the heavy cream and the remaining tablespoon of butter. Heat gently until the butter melts and the sauce is hot but not boiling.
  • Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese until a smooth, velvety sauce forms.
  • Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and gently stir everything together.
  • Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve the Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi immediately.

Notes

  • Use refrigerated gnocchi if that's what you have available; adjust the cooking time as needed.
  • Chicken breast can be substituted for chicken thighs.
  • Serve with crusty bread or a crisp green salad.
  • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for gentle heat