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This creamy chicken and gnocchi skillet brings restaurant-worthy flavors right to your stovetop It is rich comforting and dotted with tangy sun dried tomatoes all while being easy enough for a weeknight or special enough for date night The sauce hugs every bite of pillowy gnocchi and tender golden chicken turning simple ingredients into a one pan wonder
The first time I tried this for a stay in date dinner it was love at first bite My husband asked if we could have it for every special occasion since
Ingredients
- Chicken breast: sliced thin ensures fast even cooking Choose firm plump breasts with no bruising
- Salt and pepper: bring out flavor Use flaky sea salt and freshly cracked pepper if possible
- Paprika: adds a mellow savoriness and color Try smoked paprika for a deeper note
- Olive oil: sears chicken beautifully Use extra virgin for best flavor
- Potato gnocchi: gives this dish its signature comfort Buy shelf stable for convenience or go for handmade if you want a treat
- Unsalted butter: forms the sauce base Reach for authentic European style butter if available
- Fresh garlic: gives bold savory aroma Opt for firm cloves with unbroken skins
- Sun dried tomatoes: infuse tang and umami Look for those packed in olive oil for best texture
- Dried Italian herbs: round out flavors A blend with oregano basil thyme and rosemary works beautifully
- Crushed red pepper: offers gentle heat Add more or less to suit your preference
- Chicken broth: creates a savory foundation Choose low sodium if you want more control
- Heavy cream: brings richness Use high quality cream for the best silky sauce
- Parmesan cheese: melts into the sauce for depth Shred your own for fresh nutty taste
- Baby spinach: wilts quickly into the sauce giving color and nutrients Pick bright green tender leaves
- Fresh basil: on top delivers a burst of freshness Tear just before serving for full aroma
- Extra Parmesan: to shower over at the end Nothing tops a snowy pile of cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Season the Chicken:
- Sprinkle chicken cutlets evenly with salt pepper and paprika on both sides Aim for a light even dusting to ensure all pieces are flavorful
- Sear the Chicken:
- Pour olive oil into a deep skillet and heat over medium high Once shimmering add chicken in a single layer Sear for three to four minutes per side without disturbing until golden and just cooked through Transfer to a plate and cover loosely with foil
- Build the Aromatic Base:
- Add butter to the same skillet lower heat to medium Once melted add garlic Stir constantly for thirty seconds until you smell a rich garlic aroma and see slight golden coloring
- Sauté Tomatoes and Herbs:
- Stir in the sun dried tomatoes Italian herbs and crushed red pepper flakes Cook for about one minute until tomatoes are glossy and herbs are fragrant Do not let the garlic brown
- Deglaze and Simmer:
- Pour in the chicken broth Scrape the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon to collect all the tasty browned bits Let mixture reach a gentle simmer so flavors can meld
- Cook the Gnocchi:
- Add gnocchi right to the simmering sauce Cover with a lid and cook for about three to four minutes stir halfway Gnocchi should plump up and become tender
- Creamy Sauce Finish:
- Lower the heat and pour in heavy cream Slowly sprinkle in Parmesan cheese Stir gently until cheese is melted and you have a creamy smooth sauce
- Add Greens and Adjust:
- Add baby spinach Gently stir it into the hot sauce until just wilted Taste and add more salt or pepper if needed
- Return Chicken and Heat Through:
- Nestle the chicken pieces into the gnocchi and sauce Spoon over the sauce and simmer for two minutes so everything is heated through
- Garnish and Serve:
- Top with plenty of fresh basil and extra Parmesan Serve hot straight from the skillet for best effect
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Storage Tips
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days To reheat add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce and warm gently on the stove or in the microwave Avoid freezing as the dairy sauce may split though the flavor still shines
Ingredient Substitutions
Boneless chicken thighs work just as well as breasts For a vegetarian option sub with sautéed mushrooms or store bought plant based chicken Gluten free gnocchi can be used for those sensitive Swap sun dried tomatoes for roasted red peppers if you prefer a softer tang
Serving Suggestions
Serve this skillet with a simple green salad and a crisp glass of white wine A hunk of crusty bread will help scoop up every last drop of sauce For a lighter side consider roasted asparagus or garlic sautéed green beans
Cultural Notes
Gnocchi is a beloved Italian staple but the creamy sauce in this dish gives a nod to American comfort food style This blend brings together familiar flavors in a way that feels both homey and a bit special perfect for impressing or celebrating with loved ones
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Common Questions
- → Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work well and add extra juiciness to the skillet.
- → What kind of gnocchi should I use?
Both shelf-stable and fresh potato gnocchi will work—simply adjust cook time as needed.
- → Can the cream be substituted for a lighter option?
For a lighter sauce, you may use half-and-half or light cream in place of heavy cream.
- → Is this dish gluten-free?
The meal contains gluten if standard gnocchi is used; opt for gluten-free gnocchi if necessary.
- → What wine pairs best with this dish?
A crisp Pinot Grigio complements the creamy sauce and balances the richness beautifully.
- → How can I add more vegetables?
Try adding mushrooms or sautéed zucchini along with the spinach for extra depth and nutrition.