Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Pan

This creamy chicken gnocchi pan combines tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes all coated in a rich Parmesan sauce, making it a comforting meal perfect for weeknights when you want something satisfying but not complicated.

This recipe quickly became a favorite in my house after I made it on a hectic weeknight. Now it’s a go-to when I want something cozy but quick.

Ingredients

• Two large chicken breasts: cubed for protein and heartiness
• Half a cup of flour: mixed with spices to create a flavorful coating that crisps up the chicken
• Half a teaspoon each of salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder: for seasoning the chicken evenly
• Two tablespoons of olive oil and two tablespoons of butter: to cook the chicken and build a rich base
• Two tablespoons minced garlic: adds aromatic depth to the sauce
• One cup of chicken broth: to provide a savory foundation
• One cup of heavy cream: creates the luscious, creamy sauce
• One cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese: for umami and a nutty finish
• A half teaspoon each of oregano and thyme: for subtle herbal notes
• A half teaspoon of red pepper flakes: to add a bit of warmth without overpowering
• One-third cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes: brings acidity and chewiness that balances the creaminess
• One package of gnocchi: makes the dish pillowy and satisfying, opt for fresh gnocchi if possible for best texture

Step-by-Step Instructions

Searing the Chicken:

Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Prepare the chicken by dredging the cubes in a mixture of flour, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Cook the chicken for about four to five minutes per side until golden and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove the chicken and set aside to keep warm.

Building the Sauce:

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add minced garlic. Sauté briefly until fragrant but not burnt. Pour in chicken broth followed by heavy cream and sprinkle in Parmesan cheese while stirring continuously. This gentle simmer will help the cheese melt smoothly and thicken the sauce.

Adding Brightness and Spice:

Mix in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, red pepper flakes, oregano, and thyme. Let the sauce simmer on medium low heat for a few minutes to blend flavors and soften the tomatoes.

Cooking the Gnocchi:

Add the gnocchi directly to the skillet and cover it to cook for two to three minutes or until tender. Gnocchi absorbs some of the sauce while cooking and becomes luxuriously soft.

Bringing It All Together:

Return the cooked chicken pieces to the skillet and stir everything well so the sauce envelops the chicken and gnocchi evenly. Serve this creamy dish immediately for best texture.

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I especially love the sun-dried tomatoes in this recipe because they add wonderful texture and a burst of bold flavor that lifts the entire dish. It reminds me of a family dinner where we all gathered around and everyone kept reaching for seconds.

Storage Tips

This dish stores well in an airtight container refrigerated for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from breaking. Avoid microwaving as it can make the cream sauce separate.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you want a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half and half though the sauce will be a bit less rich. You can swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano for a sharper, saltier flavor. If sun-dried tomatoes are not your favorite, roasted red peppers add a similar sweetness and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve alongside a simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. A side of steamed green beans or garlic sautéed spinach adds color and freshness to the plate. A crusty piece of bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce.

Pro Tips

• Make sure to toast the garlic just until fragrant to avoid bitterness in the sauce
• Do not overcrowd the pan when cooking chicken so it browns nicely instead of steaming
• Fresh gnocchi cooks faster and tastes lighter but frozen gnocchi works fine, just adjust cooking time slightly

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I ensure the chicken stays tender and juicy?

Coating the chicken in seasoned flour before searing locks in moisture, while cooking it over medium-high heat ensures a golden exterior without drying the meat.

→ Can I substitute the heavy cream for a lighter option?

Replacing heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk is possible but may result in a thinner sauce; simmer gently to prevent curdling.

→ What’s the best way to cook the gnocchi in this dish?

Add the gnocchi directly to the simmering sauce, cover, and cook briefly until tender, absorbing flavors without breaking apart.

→ How do sun-dried tomatoes influence the flavor profile?

They add a concentrated, tangy sweetness and slightly chewy texture that balance the richness of the cream and parmesan.

→ Which herbs complement this dish best?

Oregano, thyme, and a hint of red pepper flakes contribute earthy, aromatic notes and subtle heat enhancing the overall depth.