Pin it Treat yourself to a restaurant-quality meal at home with this One-Pan Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi. This comforting skillet dinner features succulent chicken thighs and pillowy potato gnocchi bathed in a rich, garlicky Parmesan cream sauce, accented by fresh baby spinach for a touch of green.
Pin it This all-in-one meal is designed for efficiency without sacrificing flavor. By searing the chicken first and then letting it finish in the oven alongside the gnocchi, the flavors meld together into a cohesive, savory masterpiece that feels both rustic and sophisticated.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs (about 1.5 lbs/680 g)
- 3 cups fresh baby spinach (90 g)
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lb (450 g) shelf-stable potato gnocchi
- 1 cup heavy cream (240 ml)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (50 g), plus extra for serving
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth (120 ml)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Step 2
- Pat chicken thighs dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs.
- Step 3
- Heat olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken thighs, skin-side down, and sear for 4–5 minutes per side until golden. Transfer chicken to a plate.
- Step 4
- In the same skillet, add onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 5
- Stir in gnocchi and toast for 2 minutes, then pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
- Step 6
- Stir in Parmesan cheese, then fold in baby spinach until just wilted.
- Step 7
- Nestle chicken thighs into the creamy gnocchi mixture. Spoon some sauce over the chicken.
- Step 8
- Transfer skillet to the oven and bake uncovered for 15–18 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C) and gnocchi is tender.
- Step 9
- Remove from oven, let rest 5 minutes, then serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure success, use a large oven-safe skillet and tongs for handling the chicken. Preparation is key, so have your cutting board, knife, and measuring tools ready. Patting the chicken thighs completely dry before seasoning is the secret to achieving that perfect golden-brown sear.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can substitute chicken breasts for thighs, though you should monitor the baking time to prevent drying out. For added depth, stir in sliced mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes with the onions. Note that this recipe contains dairy and gluten; use gluten-free gnocchi and check labels for eggs if dietary restrictions apply.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this hearty skillet meal with a side of crusty bread to mop up the extra cream sauce and a crisp green salad to balance the richness. For a perfect pairing, enjoy with a glass of buttery Chardonnay or a light, refreshing Pinot Grigio.
Pin it Whether you are cooking for family or hosting a small dinner party, this One-Pan Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi is sure to impress. Simple to prepare but full of rich, complex flavors, it is the ultimate solution for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, boneless chicken breasts work well though they may cook faster. Reduce oven time to 12-15 minutes and check for doneness early to prevent drying.
- → Do I need to boil gnocchi first?
No boiling required. Shelf-stable potato gnocchi cooks directly in the creamy sauce, absorbing flavor while becoming tender. Fresh refrigerated gnocchi also works beautifully.
- → What can I substitute for heavy cream?
Half-and-half creates a lighter sauce, though it won't be quite as rich. For a dairy-free option, full-fat coconut milk adds subtle sweetness and creamy texture.
- → How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
- → Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely. Omit chicken and use vegetable broth instead. Add white beans or pan-seared mushrooms for protein, and consider extra vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.
- → Why does my sauce sometimes separate?
High heat can cause dairy to curdle. Keep the sauce at a gentle simmer, not a rolling boil. Stirring constantly while adding the cream helps maintain a smooth, emulsified texture.