If you’re searching for a comforting, flavorful dish that feels like a warm hug in meal form, look no further than this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach Recipe. Combining pillowy gnocchi, tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes all enveloped in a luscious creamy sauce, this recipe is a delightful symphony of tastes and textures that’s both satisfying and surprisingly easy to prepare. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special weekend treat, this dish is guaranteed to become a beloved favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach Recipe plays an essential role, from the rich creaminess to the fresh bursts of flavor and beautiful color. They’re simple yet thoughtfully chosen to create a perfect balance in your meal.
- Olive oil: Adds a fruity base for sautéing chicken, bringing subtle richness and moisture.
- Chicken breast, cubed: Provides lean protein and a tender texture that pairs perfectly with gnocchi.
- Garlic powder: Gives the dish a warm, aromatic depth without overpowering.
- Onion powder: Adds subtle sweetness and enhances the savory profile.
- Paprika: Brings a mild smoky hint and lovely color to the chicken.
- Dried thyme: Offers an earthy, herbal note that’s classic in creamy sauces.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
- Chicken broth: Adds moisture and savoriness, creating a flavorful base for the sauce.
- Heavy cream: Delivers the luscious creaminess that makes this dish so indulgent.
- Cream cheese, softened: Boosts the sauce’s silky texture with a subtle tang.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Imparts sharp, nutty richness for depth.
- Butter: Enriches the sauce and adds a velvety mouthfeel.
- Gnocchi: Pillowy, tender Italian dumplings that soak up the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Fresh spinach: Adds vibrant color, freshness, and a slight earthiness that balances the richness.
- Chopped sun-dried tomatoes: Bring a sweet, tangy punch that elevates every bite.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: A bright, herbaceous garnish to finish the dish with flair.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Gnocchi with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat for that perfect shimmering surface. Toss in the cubed chicken breast and cook until each piece is no longer pink and boasts a nice golden brown, about 6 to 8 minutes. This step locks in juiciness and builds a beautiful base flavor for your sauce.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Now, sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper evenly over the chicken. Stir well to coat every morsel with these fragrant spices, which will infuse the meat with layers of savory delight as it cooks further.
Step 3: Deglaze and Simmer
Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to lift all the tasty browned bits from the skillet’s bottom. This deglazing step is crucial for adding depth to the sauce. Then lower the heat to medium-low to prepare for the creamy magic that’s about to happen.
Step 4: Build the Creamy Sauce
Add the heavy cream, softened cream cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir continuously to melt the cheeses smoothly into the broth, creating a thick, luxurious sauce. This process takes about 3 to 4 minutes, and soon you’ll have a decadent base that clings lovingly to both the chicken and gnocchi.
Step 5: Enrich the Sauce
Next, stir in a tablespoon of butter until it melts completely into the sauce, enhancing its velvety texture and richness. This extra touch rounds out the flavors and gives the dish that irresistibly silky finish.
Step 6: Cook the Gnocchi
While your sauce is gently simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions, typically 2 to 3 minutes, or until the gnocchi float to the surface. This indicates they’re perfectly tender and ready to soak up all that creamy goodness.
Step 7: Combine and Wilt Spinach
Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked gnocchi directly to the skillet with the sauce and chicken. Add fresh spinach and gently stir for 1 to 2 minutes until it wilts down, introducing a fresh, green brightness that complements the richness perfectly.
Step 8: Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Finish
Fold in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, cooking for another minute so their sweet tang warms through. Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a fresh, herbaceous finish that adds a pop of color and flavor.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Gnocchi with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach Recipe
Garnishes
For the ultimate presentation, a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and extra chopped parsley elevates the dish visually and flavor-wise. If you like a little heat, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil can add a delightful kick and shimmer.
Side Dishes
This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach Recipe shines as a complete meal on its own thanks to the well-rounded ingredients. However, a crisp green side salad, roasted asparagus, or garlic bread can provide complementary textures and flavors that round out the dining experience beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress guests or add a fun twist? Serve the gnocchi in individual shallow bowls or rustic cast iron skillets straight from stove to table, allowing everyone to dig into the comfort directly. For a colorful contrast, scatter toasted pine nuts or a few sun-dried tomato halves atop each serving for an appealing crunch and visual pop.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce might thicken upon chilling, but a gentle stir during reheating will bring it back to that perfect creamy consistency.
Freezing
Freezing this dish isn’t recommended because the cream-based sauce can separate and the gnocchi may become mushy. However, if you must freeze, portion it in freezer-safe containers and consume within one month, thawing overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and to reincorporate the sauce. Adding a splash of milk or cream while reheating helps restore the sauce’s luscious texture if it has thickened too much.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a bit more juiciness and richness due to their higher fat content, making the dish even more flavorful. Just be sure to adjust cooking time accordingly since thighs may take a touch longer to cook through.
Is it possible to use frozen spinach?
Yes, but fresh spinach is preferred for its vibrant color and texture. If using frozen, make sure it’s well drained and squeezed dry to avoid excess water diluting the sauce.
Can I substitute the cream cheese with something lighter?
You can try using Greek yogurt or a soft cheese like ricotta, but this will alter the sauce’s texture and tanginess. Cream cheese gives a rich silkiness that’s hard to replicate with lighter options.
How do I make this dish vegetarian?
Simply omit the chicken and add extra spinach or mushrooms for a hearty twist. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep the flavors balanced and satisfying.
What type of gnocchi works best?
Traditional potato gnocchi is ideal because it soaks up the sauce beautifully and remains pillowy. Fresh or store-bought gnocchi both work well, just follow package instructions for cooking.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly satisfying about a bowl of Creamy Chicken Gnocchi with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach Recipe that comforts the soul while delighting your taste buds. It’s an easy dish to make but feels special enough to share with family and friends. Next time you’re craving a creamy, flavorful meal that’s both hearty and fresh, give this recipe a try—you won’t regret it!
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Creamy Chicken Gnocchi with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 10m
- Cook Time: 0h 25m
- Total Time: 0h 35m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Creamy Crac Chicken Gnocchi is a comforting Italian-inspired dish featuring tender, seasoned chicken breast simmered in a rich, creamy sauce made from heavy cream, cream cheese, and Parmesan. The dish is elevated by pillowy gnocchi, fresh spinach for a hint of green freshness, and sun-dried tomatoes adding a subtle tangy sweetness. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this skillet-cooked meal is both flavorful and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Protein and Dairy
- 1 pound chicken breast, cubed
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter
Vegetables & Herbs
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Spices & Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Pantry Essentials
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 pound gnocchi
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat to prepare for cooking the chicken.
- Cook the chicken: Add cubed chicken breast to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, for 6-8 minutes until the pieces are lightly browned and no longer pink in the center.
- Season the chicken: Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper evenly over the chicken and stir well to coat all pieces thoroughly.
- Deglaze with broth: Pour chicken broth into the skillet, stirring to combine and scraping any browned bits from the pan’s bottom to enrich the sauce.
- Add cream and cheeses: Reduce heat to medium-low, then stir in heavy cream, softened cream cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Simmer the sauce: Stir continuously for 3-4 minutes until the cream cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Add butter: Incorporate butter into the sauce by stirring until fully melted and blended.
- Cook gnocchi: While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Boil gnocchi: Add gnocchi to boiling water and cook for 2-3 minutes or until the gnocchi float to the surface, indicating doneness.
- Drain gnocchi: Use a slotted spoon to remove gnocchi from water and transfer directly into the skillet with chicken and sauce.
- Add spinach: Stir fresh spinach into the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes until wilted and integrated into the sauce.
- Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes: Mix in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and heat through for 1 additional minute.
- Finish and garnish: Remove skillet from heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley evenly over the dish.
- Serve immediately: Plate the creamy Crac chicken gnocchi while hot, making sure to drizzle generous amounts of sauce over the chicken and gnocchi for full flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken breast with chicken thighs for a juicier texture.
- For a lighter version, replace heavy cream and cream cheese with half-and-half or Greek yogurt, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
- If sun-dried tomatoes are not available, roasted red peppers work well as an alternative.
- Fresh spinach can be swapped with kale or Swiss chard if preferred.
- Use gluten-free gnocchi to adapt this recipe for gluten-free diets.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and gently reheated on the stovetop.
