Ready in: 30 minutes · Serves: 4 · Technique: Stovetop · Storage: Up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Quick Answer
Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi is a comforting dish perfect for cozy nights, combining savory chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a rich creamy sauce.
As the bustling holiday season approaches here in New York City, I find comfort in the cozy corners of my kitchen, where the scent of savory dishes fills the air. One dish that has quickly become a go-to favorite during this time is Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi. Imagine sitting down with friends or family after a long day of holiday shopping, surrounded by the warmth and love of home-cooked meals. This creamy, delightful dish is the perfect comfort food for chilly evenings.
A Cozy Holiday Treat
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Comfort food that's perfect for chilly evenings.
- The creamy sauce envelops the gnocchi and chicken in pure deliciousness.
- Simple ingredients come together to create a dish that feels gourmet.
- Perfect for sharing with friends and family during the holiday season.
- A recipe that showcases the importance of quality ingredients.
Ingredients
To make Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi, you'll want to gather the following ingredients:
Protein
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs (the flavor is unbeatable)
Vegetables
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (fresh is key for maximum flavor)
- 1 cup carrots, diced (for a touch of sweetness)
- 1 cup celery, diced
Herbs and Broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (a wonderful herb that pairs beautifully)
- 4 cups chicken broth (homemade, if possible, for the best results)
Pasta and Cream
- 1 pound potato gnocchi (I prefer the soft, pillowy variety)
- 1 cup heavy cream (for that luxurious texture)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (never skimp on the cheese!)
Seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi (Step-by-Step)
This hearty dish comes together seamlessly, perfect for anyone looking to delight their loved ones.
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken to the pot and sear until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per side. The aroma of the chicken caramelizing is simply irresistible.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside. In that same pot, add the minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté until they soften, about 4-5 minutes. You'll love how the vegetables begin to release their natural sweetness.
Step 3: Add the Broth and Gnocchi
Return the chicken to the pot, pour in the chicken broth, and sprinkle in the dried thyme. Bring this mixture to a simmer. Add the potato gnocchi and cook according to the package instructions, typically around 3-5 minutes. The gnocchi will puff up and soak up all the lovely flavors.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Once the gnocchi is cooked, reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Whisk until the mixture is glossy and the cheese is melted, about 2-3 minutes. The creamy sauce clings to the gnocchi and chicken, making every bite heavenly.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary. Sprinkle a little extra Parmesan on top before serving, and I recommend some fresh parsley for a pop of color!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the searing step: Searing the chicken adds depth and flavor to the dish.
- Overcooking the gnocchi: They should be soft but still have a slight bite; follow package instructions closely.
- Using cold cream: Bring your heavy cream to room temperature before adding it in to help it meld seamlessly.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- For an extra layer of flavor, add a splash of white wine after sautéing the vegetables and let it reduce before adding the broth.
- I love incorporating seasonal greens like spinach or kale about a minute before serving for added nutrition and a vibrant color contrast.
- If you want to lighten the dish, substitute half of the heavy cream with milk or even a plant-based cream.
Variations
- Use chicken breast instead of thighs for a leaner option.
- Replace potato gnocchi with whole wheat or gluten-free gnocchi.
- Add mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
- Incorporate other vegetables such as peas or zucchini to enhance nutritional value.
How to Serve
- Top with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
- Serve with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Pair with a light salad for a balanced meal.
- Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese before serving.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and vegetables in advance and store them separately until ready to cook.
- Storage: This creamy delight can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of extra chicken broth or cream to restore its creamy texture.
- Freezing: It's not recommended to freeze as the cream can change texture upon thawing.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
After making this dish several times, I've learned that the quality of your chicken broth truly elevates the overall flavor. Investing in good ingredients pays off immensely in every comforting bowl. Plus, there's nothing like sharing a cozy meal with loved ones during the holiday season. Enjoy your cooking journey!
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 4 servings · Serving Size: 1 bowl
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~500 calories · 25g protein · 40g carbs · 30g fat
Recipe by:
Comforting Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken to the pot and sear until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per side.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside. In that same pot, add the minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté until they soften, about 4-5 minutes.
- Return the chicken to the pot, pour in the chicken broth, and sprinkle in the dried thyme. Bring this mixture to a simmer. Add the potato gnocchi and cook according to the package instructions, typically around 3-5 minutes.
- Once the gnocchi is cooked, reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Whisk until the mixture is glossy and the cheese is melted, about 2-3 minutes.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary. Sprinkle a little extra Parmesan on top before serving, and I recommend some fresh parsley for a pop of color!
Notes
FAQs
What can I substitute for heavy cream in this recipe?
If you want to lighten the dish, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with milk or a plant-based cream. This will still provide a creamy texture while reducing the richness.
How can I make this dish more nutritious?
To add some nutrition, consider incorporating seasonal greens like spinach or kale just before serving. This not only boosts the health factor but also adds a vibrant color contrast to the dish.
Can I freeze Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi?
While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the dish. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. However, the texture may change slightly upon reheating, so add a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore creaminess when warming it up.
