Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Recipe

If there’s one thing I love more than comfort food, it’s comfort food that doesn’t leave a sink full of dishes. And this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Recipe delivers exactly that! Tender chicken thighs, pillowy potato gnocchi, earthy mushrooms, and fresh spinach come together in a rich, creamy garlic sauce—all in one skillet.

Whether you’re craving something cozy for a Sunday dinner or need a weeknight lifesaver, this is one of those family-friendly meals that always hits the spot.

I still remember the first time I made this dish—my youngest literally licked her plate, and my husband asked for seconds before he even finished the first round. That’s how I knew it was a keeper!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Recipe

• 🥚 One-skillet dinner = less cleanup!
• ⏱ Ready in under 45 minutes
• 🥒 Rich, creamy garlic sauce made with simple ingredients
• 🌿 Fresh spinach for color and nutrients
• 🤔 Easy to adapt: try cream cheese or Alfredo sauce variations
• 👩‍🍳 Beginner-friendly and impressive enough for guests

Plus, it reheats beautifully—perfect for leftovers or meal prep lunches.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Keeping things simple but flavorful is the goal here. You can find all these ingredients at your local grocery store. No fancy stuff required!

🐔 Chicken

• 1.3 lb chicken thighs, skinless and boneless
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

🍄 Mushrooms

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 8 oz crimini mushrooms, sliced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

🥚 Gnocchi + Sauce

• 16 oz potato gnocchi
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (or Herbs de Provence)
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 5 oz fresh spinach
• Salt and coarsely ground black pepper, to taste
• Red pepper flakes, to taste (optional)

You can swap in cream cheese for a thicker sauce, or even try gnocchi Alfredo chicken style by replacing the broth with Alfredo sauce.

🍼 Step-by-Step Instructions

Even if you’re new to cooking, don’t stress—this recipe is incredibly forgiving. Grab your favorite skillet, and let’s go!

1. Cook the Chicken

1. Season chicken thighs with Italian seasoning, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium for 2 minutes (cast iron works best).
3. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and place the chicken thighs in, seasoned side down.
4. Cook 5 minutes undisturbed, then flip.
5. Reduce heat to low-medium, cook for another 5-7 minutes until fully cooked (165°F internal temp).
6. Remove chicken and set aside.

Tip: Don’t move the chicken around while it sears—it needs uninterrupted heat to get that perfect golden crust.

2. Sauté the Mushrooms

1. In the same skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil.
2. Add sliced mushrooms, season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook on high heat for 1-2 minutes, until golden and softened.
4. Remove mushrooms and set aside.

Pro Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook mushrooms in batches if needed to avoid steaming.

3. Make the Creamy Gnocchi Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add gnocchi, chicken broth, heavy cream, garlic, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
2. Bring to a boil on medium heat.
3. Cover and cook for 5 minutes, stirring halfway.
4. Add spinach, and cook another 5 minutes, stirring often until wilted.
5. Adjust consistency: cook longer for a thicker sauce.

If you’re using cream cheese, add it during the last few minutes and stir well until melted and smooth.

4. Put It All Together

1. Stir in half of the mushrooms.
2. Season with salt, coarse pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
3. Return cooked chicken to the skillet.
4. Top with the remaining mushrooms.

Optional: Garnish with parmesan, fresh herbs, or a drizzle of garlic oil!

🥬 What to Serve with Creamy Chicken Gnocchi

This dish is filling on its own, but here are a few pairings that really bring the meal together:

• Garlic bread or sourdough toast for soaking up that creamy sauce
• Roasted asparagus or Brussels sprouts for a veggie side
• Simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette for a fresh bite
• Crispy pancetta for added crunch and saltiness

📆 Storage Tips

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Use a skillet over low heat or microwave in short bursts with a splash of broth or cream.

The flavors get even better the next day. It’s one of those meals that reheats like a dream!

🤔 FAQs About Creamy Chicken Gnocchi

What is creamy chicken gnocchi?

A one-pan comfort dish with soft potato gnocchi, seasoned chicken, and a creamy garlic-herb sauce.

What protein pairs well with gnocchi?

Besides chicken, try shrimp, sausage, pancetta, or even crispy tofu.

What does gnocchi go best with?

Cream-based sauces, pesto, tomato sauces, sautéed greens, or even brown butter.

How to thicken the sauce?

Let it simmer uncovered, add cream cheese, or use a cornstarch slurry.

Is gnocchi pasta or potato?

It’s technically a potato dumpling, though often grouped with pasta. Delicious either way!

Can I make it ahead?

Yes! Make the dish and refrigerate. Add a splash of cream or broth when reheating.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Totally! Just skip the cooking step and stir it in at the end.

Can this be made vegetarian?

Yes! Omit the chicken and use veggie broth. You can add white beans or more mushrooms for protein.

🔗 Related Recipes You’ll Also Love

• One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice – Cozy and comforting just like this
• Creamy Boursin Chicken – Rich, cheesy, and indulgent
• Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup – A creamy classic for soup lovers

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