One-Pan Chicken and Gnocchi

This Creamy Tuscan Chicken and Gnocchi Skillet is a dream come true for anyone craving a hearty, comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Tender pieces of seasoned chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a luscious cream sauce filled with tomatoes and spinach come together effortlessly in one pan for a dinner that’s both stunning and satisfying.

Perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend treat, this recipe brings a burst of Italian flavors to your table with minimal effort. The addition of Parmesan and fresh basil at the end elevates the dish to something that feels a little fancy while staying completely approachable for cooks of any skill level. Serve it up hot, and watch it disappear!

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 1/2 cups chicken broth
3/4 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi
2 cups baby spinach
Fresh basil, for garnish

Directions:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Season chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
In the same skillet, add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Add cherry tomatoes and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
Add the gnocchi to the skillet and cook according to package directions, about 3-5 minutes, until tender.
Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted.
Return the chicken to the skillet and mix well.
Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes

Kcal: 510 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Why One-Pan Meals Are Game-Changers

One-pan meals have become incredibly popular for good reason. They simplify the cooking process, reduce mess, and often create deeper, more layered flavors since everything cooks together. In the case of this chicken and gnocchi skillet, the chicken juices, sautéed garlic, and tomatoes meld with the broth and cream to create a sauce that’s naturally rich and full of character.

Beyond the convenience, one-pan meals like this also offer versatility. You can easily swap ingredients depending on what you have on hand, adjusting to the seasons or your dietary preferences without sacrificing flavor. It’s a beautiful illustration of how thoughtful cooking doesn’t have to be complicated.

The Magic of Gnocchi in Skillet Dishes

Gnocchi, small Italian dumplings traditionally made from potato, are a standout feature in this recipe. Unlike pasta, gnocchi has a softer, more pillowy texture that soaks up sauces beautifully. In this dish, the gnocchi cooks directly in the skillet with the broth and cream, allowing them to absorb all the flavors while becoming tender and luscious.

What’s particularly brilliant is that you don’t need to pre-boil the gnocchi. This not only saves time but also ensures the gnocchi is infused with the rich, savory sauce instead of plain water. As the gnocchi cooks, it releases a bit of starch, which naturally thickens the sauce and makes every bite incredibly satisfying.

The Flavor Profile of This Creamy Tuscan Dish

Every bite of this One-Pan Chicken and Gnocchi is an explosion of flavor. The base starts with garlic and tomatoes sautéed in olive oil, creating a fragrant, savory aroma that fills the kitchen. Adding chicken broth and heavy cream introduces richness and depth, while Parmesan cheese enhances the umami.

The Italian seasoning used on the chicken brings a familiar, herby warmth. Meanwhile, fresh spinach brightens the dish, adding a subtle bitterness that perfectly balances the richness of the cream and cheese. Fresh basil sprinkled at the end not only adds a pop of color but also a fragrant, peppery finish that ties everything together beautifully.

Nutritional Value and Balance

While this recipe is undoubtedly indulgent, it still offers a reasonable balance of nutrients. The chicken provides a solid source of lean protein, essential for muscle maintenance and energy. The spinach delivers a boost of vitamins A, C, and K, along with fiber and iron.

Gnocchi, though heavier than pasta, offer a comforting carb element that fuels the body, especially important for active lifestyles. The dish is rich in calcium thanks to the Parmesan and cream, and the fresh vegetables ensure that you’re getting important phytonutrients alongside the hearty ingredients.

Portion control is key with richer dishes like this, and because it’s so satisfying, you’ll likely find that a moderate portion is enough to feel full and happy.

Customization Ideas for This Recipe

One of the best aspects of this One-Pan Chicken and Gnocchi recipe is how easy it is to customize. Here are a few creative twists you might want to try:

Swap the Protein: Replace chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist or use sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
Change the Greens: Instead of spinach, try kale, arugula, or even Swiss chard for a different flavor and texture.
Add a Kick: If you love a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the sauce or use spicy Italian sausage instead of chicken.
Extra Vegetables: Bell peppers, zucchini, or artichoke hearts would be delicious additions to this skillet dish.
Alternative Cream Options: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy alternative for a lactose-free version that still feels indulgent.

These options allow you to keep the base idea of the recipe while tailoring it to your family’s taste preferences or dietary needs.

Perfect Occasions to Serve One-Pan Chicken and Gnocchi

This dish shines in a variety of situations. It’s quick and easy enough for a busy weeknight meal but also elegant enough for a dinner party or special gathering. Here are a few perfect moments for it:

Family Dinners: A hearty, well-rounded meal that appeals to adults and kids alike.
Date Nights at Home: Cozy, creamy, and comforting—perfect for a special night in.
Potlucks or Gatherings: Easy to transport and reheat, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Meal Prep: It holds up well for a few days, making it a great option for make-ahead lunches or dinners.

Pair it with a simple green salad and a glass of crisp white wine, and you’ve got a meal that feels effortless yet truly special.

Tips for Making the Best One-Pan Chicken and Gnocchi

Sear the Chicken Well: Browning the chicken properly builds deep, savory flavor for the entire dish.
Don’t Overcook the Gnocchi: Keep a close eye on them. They cook quickly and become delightfully tender without falling apart.
Use Fresh Basil: It really makes a difference in both flavor and presentation.
Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a thinner sauce, add a splash more chicken broth. If you want it thicker, let it simmer a little longer before adding the spinach.
Serve Immediately: This dish is best when served fresh and hot, while the sauce is silky and the gnocchi are perfectly tender.

Conclusion

The One-Pan Chicken and Gnocchi is the ultimate comfort food for anyone who loves hearty, creamy dishes with minimal effort and maximum flavor. It proves that you don’t need complicated techniques or endless dirty dishes to create something truly special. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and fresh veggies, it’s a complete, satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Whether you stick to the classic version or put your own twist on it, this dish is destined to become a staple in your recipe rotation. It’s versatile, quick, and absolutely delicious—a true testament to the beauty of one-pan cooking.