Introduction

Welcome to this delicious recipe for Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi. This dish is a perfect combination of tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a creamy sauce that will leave you craving for more. Whether you are looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for a special occasion, this recipe has got you covered. So let’s dive in and learn how to make this mouthwatering dish step by step.

Ingredients

Before we begin, let’s gather all the ingredients we’ll need:

– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

– 1 small onion, finely chopped

– 2 garlic cloves, minced

– 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced

– 1 teaspoon dried thyme

– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

– 1 cup chicken broth

– 1 cup heavy cream

– 1 pound store-bought or homemade gnocchi

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Steps

Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s start cooking:

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic becomes fragrant. Then, add the sliced mushrooms and continue cooking until they are tender.

Step 3: Add the Herbs and Sauce

Sprinkle the dried thyme and rosemary over the mushroom mixture. Stir to combine and let the herbs release their flavors. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Allow the sauce to reduce slightly for about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Make it Creamy

Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and stir well to combine it with the sauce. Let the mixture simmer for a few more minutes until it thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste.

Step 5: Cook the Gnocchi

In a separate pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to the package instructions or until they float to the top. Drain the gnocchi and add them to the creamy sauce in the skillet.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Give everything a gentle stir to coat the gnocchi with the creamy sauce. Transfer the dish to a serving plate or individual bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of freshness and color.

Variations

This recipe offers plenty of room for creativity. Here are a few variations you can try:

– Add some cooked bacon or pancetta for an extra smoky flavor.

– Stir in some frozen peas or spinach for a burst of color and added nutrients.

– Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese or shredded mozzarella on top for a cheesy twist.

– Substitute the chicken with cooked shrimp or diced ham for a seafood or meaty alternative.

Tips

To make the most out of this recipe, keep the following tips in mind:

– Use homemade gnocchi for an even more authentic and flavorful experience, but store-bought gnocchi works just fine.

– Don’t overcrowd the skillet when cooking the chicken. Cook it in batches if necessary to ensure each piece gets nicely browned.

– Feel free to adjust the thickness of the sauce by adding more or less cream. You can also use half-and-half or milk for a lighter version.

– Taste and adjust the seasoning as you go. Everyone’s preference for salt and pepper may vary, so trust your taste buds.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi is a delightful dish that brings together the simplicity of chicken and the comfort of gnocchi in a creamy sauce. With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. So why not give it a try and indulge in this deliciously creamy and hearty meal?

FAQs

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the leftovers of Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

While gnocchi is the traditional pasta used in this recipe, you can certainly experiment with other types of pasta. Penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti can work well with the creamy chicken sauce. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the creamy sauce and cook the chicken in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the sauce in a skillet, add the cooked chicken, and proceed with the remaining steps.

What can I serve with Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi?

This dish is quite filling on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad or some steamed vegetables to add freshness and balance to the meal. A crusty bread or garlic breadsticks would also be a great addition to soak up the creamy sauce.

Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi

Introduction

Ingredients