Lemon Chicken Gnocchi

Lemon Chicken Gnocchi is a creamy, zesty, and satisfying one-pan meal that brings together tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a luscious lemon-parmesan sauce. This dish strikes a perfect balance between comfort and brightness, making it a delicious dinner option that’s quick and simple to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy — ready in just 30 minutes
• One-pan convenience for easy cleanup
• Bright, tangy lemon flavor balanced by creamy parmesan
• Filling and hearty thanks to gnocchi and chicken
• Great for both casual dinners and entertaining
• Easily adaptable with different vegetables or proteins
• Family-friendly and appealing to a wide range of tastes
• Can be made with pantry staples
• Elegant enough for guests, simple enough for weekdays
• No need to boil gnocchi separately — it cooks right in the sauce

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 pound uncooked potato gnocchi
• ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create four thin cutlets. Season both sides with garlic powder and lemon pepper seasoning.
2. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
5. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
6. Stir in the uncooked gnocchi, ensuring it’s submerged in the sauce. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until gnocchi is tender.
7. Add parmesan and spinach, stirring until the cheese melts and spinach wilts.
8. Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer for 2–3 more minutes until heated through.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth. Add mushrooms or zucchini for heartiness.
• Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream and dairy-free cheese alternatives.
• Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free gnocchi and ensure all other ingredients are GF.
• Spicy Version: Add crushed red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños.
• Herb-Infused: Stir in fresh herbs like thyme, parsley, or basil for extra flavor.
• Lemon-Lover’s Twist: Add lemon zest for a stronger citrus punch.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
• Freezing: Not recommended due to the cream-based sauce, which may separate upon thawing.

FAQs

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) or slice to check that it’s no longer pink inside.

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead?

Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken works well—add it during the final simmer to warm through.

Is it okay to use frozen gnocchi?

Yes, but thaw it first and reduce the cooking time slightly to prevent overcooking.

What’s the best cream to use?

Heavy cream creates the richest, most stable sauce. Half-and-half is a lighter alternative but may yield a thinner consistency.

Can I substitute the spinach?

Yes, arugula, kale, or chopped broccoli florets are great substitutes.

Do I need to boil the gnocchi first?

No, it cooks directly in the sauce, absorbing flavor and releasing starch to thicken the dish.

How do I keep the sauce from curdling?

Use heavy cream, add lemon juice gradually, and avoid boiling the sauce too vigorously.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the chicken and sauce base in advance and reheat gently when ready.

What should I serve with Lemon Chicken Gnocchi?

A green salad or garlic bread pairs nicely with the creamy and tangy flavors.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use a larger skillet or cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

Conclusion

Lemon Chicken Gnocchi is a quick yet elegant meal that delivers creamy comfort with a burst of citrusy brightness. Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner or hosting guests, this one-pan recipe ensures satisfaction with minimal effort. With simple ingredients and plenty of room for customization, it’s bound to become a regular favorite in your kitchen.

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