In our busy household, finding meals that are both quick to prepare and satisfying is key. One of our family favorites is Lemon Gnocchi Chicken. It perfectly marries tender chicken with creamy lemon-infused sauce, all served over pillowy gnocchi. As a mom, I’m always looking for uncomplicated recipes that don’t sacrifice flavor, and this one checks all the boxes!
Recently, I made this dish for dinner, and let me tell you, the entire family devoured it! My kids couldn’t get enough of the gnocchi, and my husband kept going back for more of that zesty sauce. It’s one of those meals that you can throw together in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for those evenings when the dinner hour sneaks up on you.
The best part is how simple it is. With just a few ingredients that you probably have on hand, you can create a dish that feels special enough for a Sunday dinner but is easy enough to whip up on a Monday night. I love cooking with fresh ingredients, and the addition of baby spinach not only puts more greens on the table but adds a lovely pop of color too.
So, whether you’re hurriedly preparing dinner after a long day or looking to impress guests with something delicious, Lemon Gnocchi Chicken is a great choice. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and hopefully create some happy family memories around the dinner table like we have!
How to Make Lemon Gnocchi Chicken
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Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts, sliced in half
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- Juice from 1 lemon
- 1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (100 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 500 g (17 oz) fresh gnocchi
- 2 cups (60 g) baby spinach
Directions
Begin by seasoning the sliced chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and thyme. Make sure to rub the seasoning into the meat so it’s evenly coated.
In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add in the butter and let it melt completely.
Once the butter is melted, add the chicken pieces to the skillet. Cook each side for about three minutes, then cover the skillet and allow it to cook for an additional three minutes or until the chicken is cooked through. After done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
Next, squeeze in the lemon juice and pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese along with the gnocchi. Cook for about two minutes, stirring occasionally.
Finally, stir in the baby spinach and place the chicken on top before serving hot to your family.
Storing Suggestion
This Lemon Gnocchi Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to maintain the creamy consistency.
Cooking Tips
If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken to simplify the process. For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the sauce after sautéing the garlic. Remember to let it cook off before adding the broth and cream.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is best served fresh and hot, but if you’re looking to enhance the experience, consider garnishing with additional Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs like parsley. Pair it with a simple side salad or crusty bread to soak up the delightful sauce.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you’re in need of alternative ingredients, you can swap chicken for turkey or cooked shrimp. For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a creamy non-dairy alternative, such as cashew cream.
Seasonal Variations
Feel free to adapt this recipe according to the seasons. In the fall, you can add sautéed mushrooms or butternut squash. In the spring, fresh peas or asparagus would add a lovely crunch. This versatility makes it perfect for any time of year!
Allergen Information
This recipe contains dairy, as it includes butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. For those with dairy allergies, you can use coconut milk for creaminess and nutritional yeast as a cheese substitute, giving a similar flavor profile.
FAQ
Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?
Yes, frozen gnocchi works perfectly! There’s no need to thaw them before adding to the sauce. Just toss them in directly, and they’ll cook up beautifully as the sauce simmers.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just cook the gnocchi and chicken right before serving for the best results.
What can I serve with Lemon Gnocchi Chicken?
A fresh side salad with a light vinaigrette pairs nicely, as does crusty bread to enjoy with the creamy sauce. For drinks, a crisp white wine complements the lemon flavor beautifully.
Can this recipe be doubled for a bigger crowd?
Absolutely! Just make sure your skillet is large enough or use two pans. The cooking time may vary slightly, so be sure to check that the chicken is fully cooked through.
Can I use another type of cheese in place of Parmesan?
Yes, other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago can be used as well. If you prefer a softer cheese, consider cream cheese or mascarpone for a different flavor and texture.
What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
To reheat leftovers, place them in a skillet over low heat. Stir occasionally and add a splash of broth or cream to keep the dish moist. Microwave can also be used, but the stovetop preserves the texture better.
Lemon Gnocchi Chicken
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts sliced in half
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- juice from 1 lemon
- 1 cup chicken broth 240 ml
- 1 cup heavy cream 240 ml
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese 100 g
- 500 g fresh gnocchi 17 oz
- 2 cups baby spinach 60 g
Instructions
- Season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and thyme. Use your hands to ensure the seasoning is well distributed.
- In a large skillet with a heavy base, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the butter to the pan.
- When the butter has melted, introduce the seasoned chicken. Cook for about 3 minutes, then flip the chicken over, cover, and cook for another 3 minutes, or until fully cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds while stirring.
- Pour in the lemon juice, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Once the mixture reaches a simmer, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and gnocchi. Allow to cook for 2 minutes.
- Finally, mix in the baby spinach, place the cooked chicken on top, and serve hot.
