This Chicken Gnocchi Alfredo is a creamy delight that brings together tender chicken and soft, pillowy gnocchi in a rich Alfredo sauce. It’s like a warm hug on a plate!
Making it is a breeze! I love how the flavors blend perfectly, and who can resist a dish that feels extra cozy and comforting? You can have dinner ready in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Gnocchi: Potato gnocchi is soft and fluffy, perfect for this dish. If you can’t find it, you can use store-bought or even make your own using mashed potatoes. For a gluten-free option, try cauliflower gnocchi.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great here, but you could substitute with rotisserie chicken for convenience. You can also use cooked turkey or shrimp if you prefer.
Heavy Cream: This is essential for the creamy sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or a combination of milk with cornstarch for thickening. Non-dairy options like cashew cream also work well!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts beautifully into the sauce. If you’re out, Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano can be good alternatives. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast adds some cheesy flavor!
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds color and nutrition. If you don’t have fresh, you can use frozen spinach (just be sure to thaw and drain it well).
How Do You Get the Sauce to the Perfect Creamy Consistency?
Creating a smooth and creamy Alfredo sauce is an important step. After adding heavy cream and chicken broth, bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to allow it to thicken. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure an even texture.
- Slowly add grated Parmesan cheese while stirring; it helps achieve that creamy blend.
- Let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes to thicken slightly. If it’s too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or cream.
- If the sauce isn’t thickening, a little cornstarch mixed with water can be added for a boost.
Following these tips will lead you to a luscious sauce that clings beautifully to the gnocchi and chicken!
Chicken Gnocchi Alfredo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) potato gnocchi
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (100g) grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for topping
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) chicken broth
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Chicken Gnocchi Alfredo will take about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and 20 minutes cooking everything together. It’s a quick and satisfying meal the whole family will love!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Gnocchi:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the potato gnocchi. Cook according to the package instructions, usually until they float to the surface. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Once they’re done, drain them and set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season your diced chicken with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until it’s browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Garlic Butter:
Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute, just until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
4. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring everything together. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This is where the magic happens!
5. Add Cheese and Seasoning:
Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Keep the sauce simmering for about 3-5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Stir occasionally to ensure a smooth consistency.
6. Combine with Gnocchi and Spinach:
Add the cooked gnocchi, cooked chicken, and fresh spinach to the creamy sauce. Gently stir to combine everything and let it warm through, allowing the spinach to wilt.
7. Finish and Serve:
Sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning over the top. If you like a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra flavor. For a nice golden finish, you can place the skillet under a broiler for 2-3 minutes. Just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
8. Garnish and Enjoy:
Remove from the oven if you’ve broiled it. Garnish your creamy Chicken Gnocchi Alfredo with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately.
Enjoy this comforting, creamy dish with family and friends!
Can I Use Store-Bought Gnocchi for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought potato gnocchi saves time and is convenient. Just cook according to the package instructions before adding it to the sauce.
Can I Substitute the Chicken for Another Protein?
Yes, you can easily substitute the chicken with shrimp, turkey, or even cooked sausage. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is cooked through.
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
No problem! If you don’t have heavy cream on hand, you can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and a bit of flour or cornstarch to thicken the sauce as it cooks. It may be slightly less rich, but still delicious!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.