Lemon Chicken Gnocchi

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful, and comforting dish, this Lemon Chicken Gnocchi is an absolute winner. The tender chicken breasts are seasoned with lemon pepper and garlic, seared to perfection, and paired with gnocchi simmered in a creamy lemon sauce. The added freshness of spinach and the richness of parmesan cheese make this dish an instant favorite. Plus, it all cooks in one pan, which means less cleanup and more time enjoying your meal. It’s a delicious, satisfying recipe that combines creamy textures and bright, zesty flavors – perfect for any weeknight dinner!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 large chicken breasts

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning (see note)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 cup chicken broth

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 cup heavy/whipping cream

• 1 pound uncooked potato gnocchi

• 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

• 2 cups (packed) fresh baby spinach

• Salt & pepper to taste

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts in half lengthwise, creating 4 thinner cutlets. Season both sides of the chicken with garlic powder and lemon pepper. If your lemon pepper seasoning doesn’t contain salt, be sure to add a pinch of salt to the chicken as well.

2. Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken cutlets and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm.

3. Make the Sauce: Lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the same skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Stir in the chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor.

4. Add the Cream and Gnocchi: Pour in the cream and add the uncooked gnocchi. Stir everything together, ensuring the gnocchi is submerged in the sauce. Let the mixture simmer gently, uncovered, for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. The gnocchi will release starch, thickening the sauce as it cooks.

5. Finish the Dish: Once the gnocchi is cooked and the sauce has thickened, remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the parmesan cheese and fresh spinach, tossing until the spinach has wilted. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, adding any juices from the plate. Spoon some sauce over the chicken, then season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Serve: Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for a vegetarian version of this dish. You can also add extra spinach or even kale for added greens.

• Lemon Zest: For a stronger lemon flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of lemon zest to the sauce.

• Lower-Fat Version: If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with a lower-fat alternative like half-and-half or a non-dairy cream substitute (though this may affect the richness of the sauce).

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover Lemon Chicken Gnocchi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the leftovers in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to help loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-cooked gnocchi in this recipe?

While the recipe calls for uncooked gnocchi, you can use pre-cooked gnocchi, but the texture may differ slightly, and you will need to adjust the cooking time.

2. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is safe to eat when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. You can use a meat thermometer for an accurate reading.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, and simply reheat everything before serving.

4. Can I substitute the chicken for another protein?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with shrimp or even turkey breast for a different protein option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

5. What type of gnocchi should I use?

Use uncooked potato gnocchi for the best texture and flavor. You can find them in the pasta section of most grocery stores.

6. Is there a substitute for heavy cream in this recipe?

You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative, but the sauce may not be as rich and creamy.

7. How can I make the sauce thicker?

If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer longer to reduce and thicken. You can also add a little more grated parmesan cheese, which will help thicken the sauce.

8. Can I use frozen gnocchi?

Yes, you can use frozen gnocchi. Just add them directly to the sauce, and they will cook as the sauce simmers.

9. How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for an extra kick of heat.

10. Can I freeze Lemon Chicken Gnocchi?

While it’s best fresh, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Reheat on the stove with a splash of broth or cream.

Conclusion

This Lemon Chicken Gnocchi recipe is a quick and comforting meal that brings together the best of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors. It’s an easy dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something indulgent yet simple. With tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a rich lemon parmesan sauce, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!