One-Pan Lemon Gnocchi Chicken dish with fresh ingredients

One-Pan Lemon Gnocchi Chicken

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

One-pan Lemon Gnocchi Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and soft gnocchi all in one pan. This recipe is not only easy to prepare, but it also minimizes clean-up by cooking everything in a single pan. The bright flavor of lemon adds a refreshing touch, making this dish perfect for dinner any night of the week.

How to Make One-Pan Lemon Gnocchi Chicken

Ingredients:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, halved lengthways horizontally to make thinner 4 steaks
  • 1 tsp sea salt flakes
  • ½ tsp freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tsp freshly minced garlic
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 cup (250 ml) chicken stock
  • 1 cup (250 ml) thickened (heavy) cream
  • 1 cup (100 g) freshly grated parmesan
  • 500 g (1 lb 2 oz) fresh gnocchi (see note 1)
  • 2 cups (90 g) baby spinach leaves

Directions:

  1. Sprinkle the chicken breast with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Rub the chicken all over with your hands to ensure it is evenly coated.
  2. In a large, heavy-based frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the butter.
  3. Once the butter has melted, add the chicken and cook for 3 minutes. Flip the chicken, cover with a lid, and cook for an additional 3 minutes, or until fully cooked. Set the chicken aside.
  4. In the same pan, add the garlic and cook, stirring for 30 seconds.
  5. Add the lemon juice, chicken stock, and thickened cream. Once the mixture is simmering, add the parmesan and gnocchi. Cook for 2 minutes until the gnocchi is warmed through.
  6. Stir through the spinach leaves, place the cooked chicken on top, and serve.

How to Serve One-Pan Lemon Gnocchi Chicken

Serve this delicious dish straight from the pan for a cozy family meal. You can garnish it with extra parmesan cheese or a slice of lemon for added brightness. Pair it with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to complete your meal.

How to Store One-Pan Lemon Gnocchi Chicken

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Tips to Make One-Pan Lemon Gnocchi Chicken

  • Make sure to season the chicken well for maximum flavor.
  • Don’t overcook the gnocchi; they only need a few minutes in the sauce.
  • You can adjust the amount of garlic and lemon juice according to your taste preference.

Variation

For a twist, you can add different vegetables like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers to the pan, cooking them along with the chicken. You can also substitute the chicken with shrimp for a lighter option.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen gnocchi?
Yes, you can use frozen gnocchi. Just cook them according to the package instructions before adding them to the sauce.

2. Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
Yes, you can use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream substitute if you want a lighter or dairy-free option.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prep the chicken and sauce and store them separately in the fridge. Assemble and cook them when you’re ready to serve.