One Pan Chicken Gnocchi

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is the perfect blend of convenience and flavor. You get protein, vegetables, and carbs all in one pan, making it a complete meal with minimal mess. The gnocchi cooks right in the creamy sauce, absorbing all the savory goodness, while the vegetables stay crisp-tender for fresh texture. The lemon juice brightens the dish, ensuring it never feels too heavy. Plus, it’s adaptable for whatever veggies you have on hand.

Ingredients

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

Chicken:
1 teaspoon butter
2 teaspoons olive oil
2 (8 ounce) skinless, boneless chicken breasts
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Gnocchi:
2 teaspoons butter
1 pound gnocchi

Vegetables:
2 cups bite-sized broccoli florets
1 zucchini, sliced into thin ribbons
1 yellow squash, cut into half moons
1/2 cup quartered mushrooms
1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup diced red bell pepper

Cream Sauce:
2 teaspoons butter
2 tablespoons minced shallot (about 1 shallot)
1 cup chicken broth
3/4 cup half-and-half
1/4 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon lemon juice, or more to taste

Directions

1. Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sear for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.
2. Add 2 teaspoons butter to the skillet. Add gnocchi and sauté for 3–4 minutes until lightly golden. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add broccoli, zucchini, yellow squash, mushrooms, Italian seasoning, and garlic. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until just tender. Stir in red bell pepper and cook for 1 more minute. Remove vegetables and set aside.
4. For the sauce, melt 2 teaspoons butter in the skillet. Add shallot and sauté for 1–2 minutes until softened. Sprinkle in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Gradually whisk in chicken broth, half-and-half, and heavy cream. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until thickened. Stir in lemon juice.
6. Return gnocchi and vegetables to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. Slice chicken and arrange on top.
7. Simmer for 1–2 minutes to heat through. Adjust seasoning if needed and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Serves: 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Use spinach or kale instead of broccoli for a leafy green twist.
• Swap chicken for shrimp or salmon for a seafood version.
• Make it vegetarian by skipping the chicken and adding more vegetables.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
• Use gluten-free gnocchi and flour for a gluten-free version.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving for too long to keep the vegetables from becoming mushy.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

Yes, store-bought gnocchi works perfectly and saves time.

Can I make this without cream?

You can substitute with more half-and-half or even whole milk, though the sauce will be less rich.

How do I keep the vegetables crisp?

Cook them briefly and avoid overcooking when reheating.

Can I prepare this ahead?

You can prep the vegetables and sauce separately, then combine everything when ready to serve.

What other vegetables work well?

Asparagus, peas, cherry tomatoes, or green beans are great options.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, use plant-based butter, coconut cream, and a dairy-free milk alternative.

Do I have to cook gnocchi before adding to the pan?

No, it cooks directly in the skillet for both flavor and texture.

Can I freeze leftovers?

It’s not recommended cream sauces can separate when frozen.

What’s the best side dish?

This is a complete meal on its own, but garlic bread or a crisp side salad works beautifully.

Conclusion

One Pan Chicken Gnocchi is the kind of recipe that makes weeknight cooking feel special without extra work. With tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, fresh vegetables, and a rich, bright sauce, it’s satisfying, flavorful, and simple to make. Serve it hot straight from the skillet for a cozy, comforting dinner that’s ready in under an hour.

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