If you’re looking for a dinner that’s equal parts cozy and crowd-pleasing, Creamy Chicken Gnocchi is the answer. This dish wraps tender chicken, fluffy potato gnocchi, and vibrant veggies in a velvety, savory sauce that screams comfort with each bite. It’s that magical kind of meal: rich in flavor, wildly satisfying, yet so easy to throw together on a weeknight. Plus, it holds up beautifully as leftovers, so you can enjoy that comforting warmth a second (or third!) time around.

Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi comes together with a handful of everyday ingredients, but each one plays a crucial role in building its signature texture and taste. From the pillowy gnocchi to the splash of cream, every component is there for a reason.

Gnocchi: These soft, pillowy potato dumplings cook quickly and soak up all the creamy sauce, delivering total comfort in every forkful.
Chicken breast: Boneless, skinless chicken stays juicy and shreddable; you can also use leftover roasted or rotisserie chicken for even more flavor.
Carrots: Chopped carrots add a gentle sweetness and a splash of color to the Creamy Chicken Gnocchi.
Celery: This aromatic veggie brings freshness and a subtle crunch, balancing out the creaminess.
Yellow onion: Classic for building a flavorful base; dice it small so it melts right into the sauce.
Garlic: A couple of cloves give that unmistakable savory aroma and depth.
Chicken broth: The foundation of the sauce; use low-sodium to control the salt content.
Heavy cream: The key ingredient that gives the sauce its luscious, creamy body — don’t swap for milk if you want maximum richness.
Fresh spinach: A couple of big handfuls wilt down nicely, adding color and a touch of earthiness.
Olive oil: For sautéing your veggies and chicken, adding a hint of fruitiness.
Salt and pepper: Essential for brightening up all the flavors; season to taste.
Italian seasoning: This herb blend ties everything together with a subtle, savory note.
Parmesan cheese: For a cheesy finish and unbeatable umami, stir it in at the end or sprinkle on top.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Gnocchi

Step 1: Sauté the Veggies

Start by heating a splash of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once shimmering, add your diced onion, carrots, and celery. Stir frequently for about 4 to 5 minutes until they’re softened and the onions are turning translucent. Toss in the minced garlic and let it cook just until fragrant, another 30 seconds or so — this builds the aromatic base that gives Creamy Chicken Gnocchi its irresistible flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Push the sautéed vegetables to the edges of your pot and place the chicken breast in the center. Season it well with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, just enough to develop a little color. Don’t worry about cooking it through yet, as it will finish poaching in the sauce.

Step 3: Add Broth and Simmer

Pour in the chicken broth, making sure the chicken breast is mostly submerged. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and ready to shred. Remove the chicken to a plate and use two forks to shred it, then return it to the pot with the veggies.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

Pour the heavy cream into the pot and stir well. Let the sauce bubble gently for a few minutes so it thickens slightly. Add the gnocchi directly to the pot — they’ll only take about 3 minutes to cook and will thicken up the sauce even more. Finally, stir in the fresh spinach and Parmesan cheese, letting the heat wilt the greens and melt the cheese right in.

Step 5: Adjust and Serve

Give your Creamy Chicken Gnocchi a good stir, taste, and tweak the seasoning if needed. If the sauce feels too thick, splash in a bit more broth; if you want it richer, add extra Parmesan. Serve it piping hot, ladled into bowls and finished with extra cheese or a sprinkle of herbs.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Gnocchi

Garnishes

A generous grating of Parmesan cheese on top is classic, but you can also add a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or basil for an extra pop of color and herby aroma. If you love a little kick, try finishing your Creamy Chicken Gnocchi with freshly cracked black pepper or a dash of red pepper flakes.

Side Dishes

Homemade garlic bread or a crusty baguette is an unbeatable match for soaking up the velvety sauce at the bottom of your bowl. You can also serve it alongside a crisp green salad dressed simply with olive oil and lemon to add brightness and balance.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Creamy Chicken Gnocchi in individual soup crocks or oven-safe bowls; top with a little extra cheese and brown it under the broiler for some bubbly, golden magic. For fun gatherings, spoon it into small mugs — it’s the ultimate cozy entertaining trick your guests will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Chicken Gnocchi can be stashed in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors only deepen and mingle as it sits, making tomorrow’s lunch an absolute delight.

Freezing

If you want to freeze it, portion the cooled Creamy Chicken Gnocchi into freezer-safe containers. It’s best enjoyed within a month for optimal taste and texture. The gnocchi may become a bit softer, but it’ll still be delicious and comforting.

Reheating

Simply reheat leftovers gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring frequently and adding a splash of milk or broth to bring the sauce back to its creamy consistency. If microwaving, cover and heat in short bursts, stirring each time for even warmth.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking my own?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut in Creamy Chicken Gnocchi. Just shred it and stir it in after your vegetables and broth have simmered, skipping the raw chicken step entirely.

What type of gnocchi works best?

Packaged shelf-stable potato gnocchi are convenient and work beautifully, but if you have access to fresh or homemade gnocchi, they’ll turn out even more tender. Cook time may vary slightly, so keep an eye on them.

Can I lighten the dish with half-and-half or milk?

You can substitute half-and-half for a lighter version, though the sauce won’t be quite as rich. Avoid regular milk, as it can separate or curdle in the heat, especially without the extra fat.

Is this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi gluten free?

Traditional gnocchi and many store-bought varieties contain wheat flour, so be sure to look for a gluten-free gnocchi brand if you want to keep the recipe gluten free — all the other ingredients are naturally gluten free.

What vegetables can I add or substitute?

You can easily swap the spinach for kale, or toss in peas, mushrooms, or even diced red pepper for added flavor and texture. Creamy Chicken Gnocchi is wonderfully flexible — don’t be afraid to make it your own.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi delivers spoonful after spoonful of heartwarming comfort, and it’s so easy you’ll find yourself making it all year round. Whether you need a family dinner or a dish to share with friends, give this recipe a try — one taste and you’ll see just how irresistible it is!

Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Recipe