This Chicken Gnocchi Alfredo is a creamy, comforting dish with tender gnocchi and juicy chicken. It’s perfect for filling tummies and warming hearts!
I love how quick it is to whip up! Just toss everything in the pan, and dinner is ready! It feels like a cozy hug on a plate. Give it a try—you’ll want seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potato Gnocchi: This is the star of the dish! Potato gnocchi gives a fluffy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider cauliflower gnocchi, which can give a great taste while being lower in carbs.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work well here, but feel free to use thighs or even shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker prep. You can also skip the chicken for a vegetarian version, adding more veggies instead!
Heavy Cream: This adds rich creaminess, but if you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or a combination of milk with some cream can be used. You can also use coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan provides the best flavor. If you’re out, Pecorino Romano is a great substitute. Nutritional yeast can be used for a vegan version, giving a cheesy flavor without dairy.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Gnocchi?
Cooking gnocchi is simple, but timing it just right is key! You want them to be soft but not mushy. Here’s how:
- Boil water in a large pot and season with salt.
- Once boiling, add the gnocchi. They typically only need a few minutes to cook.
- Watch closely! They’re done when they float to the surface. Use a slotted spoon to remove them quickly so they don’t overcook.
- Drain and add them directly to your sauce mixture for perfect blending.
This method keeps the gnocchi from getting sticky and ensures they soak up that delicious sauce! Enjoy making your Chicken Gnocchi Alfredo with these tips!
How to Make Chicken Gnocchi Alfredo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450 g) potato gnocchi
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk
- 1 cup (100 g) grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1/2 tsp dried Italian seasoning or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 25-30 minutes to make this delicious Chicken Gnocchi Alfredo. This includes around 10 minutes of preparation and around 20 minutes of cooking. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but delicious enough to impress your guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
2. Sauté Garlic:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat slightly and add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute, making sure not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
3. Make the Sauce:
Add the heavy cream, whole milk, and Italian seasoning to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Let it warm up, but avoid boiling it to keep the cream from separating.
4. Cook the Gnocchi:
While the sauce is simmering, cook the gnocchi according to package instructions. Typically, this involves boiling them for about 2-3 minutes until they float to the surface. Drain the gnocchi and then add them to the skillet with the cream sauce.
5. Combine Ingredients:
Gently stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and thicken the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a splash more milk or cream. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
6. Toss Everything Together:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and gently toss everything together so the gnocchi and chicken are well coated in the creamy sauce. Let it cook together for another 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once everything is well mixed and heated through, remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil leaves and freshly chopped parsley if you like. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan cheese on the side for those who want a little more flavor!
Enjoy this rich, creamy Chicken Gnocchi Alfredo that combines tender gnocchi and flavorful chicken in a luscious Parmesan sauce. It’s comfort food at its finest!
Can I Use Frozen Gnocchi for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Make sure to cook them according to the package instructions. They usually don’t require any extra cooking time—just boil until they float and then add them to your sauce!
How Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
To make Chicken Gnocchi Alfredo gluten-free, look for gluten-free potato gnocchi at the store. The other ingredients in the recipe are typically gluten-free, but always double-check labels, especially on seasonings and sauces.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Absolutely! Spinach, kale, or even roasted cherry tomatoes can be delicious additions. Just add them to the skillet when you sauté the garlic, allowing them enough time to soften before adding the cream and milk.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if the sauce has thickened too much. Enjoy again for a quick and tasty meal!
