Hey there, fellow foodies! If you’re on the hunt for a meal that’s not only delicious but also a breeze to whip up, you’ve come to the right place. I’m thrilled to share with you my latest culinary creation: the ultimate Healthy Chicken Gnocchi Skillet! 🎉 Picture this: tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and an array of veggies all cozied up in a creamy, flavor-packed sauce. And the best part? It’s dairy-free, high in protein, and perfect for meal prep! So, roll up those sleeves and get ready to embark on a flavor adventure with me!
Try my other dinner recipes.
What you’ll need to make Chicken Gnocchi Skillet
Serve: 4
- 2 tbsp. olive oil
- 1 lb. (450g) chicken breast, chopped
- sea salt & black pepper, to taste
- 1 lb. (450g) potato gnocchi
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, diced
- 3.5 oz. (100g) mushrooms, diced
- 1 tsp. Italian seasoning
- 11⁄2 tsp. paprika
- 1⁄4 tsp. red pepper flakes
- 8 fl oz. (240ml) low-sodium chicken broth
- 4 fl oz. (120ml) oat cream (or sub half & half)
- 3.5 oz. (100g) baby spinach fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Let’s dive into the key ingredients that make this Healthy Chicken Gnocchi Skillet shine. First, we’ve got juicy chicken breast, seasoned to perfection. Then, there’s the pillowy potato gnocchi, ready to soak up all the flavors. Add in some garlic, onion, and mushrooms for depth, and sprinkle in Italian seasoning, paprika, and red pepper flakes for that extra zing. Our creamy sauce comes together with low-sodium chicken broth and oat cream, ensuring a dairy-free delight. And to top it all off, a handful of vibrant baby spinach adds color and nutrition. With these superstar ingredients, every bite is a taste sensation!
Try my Classic Chicken Cacciatore recipe.
What you’ll need to do
Prep time: 15 min Cook time: 20 min
Let’s make cooking this Healthy Chicken Gnocchi Skillet a breeze with some easy-peasy instructions:
Step 1: Get your big skillet out and heat it up over medium heat. Pour in a splash of olive oil – let it dance around the skillet a bit. Now, grab that chicken and sprinkle some salt and pepper on it, give it a nice massage, then toss it into the skillet. Cook it up for about 4-5 minutes until it’s all cooked through and has this beautiful brown color. Once it’s done, take it out and give it a little rest on the side.
Step 2: While your chicken is sizzling away, get your gnocchi ready. Follow the instructions on the package – you know, just boil them up until they’re nice and tender. Once they’re done, drain them out and set them aside for a bit.
Step 3: Now, back to that trusty skillet! Toss in some minced garlic, chopped onion, diced mushrooms, and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning, paprika, and red pepper flakes. Let them all mingle and dance together until they’re soft and smelling oh-so-good.
Step 4: Time to add some liquid love! Pour in that chicken broth and slowly whisk in the oat cream. Keep whisking until the sauce gets nice and thick – it’s like giving your skillet a cozy blanket.
Step 5: Let’s invite some green goodness to the party! Throw in a handful of baby spinach and those cooked gnocchi. Let them hang out in the skillet for about 3-4 minutes until the spinach gets all wilted and cozy.
Step 6: Welcome back, chicken! Time to reunite it with the gang in the skillet. Toss it back in there and give everything a good mix. Taste test time! Add a bit more salt and pepper if you feel like it needs a little extra love.
Step 7: Now, the grand finale! Serve up your skillet masterpiece nice and warm, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for that final touch, and voila! You’ve just whipped up a delicious Healthy Chicken Gnocchi Skillet that’s sure to impress. Enjoy every tasty bite!
Some possible substitution and improvisation ideas for the recipe
Here are some substitution and improvisation ideas for the recipe:
Try my Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta Bake recipe.
Protein Swaps: Instead of chicken breast, you can try using diced tofu, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.
Gnocchi Alternatives: If you’re out of gnocchi, try using pasta like penne or fusilli, or even rice or quinoa for a gluten-free option.
Vegetable Variations: Mix up the veggies based on what you have on hand or what you prefer. Bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or broccoli would all be great additions or substitutions.
Creamy Sauce Options: If oat cream isn’t available, you can use coconut cream for a slightly different flavor profile. For a lighter option, try using unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk.
Seasoning Tweaks: Don’t be afraid to play around with the seasonings! You can add a squeeze of lemon juice for freshness, swap out the Italian seasoning for your favorite herbs like thyme or rosemary, or add a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Broth Alternatives: If you don’t have chicken broth on hand, vegetable broth or even water with a bouillon cube will work just fine.
Greens Substitutions: If you’re not a fan of spinach, kale or Swiss chard would make excellent substitutes. Or, skip the greens altogether if you prefer.
Garnish Options: Get creative with your garnishes! Try topping your skillet with chopped fresh basil, grated Parmesan cheese (if you’re not dairy-free), or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra flavor boost.
Try my Broccoli and Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells recipe.
Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your own delicious version of the Healthy Chicken Gnocchi Skillet!
Some useful tips for the recipe
Here are some useful tips to ensure your Healthy Chicken Gnocchi Skillet turns out perfectly every time:
Try my Orange Chicken Stir Fry recipe.
Prep Ingredients in Advance: Chop your chicken, garlic, onion, and any other veggies ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.
Pat Dry Chicken: Before seasoning and cooking the chicken, make sure to pat it dry with paper towels. This helps ensure a nice sear and prevents the chicken from steaming in the skillet.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the skillet. This allows the chicken to brown evenly rather than steam.
Cook Gnocchi Just Right: When boiling the gnocchi, be sure not to overcook them as they can become mushy. Follow the package instructions closely and remove them from the boiling water as soon as they float to the surface.
Reserve Some Pasta Water: If the sauce thickens too much, you can add a splash of the pasta cooking water to thin it out and help it coat the gnocchi evenly.
Taste and Adjust Seasonings: Don’t forget to taste the dish before serving and adjust the seasonings as needed. Everyone’s palate is different, so feel free to add more salt, pepper, or other spices to suit your taste.
Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe is great for meal prep! Simply divide the cooked skillet into individual portions and store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop for quick and easy meals throughout the week.
Customize to Your Taste: Feel free to customize the recipe with your favorite veggies, protein, or seasonings. Cooking should be fun and flexible, so don’t hesitate to get creative and make it your own!
By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of making the perfect Healthy Chicken Gnocchi Skillet!
Some serving suggestions
Here are some serving suggestions to complement your Healthy Chicken Gnocchi Skillet:
Try my Ground Turkey with Chili and Basil Stir Fry recipe.
Garlic Bread: Serve slices of warm garlic bread on the side for dipping into the creamy sauce. It’s the perfect way to soak up every last bit of flavor!
Side Salad: Pair your skillet with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette dressing. The fresh greens provide a nice contrast to the rich and creamy flavors of the dish.
Roasted Vegetables: Roast up some seasonal vegetables like asparagus, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers to serve alongside the skillet. The caramelized flavors of the roasted veggies will complement the dish beautifully.
Grilled Corn: Fire up the grill and cook some corn on the cob to serve as a tasty side dish. Brush the corn with butter and sprinkle with salt and pepper for extra flavor.
Fresh Herbs: Garnish the skillet with freshly chopped herbs like parsley, basil, or chives for a pop of color and freshness. The herbs add a burst of flavor that takes the dish to the next level.
Crusty Bread: Serve slices of crusty bread or dinner rolls on the side for dipping into the creamy sauce. It’s a simple yet satisfying addition to round out the meal.
Parmesan Cheese: If you’re not dairy-free, sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the skillet just before serving. The salty, nutty flavor of the cheese complements the dish perfectly.
Lemon Wedges: Serve lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the skillet just before digging in. The bright acidity of the lemon adds a refreshing touch to the dish.
These serving suggestions are sure to elevate your Healthy Chicken Gnocchi Skillet to a whole new level of deliciousness!
Some storage suggestions
Here are some storage suggestions to help you keep your Healthy Chicken Gnocchi Skillet fresh and delicious:
Try my Teriyaki Steak with Pak Choi and Noodles recipe.
Refrigeration: If you have leftovers, allow the skillet to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Portioning: Consider portioning out the leftovers into individual containers before refrigerating. This makes it easy to grab a single serving for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Freezing: If you want to keep the skillet for longer, you can freeze it. Allow the skillet to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or freezer bags. Label the container with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen skillet, transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw overnight. Alternatively, you can reheat it from frozen on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Reheating: Reheat the refrigerated or thawed skillet on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. You can also reheat it in the microwave in a microwave-safe dish, covering it with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.
Add Moisture: If the skillet seems a bit dry after reheating, you can add a splash of chicken broth or water to help loosen the sauce and prevent it from sticking.
Freshen Up: Before serving leftovers, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice to freshen up the flavors.
By following these storage suggestions, you can enjoy your Healthy Chicken Gnocchi Skillet for days to come, whether you’re meal prepping for the week ahead or saving leftovers for later!
Try my Pork Chops with Garlicky Cream Sauce recipe.
And there you have it, folks – my recipe for a Healthy Chicken Gnocchi Skillet that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen! Whether you’re cooking up a quick weeknight dinner or prepping meals for the week ahead, this dish has got you covered. With its hearty flavors, nutritious ingredients, and easy-peasy prep, it’s a winner-winner chicken dinner that’ll have everyone asking for seconds! So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, fire up that skillet, and let’s make some delicious memories together! 🍳✨
Healthy Chicken and Gnocchi Skillet
Say hello to your new favorite weeknight dinner: my Healthy Chicken Gnocchi Skillet! 🌟 With juicy chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and a creamy sauce bursting with flavor, it’s the ultimate comfort food hug in a pan! Quick, easy, and oh-so-delicious – what more could you ask for? Let’s dig in!🍴
Ingredients
Instructions
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Step 1:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then cook in the skillet for 4-5 minutes until fully cooked and browned. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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Step 2:
While the chicken is cooking, prepare the gnocchi according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
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Step 3:
In the same skillet, add the garlic, onion, mushrooms, Italian seasoning, paprika and red pepper flakes. Sauté until the vegetables are translucent.
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Step 4:
Pour in the chicken broth and gradually whisk in the oat cream. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens.
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Step 5:
Add the spinach and cooked gnocchi into the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until the spinach wilts.
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Step 6:
Return the chicken to the skillet. Season to taste with more salt and pepper, if needed.Serve warm, garnished with parsley.
