Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Creamy Chicken Gnocchi with Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto and Spinach Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.2 from 14 reviews

  • Author: Leila
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

This creamy chicken gnocchi recipe offers a delightful, rich and comforting meal featuring tender cubed chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and fresh spinach in a luscious sun-dried tomato pesto and Parmesan cream sauce. Ready in just 20 minutes, this easy stovetop dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that satisfies with its hearty flavors and creamy texture.


Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup heavy cream, room temperature
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • ¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
  • ¼ cup sun-dried tomato pesto
  • 1 pound gnocchi (1 package)
  • 2 cups fresh spinach


Instructions

  1. Season the chicken: Sprinkle the cubed chicken breasts evenly with kosher salt and ground black pepper to enhance their flavor.
  2. Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 8-12 minutes until fully cooked through and golden brown on the outside. Remove chicken from the pan and transfer to a plate.
  3. Prepare the creamy sauce: In the same Dutch oven, stir together the heavy cream, low-sodium chicken broth, shredded Parmesan cheese, and sun-dried tomato pesto. Mix well to combine all flavors.
  4. Cook the gnocchi: Add the gnocchi to the sauce in the pan, then cover with a lid. Let cook for approximately 5 minutes until the gnocchi are tender and cooked through.
  5. Add the chicken and wilt spinach: Return the cooked chicken to the pan along with the fresh spinach. Stir and cook for 2 minutes until the spinach is wilted and heated through.

Notes

  • Use cubed chicken breasts for even cooking and tender bites.
  • Ensure the heavy cream is at room temperature to prevent curdling when combined with the broth.
  • Sun-dried tomato pesto adds a robust flavor—if unavailable, substitute with regular pesto for a greener taste.
  • Fresh spinach wilts quickly, so add it just before finishing to maintain its vibrant color and nutrients.
  • This dish can be made in any wide, heavy-bottomed pan if a Dutch oven is not available.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-American