Creamy Gnocchi with Grilled Chicken

Creamy Gnocchi with Grilled Chicken is a satisfying and flavorful dish that feels restaurant-quality but is easy enough to prepare at home. Soft, pillowy gnocchi are coated in a rich, creamy sauce and paired with juicy grilled chicken, creating a balanced meal that is both comforting and filling. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, casual dinners, or when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen.

The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and hearty gnocchi makes this dish a favorite for both adults and kids. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a meal you’ll want to make again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is popular for good reason. It delivers big flavor with minimal effort and can be customized to suit your taste.

Creamy and comforting
Quick to prepare
Made with simple ingredients
Easy to customize with vegetables
Perfect for family dinners

Ingredients

For the Grilled Chicken

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Creamy Gnocchi

16 ounces potato gnocchi
1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup chicken broth
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Salt to taste

Optional Add-Ins

Fresh spinach or kale
Sliced mushrooms
Sun-dried tomatoes
Fresh parsley or basil

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare and Grill the Chicken

In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Coat the chicken breasts evenly with the mixture.

Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium heat. Grill the chicken for about 5–6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and nicely charred. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips.

2. Cook the Gnocchi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions. Once the gnocchi float to the surface, they are done. Drain and set aside.

3. Make the Creamy Sauce

In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 1–2 minutes.

Lower the heat and add the heavy cream, stirring gently. Gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper.

4. Combine Everything

Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet and toss gently to coat in the sauce. If using optional vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, add them now and cook until tender.

Top with sliced grilled chicken and let everything warm together for 2–3 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Creamy Gnocchi with Grilled Chicken hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil and extra Parmesan cheese. This dish pairs well with:

A crisp green salad
Garlic bread or crusty bread
Roasted or steamed vegetables

Tips for Best Results

Do not overcook the gnocchi: Overcooking makes them mushy
Let the chicken rest: This keeps it juicy
Use freshly grated Parmesan: It melts better into the sauce
Adjust sauce thickness: Add a splash of broth or cream if needed

Variations and Substitutions

Use grilled shrimp instead of chicken
Substitute half-and-half for a lighter sauce
Add peas or broccoli for extra nutrition
Use gluten-free gnocchi if needed

Final Thoughts

Creamy Gnocchi with Grilled Chicken is a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that brings together tender protein and rich flavors in one bowl. It’s easy enough for a weeknight yet impressive enough to serve guests. Once you try it, this dish is sure to become a regular part of your dinner rotation.