There’s nothing quite like the feeling of a warm meal on a busy weeknight, especially when it’s as delightful as One-Pan Lemon Chicken Gnocchi in Creamy Parmesan Sauce. I stumbled upon this recipe when searching for a dish that could offer both comfort and ease, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint! The moment you start cooking, the kitchen fills with the tantalizing aroma of pan-seared chicken mingling with the vibrant zest of lemon and the rich creaminess of parmesan.
Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is a true lifesaver for those evenings when you want something special but don’t have the time for elaborate preparations. Picture fluffy, pillowy gnocchi soaking up all that luscious sauce while tender chicken pieces add a satisfying heartiness. With its bright flavors and creamy texture, this meal is one that families will crave repeatedly. Join me as we create this simple yet elegant comfort food that transcends a regular weeknight dinner!
Why is Lemon Chicken Gnocchi a Must-Try?
Speedy Preparation: This one-pan meal is ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
Elevated Comfort Food: The creamy parmesan sauce creates a comforting richness that feels indulgent yet homely.
Flavor Harmony: Bright lemon zest mingles beautifully with the hearty chicken and fluffy gnocchi.
Minimal Cleanup: With everything cooked in one skillet, cleanup is a breeze!
Family-Friendly Appeal: Even picky eaters will love this delightful dish, ensuring it becomes a family favorite.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this creamy Lemon Chicken Gnocchi will have everyone asking for seconds!
Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Chicken Breasts – Skinless, boneless chicken makes for easy cooking and slicing.
• Garlic Powder – Adds depth; substitute fresh garlic if preferred, but adjust the amount.
• Lemon Pepper Seasoning – A zesty kick; if unavailable, use salt and pepper combined with fresh lemon zest.
• Olive Oil – Enhances flavor when cooking; any vegetable oil works, but olive oil is preferred.
• Butter – Provides extra richness; omit for a lighter dish.
For the Sauce
• Garlic Cloves – Fresh garlic brings aromatic flavors; adjust according to your taste.
• Chicken Broth – Forms a delicious base; opt for low-sodium or vegetable broth as a substitute.
• Lemon Juice – Adds bright acidity; fresh lemon juice gives the best flavor.
• Heavy/Whipping Cream – For a rich, creamy sauce; half-and-half can be used for a lighter option but may curdle if boiled.
• Parmesan Cheese – Freshly grated offers the best creamy depth; pre-grated is a quick alternative.
For the Gnocchi
• Potato Gnocchi – No need to pre-cook; it will absorb the wonderful flavors of the sauce while cooking.
For the Greens
• Fresh Baby Spinach – Adds color and nutrients; swap with kale or another leafy green if desired.
• Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste for the perfect flavor.
Indulge in this delightful Lemon Chicken Gnocchi recipe that combines creaminess and convenience all in one dish!
How to Make Lemon Chicken Gnocchi
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Prepare Chicken: Cut chicken breasts into 4 thinner cutlets and season both sides generously with garlic powder and lemon pepper, ensuring they’re well-coated for maximum flavor.
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Sear Chicken: In a skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken cutlets for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through; then transfer to a plate.
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Sauté Garlic: Reduce the heat to medium and add minced garlic to the same skillet, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to let it burn.
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Deglaze Skillet: Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice to deglaze, scraping the skillet to loosen those tasty browned bits, which will add depth to your sauce.
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Combine Cream and Gnocchi: Stir in the heavy cream and add the potato gnocchi, making sure it’s submerged in the sauce. Gently simmer for 5-7 minutes until the gnocchi is tender and the sauce thickens.
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Incorporate Spinach and Cheese: Off the heat, mix in freshly grated parmesan and baby spinach until the spinach wilts and the cheese is melted smoothly throughout.
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Finish and Serve: Return the seared chicken to the skillet and spoon the creamy sauce over it. Adjust with additional salt and pepper to taste, and serve immediately for the best flavor.
Optional: Garnish with extra parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest for a bright finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Lemon Chicken Gnocchi
- Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety and tenderness. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Proper Searing: Avoid crowding the skillet when searing chicken; this allows for even browning and a delicious crust.
- No Pre-Cooking Gnocchi: Do not pre-cook the potato gnocchi; cooking it directly in the sauce enhances its flavor and texture.
- Sauce Consistency: If your sauce thickens too much, add a splash of broth to achieve your desired creaminess.
- Layered Flavors: For added depth, consider using stock instead of water when deglazing the skillet for a more flavorful base.
How to Store and Freeze Lemon Chicken Gnocchi
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to loosen the creamy sauce.
Freezer: Freeze in a suitable container for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stovetop, adding a bit of broth or cream if needed.
Room Temperature: It’s best not to leave the lemon chicken gnocchi out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent spoilage.
Make-Ahead: You can prepare the components in advance and assemble just before serving for a quick weeknight meal; however, it’s best to wait to cook the gnocchi until you’re ready to eat.
Make Ahead Options
These Lemon Chicken Gnocchi are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the chicken cutlets by seasoning and cooking them up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate them in an airtight container until you’re ready to use. The gnocchi can be kept uncooked, as cooking them right before serving ensures they maintain their delightful texture. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the chicken in the skillet then deglaze with the broth and lemon juice before adding the cream and gnocchi. This method keeps everything just as delicious, allowing you to enjoy a comforting meal with minimal fuss!
Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Variations
Feel free to bring your imagination to the kitchen and customize this already delightful dish!
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Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of umami and a delicious pop of color.
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Protein Swap: For a lighter option, substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu; both will absorb the flavors beautifully.
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Veggie Boost: Integrate fresh asparagus or green peas to brighten the dish and sneak in some extra nutrients.
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Herb Infusion: Sprinkle fresh herbs like basil or parsley at the end for an aromatic finish that elevates every bite.
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Lemon Zest: Incorporate fresh lemon zest into the sauce for an extra zing that will make your taste buds sing!
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Spicy Kick: For heat lovers, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for subtle spice that warms you from within.
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Nutty Flavor: Toss in a handful of toasted pine nuts for a delightful crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy sauce.
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Creamy Spin: For a decadent twist, swap the heavy cream with mascarpone cheese for an incredibly rich and velvety sauce.
Experimenting with these variations will not only keep your taste buds dancing but also make this recipe uniquely yours!
What to Serve with Lemon Chicken Gnocchi?
Create a delightful dining experience with these beautiful pairings that will enhance the comforting nature of your creamy dish.
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Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery flavor is perfect for mopping up that luscious sauce, creating a sumptuous combination that everyone will love.
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Crisp Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette offers freshness that balances the rich creaminess of the gnocchi.
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Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus drizzled with olive oil adds a vibrant, earthy tone, making for a delightful contrast to the creamy pasta.
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Zesty Lemon Sorbet: Serve as a refreshing palate cleanser to brighten the meal and cleanse the taste buds between courses.
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Sparkling Water: A fizzy drink like sparkling water with lemon slices elevates your dining experience, complementing the citrus notes in the gnocchi.
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Parmesan Crisps: Crisp, cheesy bites are a crunchy delight that mirrors the flavors of the dish while providing an enjoyable texture contrast.
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Sautéed Vegetables: A medley of sautéed seasonal vegetables can add warmth and color to the plate, contributing both nutrition and flavor variety.
Enjoy these pairings with your Lemon Chicken Gnocchi to create a delightful, well-rounded meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for Lemon Chicken Gnocchi?
Absolutely! For this dish, I recommend using skinless, boneless chicken breasts as they cook quickly and are easy to slice into thinner cutlets. This ensures even cooking and tenderness, making every bite enjoyable.
How should I store leftover Lemon Chicken Gnocchi?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to help loosen the creamy sauce and restore its delicious consistency.
Can Lemon Chicken Gnocchi be frozen?
Yes! To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to a suitable container. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, and reheat on the stovetop with a little added broth or cream to regain its creamy texture.
What if my sauce is too thick after cooking?
If you find your sauce has thickened more than you’d like while cooking, no worries! Simply add a small splash of chicken broth or heavy cream gradually, stirring continuously until you reach your desired consistency. This will keep the sauce nice and creamy without losing any flavor.
Are there any dietary restrictions to consider with this recipe?
If you or someone you’re serving has dietary concerns, it’s good to note that this recipe contains dairy. For a dairy-free alternative, consider substituting the heavy cream with coconut milk and using nutritional yeast instead of parmesan. Always check for any specific allergies related to the ingredients used, like chicken or gluten in store-bought gnocchi.
Could I use a different type of gnocchi for this recipe?
Very! While traditional potato gnocchi works wonderfully, you can also use gluten-free gnocchi if you’re looking for an alternative. Just make sure to check the cooking time, as it may vary slightly depending on the type you choose!
Creamy Lemon Chicken Gnocchi for Quick Comfort Food Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cut chicken breasts into 4 thinner cutlets and season both sides with garlic powder and lemon pepper.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken cutlets for about 5-6 minutes on each side.
- Reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic to the skillet, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice to deglaze, scraping the skillet.
- Stir in the heavy cream and add potato gnocchi, gently simmer for 5-7 minutes until gnocchi is tender.
- Mix in freshly grated parmesan and spinach off the heat until spinach wilts and cheese melts.
- Return seared chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over, adjust seasoning, and serve immediately.