Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi – Creamy, Hearty, and Ready in One Pan

Introduction

Comfort food doesn’t get much better than Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi. Imagine pillowy-soft gnocchi nestled in a rich, creamy Alfredo sauce with tender chunks of seasoned chicken — all coming together in one pan for a restaurant-quality dinner that’s as easy as it is indulgent.

This dish combines the classic flavors of chicken Alfredo with the irresistible texture of gnocchi — a potato-based pasta that cooks up soft and chewy, making it the perfect partner for silky, garlicky Parmesan cream sauce.

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Ingredients Overview

Chicken

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  Tender and juicy when seared and diced.

• Seasonings:
  Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning for depth.

Gnocchi

• 1 lb shelf-stable, refrigerated, or homemade gnocchi
  Cooks quickly right in the sauce — no need to boil separately.

Sauce Base

• Butter + Olive Oil: For sautéing and richness.

• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds bold, aromatic flavor.

• Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half: The base of the Alfredo sauce.

• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated for best melt and flavor.

• Salt & Pepper: Adjust to taste.

• Spinach (optional): For a pop of color and added nutrition.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sear the Chicken

• Cube 1 lb chicken and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.

• In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil + 1 tbsp butter over medium-high.

• Add chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes until golden and cooked through.

• Remove and set aside.

2. Sauté Garlic

• In the same skillet, add 2 tbsp butter.

• Sauté 3 cloves minced garlic for 30–60 seconds until fragrant — avoid browning.

3. Add Gnocchi and Cream

• Add 1 lb gnocchi straight into the pan.

• Pour in 1½ cups heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option).

• Stir and bring to a low simmer.

• Cover and cook for 4–5 minutes, or until gnocchi is tender.

4. Stir in Cheese and Chicken

• Stir in ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

• Add chicken back to the pan and mix everything together.

• Simmer another 2–3 minutes until sauce thickens and clings to the gnocchi.

5. Add Optional Greens and Serve

• Stir in 2 cups fresh spinach (optional) until wilted.

• Taste and adjust salt and pepper.

• Garnish with extra cheese, parsley, or chili flakes.

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Tips, Variations & Substitutions

Tips:

• No need to pre-boil gnocchi – it cooks directly in the cream, absorbing flavor.

• Grate your own Parmesan — it melts more smoothly and tastes better.

• Let the sauce rest 2 minutes before serving to thicken slightly.

Variations:

• Bacon Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi: Add crisped pancetta or bacon bits.

• Mushroom Alfredo Gnocchi: Sauté sliced mushrooms before adding cream.

• Spicy Alfredo: Add crushed red pepper or a spoonful of Calabrian chili paste.

Substitutions:

• No heavy cream? Use half-and-half, full-fat coconut milk, or a mix of milk + cream cheese.

• Dairy-free? Use plant-based cream and dairy-free Parmesan.

• Gluten-free? Use gluten-free gnocchi and check your cheese and cream labels.

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Serving Ideas & Occasions

This cozy dish is perfect for:

• Busy weeknight dinners

• Date night in — fancy without the fuss

• Family meals that feel special

• Meal prep — reheats well for lunches

Serve with:

• Garlic bread or focaccia

• Roasted green beans or asparagus

• A fresh side salad with lemon vinaigrette

• A glass of white wine or sparkling water with herbs

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Nutritional & Health Notes

While this dish is indulgent, it offers balanced comfort:

• Gnocchi provide complex carbs and satisfying texture

• Chicken adds lean protein

• Option to add spinach or mushrooms for fiber and nutrients

Estimated per serving (1 of 4):

• Calories: ~580

• Protein: ~32g

• Carbs: ~48g

• Fat: ~28g

• Fiber: ~2g

Lighter versions can be made using half-and-half or by increasing veggies and reducing cream.

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FAQs

Q1: Can I use frozen gnocchi?
Yes, just thaw it slightly before adding to the skillet, or add 1–2 extra minutes to cooking time.

Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Store in an airtight container and reheat gently with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.

Q3: What if my sauce is too thin?
Let it simmer uncovered a few more minutes or stir in extra Parmesan cheese.

Q4: Can I use rotisserie or pre-cooked chicken?
Absolutely — just skip the searing step and add it to the sauce after the gnocchi is cooked.

Q5: How do I keep Alfredo from curdling?
Use low to medium heat and avoid boiling once the cream is added.

Q6: Can I add vegetables?
Definitely — spinach, kale, mushrooms, or broccoli florets are all great options.

Q7: Is this kid-friendly?
Yes! The creamy sauce and soft gnocchi are usually a hit with kids. Skip the spice if needed.

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