If you’re craving something that’s both comforting and bursting with flavor, then the Creamy One-Pot Gnocchi with Chicken and Vegetables Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. This dish is the perfect blend of tender, juicy chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and vibrant vegetables all swimming in an indulgently creamy sauce. Plus, it all comes together in just one pot, making your weeknight dinners effortless without sacrificing taste. If you love meals that feel homey yet special, this recipe will quickly earn a permanent spot on your rotation.

Creamy One-Pot Gnocchi with Chicken and Vegetables Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients sets you up for a dish that balances texture, taste, and color beautifully. Each component has its role, from the soft gnocchi to the aromatic herbs, creating that signature harmony you’ll want in every bite.

Gnocchi (1 pound): Choose store-bought or homemade for a pillowy, soft base that soaks up flavors perfectly.
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1 pound): Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking and even flavor distribution.
Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Adds a fruity richness that helps brown the chicken and vegetables beautifully.
Onion (1 medium, diced): Builds a sweet, savory foundation for the dish.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Infuses the sauce with that irresistible aromatic kick.
Red bell pepper (1, diced): Brings a pop of vibrant color and subtle sweetness.
Cherry tomatoes (1 cup, halved): Add juicy bursts of tangy freshness.
Fresh spinach (2 cups): Offers a tender, leafy green contrast and sneaky nutrition.
Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): Introduces classic Italian herbaceous notes.
Dried basil (1 teaspoon): Enhances the herbal depth with a slightly sweet aroma.
Red pepper flakes (1/2 teaspoon, optional): Gives a gentle heat that wakes up the palate, if you fancy a little spice.
Chicken broth (1 cup): Provides the flavorful liquid base that cooks the gnocchi and melds all ingredients together.
Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Creates that luscious, creamy texture that makes this meal feel indulgent.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasoning to balance and brighten all flavors.
Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Adds a nutty, savory finish that melts into pure deliciousness.
Fresh basil leaves (optional): Perfect for garnishing to add a fresh herbal note and lovely color.

How to Make Creamy One-Pot Gnocchi with Chicken and Vegetables Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Vegetables

Start by heating the olive oil over medium heat in a large pot or Dutch oven. Toss in the diced onion and let it cook until it turns translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Then add the minced garlic, stirring often to make sure it doesn’t burn—this step releases those amazing aromas you’ll want filling your kitchen.

Step 2: Add Red Bell Pepper and Chicken

Next, throw in the diced red bell pepper and sauté until it softens, around 3 to 4 minutes. Now, it’s time for the star protein. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil, then add them to the pot. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, turning as needed until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice golden-brown exterior.

Step 3: Incorporate Gnocchi and Broth

Gnocchi doesn’t need any pre-cooking here. Simply add the gnocchi to the pot, pour in the chicken broth, and stir to make sure the gnocchi is submerged. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil—this will start cooking the gnocchi right in the sauce.

Step 4: Simmer and Add Fresh Vegetables

Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let everything simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the gnocchi to become tender and soak up the savory broth. Then uncover and mix in the halved cherry tomatoes and fresh spinach, stirring carefully so the greens begin to wilt and the tomatoes release their juices.

Step 5: Finish with Cream and Cheese

Pour the heavy cream into the pot and stir to combine it with the other ingredients, creating a rich, creamy sauce. Let it simmer for another 3 to 4 minutes, and if you like a bit of subtle heat, now is when you sprinkle in those red pepper flakes. Finally, fold in the grated Parmesan cheese, letting it melt and thicken the sauce beautifully.

Step 6: Taste and Serve

Give the dish a taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Remove the pot from heat and let it rest for a couple of minutes—this pause helps the sauce thicken slightly for the perfect texture. You’re ready to serve!

How to Serve Creamy One-Pot Gnocchi with Chicken and Vegetables Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh basil leaves are a wonderful choice to garnish your dish, adding a bright herbal freshness that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy sauce. A light sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top can also elevate the presentation and flavor.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with a crusty loaf of bread, perfect for sopping up the incredible sauce. A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette works as a refreshing counterpart to the richness of the creamy gnocchi.

Creative Ways to Present

For a lovely dinner party presentation, plate the gnocchi in shallow bowls and garnish with microgreens or edible flowers for a pop of unexpected elegance. You can also serve it in rustic cast iron skillets straight from the stove for that cozy, homestyle charm.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making your next meal just as satisfying as the first time.

Freezing

This recipe freezes well, too. Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge to retain the creamy texture best.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much. This way, the Creamy One-Pot Gnocchi with Chicken and Vegetables Recipe will taste fresh and delightful every time.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought gnocchi for this recipe?

Absolutely! Store-bought gnocchi works perfectly and saves you time without compromising the delicious texture and flavor.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you want a lighter option, you can try half-and-half or a mix of milk with a little flour to help thicken, but keep in mind the sauce will be less rich.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, simply replace the chicken with hearty mushrooms or a plant-based protein and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a satisfying vegetarian version.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to toss in zucchini, peas, or even broccoli florets to pack in more veggies and color.

How spicy is the dish with red pepper flakes?

The red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth but not overwhelming heat. You can always omit or adjust the amount to suit your spice preference.

Final Thoughts

I cannot recommend the Creamy One-Pot Gnocchi with Chicken and Vegetables Recipe enough if you’re looking for a meal that hits all the cozy, flavorful notes with minimal fuss. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll return to time and time again for an effortless dinner that feels like a warm hug. So grab your ingredients, gather your loved ones, and enjoy every creamy, delicious bite!

Creamy One-Pot Gnocchi with Chicken and Vegetables Recipe

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4.2 from 45 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

This creamy chicken and gnocchi one-pot dish combines tender bite-sized chicken pieces, pillowy gnocchi, and fresh vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes in a rich, flavorful sauce made with chicken broth and heavy cream. It’s an easy, comforting recipe perfect for busy weeknights, delivering a hearty yet simple meal that the whole family will love.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

1 pound of gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
2 cups fresh spinach
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Gather Ingredients: Assemble all ingredients before starting to make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, adding diced onion. Cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent, then add minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
Add Vegetables: Add diced red bell pepper to the pot and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the pepper softens.
Cook Chicken: Season chicken pieces with salt, pepper, dried oregano, and dried basil. Add to the pot and cook 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through.
Add Gnocchi and Broth: Stir in gnocchi (no need to pre-cook if store-bought), then pour in the chicken broth. Make sure the gnocchi is submerged, and bring to a gentle boil.
Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the gnocchi to cook and soak up flavors.
Add Tomatoes and Spinach: Remove lid and stir in halved cherry tomatoes and fresh spinach gently to combine.
Add Cream: Pour in heavy cream, stirring to incorporate and create a rich, creamy sauce.
Finish Cooking: Let the dish simmer uncovered for another 3-4 minutes, until spinach wilts and tomatoes soften. Add red pepper flakes now if you desire heat.
Season and Cheese: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed, then stir in grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce.
Rest: Remove the pot from heat and let it sit for a couple of minutes to thicken the sauce.
Serve: Ladle the creamy chicken and gnocchi into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Pair with crusty bread or a green salad for a complete meal.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; flavors will deepen over time.
To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce is too thick.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian-American