Description
This Delicious One Pan Lemon Chicken Gnocchi recipe combines tender chicken breasts with soft gnocchi, fresh baby spinach, and bright lemon flavors. Cooked entirely in a single skillet, this easy and flavorful dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, delivering a comforting meal with a zesty twist.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein & Dairy
- 2 boneless and skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
Vegetables & Herbs
- 3 minced garlic cloves
- 2 cups of baby spinach
- Zest of 1 lemon
Pantry Items
- 1 pound of gnocchi
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 cup of chicken broth
- Juice from 1 lemon
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Season the chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and half of the lemon zest to infuse the meat with citrusy flavor.
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, ensuring the flavor is released without burning.
- Cook the gnocchi: Add the gnocchi and chicken broth to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the gnocchi to cook through and absorb the broth.
- Combine chicken and spinach: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet along with the baby spinach. Stir gently until the spinach wilts and everything is heated through.
- Finish with lemon and cheese: Drizzle the dish with lemon juice, sprinkle with the remaining lemon zest and grated Parmesan cheese. Toss gently to combine and distribute the flavors before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken breasts with thighs if preferred, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
- For a creamier texture, add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half when cooking the gnocchi.
- Fresh lemon zest and juice are key to achieving a bright, fresh flavor—avoid using bottled lemon juice if possible.
- Feel free to add crushed red pepper flakes for a slight kick.
- Use gluten-free gnocchi to make this recipe gluten-free.
