Description
Lemon Chicken Gnocchi
A comforting dish featuring tender pan-fried chicken paired with pillowy gnocchi in a rich lemon cream sauce. Perfect for a quick, one-pan meal that’s ready in 30 minutes! The bright lemon flavor combined with creamy parmesan makes it irresistible. Inspired by traditional Italian flavors, this dish is a modern twist on classic gnocchi and is perfect for busy weeknights or a special weekend treat. Enjoy the blend of zesty lemon and creamy comfort in every bite!
2 large chicken breasts
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp lemon pepper seasoning
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 cup heavy cream
1 lb uncooked potato gnocchi
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
2 cups fresh baby spinach
Salt & pepper to taste
Directions
1. Cut chicken in half to make 4 cutlets. Season with garlic powder and lemon pepper.
2. Heat oil and butter in a skillet. Sear chicken for 5-6 mins per side until golden. Set aside.
3. Add garlic, broth, and lemon juice to the skillet. Stir in cream and gnocchi, cooking until thickened.
4. Add parmesan, spinach, and chicken back in. Serve immediately.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Kcal: 500 per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results. First, place the chicken breast on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, slice each breast horizontally into two even, thinner cutlets. Pat them dry with a paper towel; this ensures a good sear. Season both sides generously with garlic powder, lemon pepper, salt, and black pepper. In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken cutlets. Sear without moving for 5-6 minutes per side, until a golden-brown crust forms and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Transfer to a plate and tent with foil.
Reduce heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the pan. This is called deglazing and adds immense flavor. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the uncooked gnocchi directly to the sauce. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gnocchi is tender and the sauce has thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon.
Serving Suggestions
This rich dish pairs beautifully with lighter sides. Serve it with a simple arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. For a heartier meal, add a side of roasted asparagus or green beans. Garnish each plate with extra grated Parmesan, a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil, and a twist of black pepper. A slice of crusty bread is essential for soaking up every last drop of the delicious lemon cream sauce.
How-to Summary
To summarize: Slice and season chicken, then pan-sear until golden. Remove chicken. In the same pan, make the sauce by sautéing garlic, deglazing with broth and lemon juice, then simmering with cream and gnocchi. Finish by stirring in Parmesan and spinach until wilted, then return the chicken to the pan to warm through. Serve hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pre-cooked gnocchi? Yes, but add it later. If using shelf-stable pre-cooked gnocchi, add it in the final step with the spinach to just warm through, preventing it from becoming mushy.
How can I make this dish lighter? Substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream, though the sauce will be less thick. You can also use a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water) to help thicken it.
My sauce is too thin. How do I fix it? Let it simmer for a few more minutes uncovered. If needed, create a quick slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water) and stir it into the simmering sauce until thickened.
Can I use a different protein? Absolutely. Thin-cut pork chops or large shrimp (added in the last 3-4 minutes of cooking) work wonderfully. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Pan: Sear chicken in batches if necessary. Overcrowding steams the chicken instead of creating a flavorful sear.
- Using High Heat for the Sauce: After searing, reduce the heat. Boiling the cream can cause it to separate or curdle.
- Overcooking the Gnocchi: Gnocchi cooks quickly and will become gummy if boiled too long. Follow package directions and test for tenderness.
- Adding Cheese Too Early: Add Parmesan off the heat or on very low heat to prevent it from clumping and becoming stringy.
Conclusion
This Lemon Chicken Gnocchi is the ultimate weeknight hero, transforming simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal in one pan. The balance of zesty lemon, rich cream, and savory Parmesan creates a comforting yet elegant sauce that clings perfectly to tender chicken and pillowy gnocchi. It’s a versatile recipe that invites customization but delivers consistent, delicious results every time. Give it a try for your next dinner—it’s sure to become a regular in your rotation.