Creamy Tuscan Chicken and Gnocchi: A Simple, Satisfying Recipe
Are you looking for a delicious and easy weeknight dinner that's both comforting and flavorful? Look no further than this creamy Tuscan chicken and gnocchi recipe! This dish is packed with fresh ingredients, boasts a rich and savory sauce, and is surprisingly simple to make. Perfect for a cozy night in or impressing guests, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
What You'll Need:
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people. Feel free to adjust the quantities based on your needs.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 pound gnocchi
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for the gnocchi.
- While the water heats, prepare the chicken.
Cooking the Chicken and Sauce:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the canned diced tomatoes (undrained), chicken broth, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, basil, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
Combining Everything:
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- While the sauce simmers, cook the gnocchi according to package directions. Usually, this involves adding the gnocchi to the boiling water and cooking until they float to the surface.
- Drain the cooked gnocchi and add them to the skillet with the chicken and sauce. Toss gently to coat.
Serving:
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor, use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Substitute sun-dried tomatoes for the canned diced tomatoes.
- Add other vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Why This Recipe Works:
This creamy Tuscan chicken and gnocchi recipe is a winner because it's:
- Easy to make: The simple steps and readily available ingredients make this a perfect weeknight meal.
- Delicious and satisfying: The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and pillowy gnocchi create a truly comforting dish.
- Versatile: Easily adaptable to your taste preferences and what you have on hand.
- Great value: Affordable ingredients create a hearty and filling meal.
This recipe is perfect for a family dinner, a casual get-together, or a romantic night in. Enjoy!
