Creamy Chicken Gnocchi with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe

I absolutely love this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe because it hits that perfect balance between comforting and fresh. The tender gnocchi swimming in a luscious creamy sauce, combined with juicy chicken, vibrant spinach, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes makes for a dish that feels fancy yet is so easy to pull together on a weeknight.

When I first tried this recipe, it quickly became a go-to for cool evenings or when I want a meal that warms everyone up without spending hours in the kitchen. You’ll find that each bite carries a rich, satisfying flavor, and the spinach and sun-dried tomatoes add a brightness that keeps it from feeling too heavy. If you’re craving a crowd-pleaser that always delivers, this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe is worth making again and again.

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together seamlessly to create a rich yet fresh flavor profile. Make sure to use fresh spinach and quality sun-dried tomatoes for the best taste and texture.

• Olive oil: Use good-quality extra virgin olive oil for better flavor and a nice sear on the chicken.
• Chicken breast: Cubed chicken cooks quickly and evenly, perfect for this creamy dish.
• Garlic powder: Adds a subtle savory note without the fuss of fresh garlic.
• Onion powder: Pairs wonderfully with garlic powder to build a deep flavor base.
• Paprika: Gives a warm color and a mild smoky undertone that’s so inviting.
• Dried thyme: Adds an herby earthiness that complements the creamy sauce.
• Salt & Black pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
• Chicken broth: Provides a light savory liquid that deepens the sauce without heaviness. Vegetable broth can work too.
• Heavy cream: Key for richness and that dreamy creamy texture you’ll love.
• Cream cheese: Gives the sauce body and tangy creaminess that’s unique and delicious.
• Parmesan cheese: Offers a salty, nutty flavor that melts beautifully in the sauce.
• Butter: Added at the end to round out the sauce with silky smoothness.
• Gnocchi: Look for fresh or frozen gnocchi that cooks quickly and soaks up the sauce wonderfully.
• Fresh spinach: Be sure to rinse and drain it properly to avoid extra water diluting the sauce.
• Sun-dried tomatoes: Pack a concentrated sweet and tangy punch; chopped finely for even distribution.
• Fresh parsley: For a bright finishing touch and a pop of color.

Variations

I love how this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe adapts to whatever you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Don’t hesitate to tweak it — that’s part of the fun!

• Protein swaps: Tried shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker version; it’s perfect for nights you’re short on time.
• Spicy kick: Adding red pepper flakes wakes up the flavors and adds a gentle heat that my family goes crazy for.
• Vegetarian version: Leave out the chicken and boost the veggies — mushrooms or roasted zucchini work beautifully.
• Low-carb alternative: Use cauliflower gnocchi or sautéed zucchini noodles if you want to lighten it up without losing flavor.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Gnocchi with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe

Step 1: Sear the Chicken to Golden Perfection

Heat your olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Toss in the cubed chicken breast and cook, stirring a few times, until the pieces are no longer pink inside and have a lovely light brown color, around 6 to 8 minutes. Taking your time here pays off — don’t crowd the pan, or the chicken will steam instead of sear.

Step 2: Build Flavor with Seasonings and Broth

Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper evenly over the chicken. Stir well so every bite is seasoned perfectly. Then pour in the chicken broth, using your spoon to gently scrape any flavorful brown bits stuck to the bottom — that’s where the magic is!

Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce

Turn the heat down to medium-low and add the heavy cream, cream cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Whisk or stir continuously until the cream cheese melts completely and the sauce turns smooth and rich, about 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in the butter last to give the sauce a silky finish you’ll notice right away.

Step 4: Cook Gnocchi and Combine

While the sauce simmers, bring a big pot of salted water to a boil. Add your gnocchi and cook according to the package instructions — usually about 2 to 3 minutes or until they float to the top. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the gnocchi directly into the skillet with the creamy chicken. This way, the gnocchi soak up all the delicious sauce.

Step 5: Add Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Toss the fresh spinach in and stir gently until it just wilts, around 1 to 2 minutes — you want it tender, not mushy. Next, fold in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and heat everything through for one minute more. Finally, remove from the heat and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a fresh, herbal note.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Gnocchi with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe

Garnishes

I love topping this dish with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and fresh parsley — it adds a pop of color and a little freshness that brightens every bite. Sometimes I even add a drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice to cut through the richness.

Side Dishes

This recipe pairs beautifully with a simple green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or some roasted asparagus. If you want to go bigger, garlic bread or crusty bread is a fantastic, cozy side to soak up all that sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, I like serving this in individual shallow bowls sprinkled with microgreens and a small wedge of lemon on the side. You can also add a few toasted pine nuts or walnuts on top for an unexpected crunch that impresses every time.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover Creamy Chicken Gnocchi with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe in an airtight container in the fridge, and it usually keeps well for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, but I recommend reheating gently to keep the sauce smooth.

Freezing

Freezing this dish is doable, but I prefer freezing the components separately if possible — for example, cooked chicken and cooked gnocchi without sauce. The creamy sauce can separate when frozen. If you must freeze it together, reheat slowly and whisk well to bring it back together.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much. Avoid microwaving on high as that can cause the sauce to seize or curdle. Stir often for the creamiest results.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe is definitely one I come back to whenever I want something comforting without a lot of fuss. The way those tender gnocchi soak up all that luscious sauce just makes every mouthful a delight. If you’re looking for a recipe that’s both approachable and impressive, give this a try — I promise it’ll become a favorite in your rotation as it did in mine!

Print