Are you ready to indulge in a dish that perfectly marries creamy richness with comforting Italian flavors? Look no further than this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi with Red Sauce! In just 35 minutes, you can whip up a delightful meal that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Imagine tender gnocchi enveloped in a luscious, velvety sauce, with juicy chicken and vibrant spinach adding both flavor and color. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and joy to your dinner table. Dive into our easy-to-follow recipe and discover how to create a culinary masterpiece that will impress everyone!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound gnocchi
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 2 cups red pasta sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by dicing the cooked chicken, chopping spinach, and having all measured ingredients ready on the countertop.
- Place a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat and add the red pasta sauce, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Pour in the heavy cream and gently stir to create a smooth, creamy red sauce, reducing heat to medium-low.
- Add the diced cooked chicken to the sauce, stirring to ensure even distribution and allowing the chicken to warm through.
- Bring a separate pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook the gnocchi according to package instructions, typically 2-3 minutes until they float to the surface.
- Drain the gnocchi thoroughly and immediately add them to the sauce, gently folding to coat each piece with the creamy red sauce.
- Incorporate the chopped spinach into the mixture, stirring until the spinach begins to wilt and turns a vibrant green.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting flavors as needed.
- Remove from heat and let the dish rest for 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Serve hot, optionally garnishing with fresh basil or grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, prepare all your ingredients in advance. Dice the cooked chicken and chop the spinach, so everything is ready to go when you start cooking.
- Sauce Consistency: When mixing the heavy cream with the red pasta sauce, keep the heat on medium-low to prevent the cream from curdling, ensuring a smooth and creamy texture.
- Cook Gnocchi Wisely: Pay close attention to the gnocchi while cooking; they are done when they float to the surface. Overcooking can make them mushy.
- Flavor Boost: For an extra flavor kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or Italian herbs like oregano and basil to the sauce.
- Garnish for Presentation: Don’t forget to garnish your dish with fresh basil or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an elegant touch that enhances the dish's appeal.
- Let it Rest: Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully, making every bite even more delicious.
- Pairing Suggestions: Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad to create a complete Italian dining experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 445kcal
Carbohydrates: 33g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 105mg
