Introduction
Welcome to a delightful kitchen adventure! Today, we’re whipping up a hearty and comforting dish that’s sure to bring a smile to your face: Lemon Chicken Gnocchi. This recipe combines tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a creamy, zesty sauce that sings with flavor. It’s a perfect choice for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends and family. Let’s dive into this simple yet indulgent meal!
Ingredients
- 1 pound gnocchi
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- 1 cup spinach, roughly chopped
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the gnocchi according to package instructions. Once they float to the top, they are ready. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and let it heat until shimmering.
- Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet and cook until they are beautifully golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, letting those delightful aromas fill your kitchen.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the heavy cream, lemon zest, lemon juice, dried thyme, and season generously with salt and pepper. Let this luscious mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Add the chopped spinach and cook for an additional 2 minutes until it wilts down beautifully.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the gnocchi, gently stirring to combine everything until heated through.
- Finally, sprinkle the dish with grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving up this scrumptious meal.
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to customize the greens! Kale or arugula can be delightful substitutes for spinach.
- If you prefer a bit more tang, add an extra splash of lemon juice before serving.
- This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to two days.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe employs some simple yet essential cooking techniques:
- Boiling: Perfectly cooking the gnocchi in salted water ensures they’re soft and pillowy.
- Sautéing: Brown the chicken to develop rich flavors and a lovely golden crust before adding other ingredients.
- Simmering: A low and slow simmer helps meld flavors and thicken the sauce beautifully.
FAQ
Can I use homemade gnocchi? Absolutely! Homemade gnocchi will elevate this dish even more. Just ensure they’re cooked to perfection.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free? Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative and skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese.
Can I freeze Lemon Chicken Gnocchi? For best results, it’s recommended to enjoy it fresh. Freezing may affect the gnocchi’s texture.
Conclusion
There you have it, a bowl of Lemon Chicken Gnocchi packed with bright flavors and creamy goodness! This dish not only warms the heart but also brightens up any meal. Whether you’re serving it on a casual Sunday night or during a gathering, it’s bound to be a hit. Enjoy every bite and the wonderful reactions that come with sharing this delightful recipe with loved ones!