Creamy Chicken & Gnocchi Recipe: Mushroom-Spinach Magic

Comfort meets culinary magic in this creamy chicken, mushroom, spinach and gnocchi delight that promises to satisfy deep hunger pangs.

Soft potato dumplings nestle perfectly among tender chicken pieces and earthy mushrooms.

Vibrant spinach adds a nutritious pop of color to the dish.

Hearty ingredients blend seamlessly, creating a symphony of textures and flavors.

Each forkful promises a warm embrace of richness and satisfaction.

Chefs of all skill levels can master this simple yet impressive meal.

Flavor Twists On Chicken Mushroom Gnocchi

• Low-Carb Cauliflower Gnocchi Swap: Replace potato gnocchi with cauliflower gnocchi for a lower-carb alternative that maintains the creamy texture and rich flavor profile.
• Mediterranean Herb Chicken Remix: Substitute Italian seasoning with za'atar spice blend, add kalamata olives, and swap spinach for fresh arugula to create a Mediterranean-inspired version.
• Dairy-Free Coconut Cream Option: Use full-fat coconut milk instead of heavy cream and replace chicken with plant-based chicken alternative for a dairy-free and potentially vegan adaptation of the recipe.
• Gluten-Free Protein Boost: Use gluten-free gnocchi and add quinoa or white beans for extra protein and to accommodate gluten-sensitive dietary needs.

Serving Ideas For Creamy Chicken Mushroom Gnocchi

• Rustic Family Dinner Night: Serve this hearty dish directly from the skillet, creating a warm, inviting centerpiece that encourages family-style sharing and conversation.
• Gourmet Plating Style: Arrange gnocchi and chicken on a white ceramic plate, garnish with fresh parsley or basil leaves, and sprinkle remaining mushrooms on top for an elegant restaurant-inspired presentation.
• Wine Pairing Delight: Complement the creamy, rich flavors with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or a light Chardonnay that balances the dish's robust chicken and mushroom notes.
• Leftover Lunch Transformation: Store remaining portions in airtight containers and enjoy a delicious next-day lunch, as the flavors will have developed even more depth overnight.

Storing Chicken Mushroom Spinach Gnocchi Safely

• Store the chicken, mushroom, spinach, and gnocchi dish in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Transfer the cooled dish to freezer-safe containers or zip-lock bags. Seal tightly, removing excess air. Freeze for up to 2 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.
• Place a single serving in a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming.

FAQs

• Why use Italian seasoning for this recipe?

Italian seasoning adds a blend of herbs like oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary that enhance the overall flavor profile of the chicken and sauce, giving the dish a classic Mediterranean taste.

• Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs with breasts, but be careful not to overcook them. Chicken breasts tend to dry out faster, so reduce cooking time and monitor internal temperature closely to maintain moisture.

• What type of gnocchi works best for this recipe?

Potato gnocchi is recommended as it holds up well in the creamy sauce and provides a soft, pillowy texture that complements the chicken and mushrooms perfectly.

Creamy Chicken, Mushroom, Spinach, And Gnocchi Benefits

• Boost Quick Comfort: Dive into a one-pan wonder that transforms simple ingredients into a creamy, satisfying meal without complicated cooking techniques.
• Maximize Flavor Layers: Carefully seasoned chicken, caramelized mushrooms, and wilted spinach create a rich, complex taste profile that elevates everyday dinner.
• Customize with Ease: Adjust spice levels with red pepper flakes, swap proteins, or modify vegetables to match your personal preferences and pantry contents.
• Minimal Cleanup Magic: Using a single skillet means less washing up, making this recipe perfect for busy home cooks who want delicious food without extensive kitchen work.

Ingredients For Chicken Mushroom Spinach Gnocchi

• Chicken Thighs: A flavorful and tender meat that serves as the primary protein in this hearty dish.

• Potato Gnocchi: Soft, pillowy Italian dumplings that create a comforting and substantial base for the recipe.

• Mushrooms, Spinach: Mushrooms add an earthy depth and umami flavor, while spinach provides a fresh, nutritious green element to the dish.

• Chicken Broth, Heavy Cream: Chicken broth adds rich flavor depth, and heavy cream creates a luxurious, creamy sauce.

• Italian Seasoning, Chili Powder, Paprika, Salt, Freshly Ground Black Pepper, Red Pepper Flakes: A complex mix of herbs and spices that enhance the overall flavor profile and add layers of warmth and complexity.

• Garlic: A pungent, flavorful ingredient that provides a classic base note to the dish.

• Olive Oil: A heart-healthy oil used for sautéing and adding subtle flavor to the ingredients.

How To Cook Creamy Chicken Mushroom Gnocchi

Step 1: Season the Chicken

• Italian seasoning
• Chili powder
• Salt
• Freshly ground black pepper

Massage the spices into the chicken, ensuring every inch is coated with flavor.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat until it’s perfectly warm.

Drizzle olive oil and carefully place chicken thighs.

Let them sizzle undisturbed for 5 minutes, creating a golden-brown crust that locks in juiciness.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken Through

Flip the chicken, reduce heat to low-medium, and continue cooking for another 5 minutes.

Check doneness with a meat thermometer – you’re aiming for 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part.

Step 4: Mushroom Magic

Remove chicken from the skillet.

In the same pan, add olive oil and toss in sliced mushrooms.

Crank up the heat and cook for 1-2 minutes until they’re beautifully caramelized and tender.

Step 5: Gnocchi Goodness

• Potato gnocchi
• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream
• Minced garlic
• Italian seasoning
• Paprika

Bring to a bubbling boil, stirring to blend all the delicious flavors.

Step 6: Simmer and Soften

Cover and let the gnocchi cook for 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to develop its rich, creamy personality.

Step 7: Spinach Surprise

Toss in fresh spinach and cook for 5 minutes.

Watch it wilt and integrate into the creamy sauce, creating a vibrant green contrast.

Step 8: Mushroom Encore

Stir in half the cooked mushrooms, adding an extra layer of earthy goodness.

Step 9: Final Flourish

• Salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Red pepper flakes (optional)

Return the perfectly cooked chicken to the skillet and top with remaining mushrooms.

Serve hot and enjoy your restaurant-worthy meal straight from your kitchen!

Tips For Creamy Chicken Mushroom Gnocchi

• Let the skillet heat thoroughly before adding oil to create a golden-brown, crispy exterior that locks in moisture and flavor.
• Cook mushrooms on high heat briefly to maintain their firmness and develop a rich, caramelized taste without becoming soggy.
• Simmer gnocchi precisely for 5 minutes to achieve the ideal tender texture without becoming mushy or overcooked.
• Adjust cooking time for spinach to control sauce thickness, allowing it to reduce and become more creamy or remain lighter.
• Add red pepper flakes strategically to introduce a personalized heat level that suits individual taste preferences.

Creamy Chicken, Mushroom, Spinach and Gnocchi Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 25 reviews

• Total Time: 33 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Comfort meets elegance in this hearty Creamy Chicken, Mushroom, Spinach and Gnocchi dish that blends rustic Italian flavors with modern culinary finesse. Warm, comforting ingredients meld together, creating a soul-satisfying meal that welcomes you to savor each luxurious bite.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Proteins:

• 1.3 pounds (590 grams) chicken thighs, skinless and boneless

Mushrooms and Vegetables:

• 8 ounces (226 grams) cremini mushrooms
• 5 ounces (142 grams) fresh spinach
• 4 cloves garlic, minced

Pantry and Seasoning Ingredients:

• 16 ounces (454 grams) potato gnocchi
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning or herbs from Provence
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• salt
• black pepper
• red pepper flakes

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Infuse chicken thighs with a robust blend of Italian seasoning, chili powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper, ensuring comprehensive flavor coverage.
2. Preheat a high-sided skillet on medium heat for 2 minutes, creating an optimal cooking surface.
3. Drizzle olive oil into the hot skillet and carefully place seasoned chicken thighs, allowing them to sear undisturbed for 5 minutes until a golden crust forms.
4. Reduce heat to low-medium, flip chicken thighs, and continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Extract chicken from skillet and set aside, preserving the flavorful cooking residue.
6. Introduce another tablespoon of olive oil, rapidly sauté sliced mushrooms on high heat for 1-2 minutes until caramelized and tender, then remove from pan.
7. Combine potato gnocchi, chicken broth, heavy cream, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and paprika directly into the skillet.
8. Elevate heat to medium, bringing the mixture to a vigorous boil while stirring thoroughly, then cover and simmer gnocchi for approximately 5 minutes.
9. Incorporate fresh spinach, stirring frequently for 5 minutes until leaves wilt and sauce reaches desired consistency.
10. Fold in half of the previously cooked mushrooms, distributing them evenly throughout the dish.
11. Enhance with additional salt, coarse black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for personalized heat.
12. Reintroduce seared chicken thighs to the skillet, garnishing with remaining mushrooms for a final flavor integration.

Notes

• Master your skillet heat to ensure perfect searing, allowing the chicken to develop a golden-brown crust without burning.
• Use a meat thermometer to check chicken doneness precisely, preventing undercooked or dry meat.
• Choose fresh, high-quality mushrooms for maximum flavor and texture in the dish.
• Adjust cooking time for gnocchi based on package instructions to achieve the ideal tender-yet-firm consistency.
• For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt to reduce calories.
• Add red pepper flakes gradually to control spice level and customize heat according to personal preference.
• Consider using gluten-free gnocchi for a celiac-friendly adaptation of the recipe.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 23 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 530 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 320 mg
• Fat: 32 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 27 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 38 g
• Cholesterol: 110 mg