Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Pan

By Tyla | Last modified on Jan 31, 2026

Featured in: Dinner

Indulge in a comforting one-pan meal where tender, juicy chicken pieces meet pillowy gnocchi, all enveloped in a rich Parmesan cream sauce. The addition of sun-dried tomatoes adds a subtle tang and depth, creating a dish that’s both hearty and sophisticated.

This creamy chicken gnocchi pan is perfect for busy weeknights yet impressive enough for weekend dinners. With each bite, you’ll experience a velvety sauce balanced with herbs and a gentle hint of spice, making it a memorable crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy one-pan meal with minimal cleanup.
Perfectly tender chicken combined with soft, flavorful gnocchi.
Rich Parmesan cream sauce enhanced by sun-dried tomatoes and herbs.
Balanced spices that offer warmth without overpowering.

Ingredients

Chicken breasts (2 large, cubed): Tender, skinless chicken providing a juicy protein base for the dish.
Flour (1/2 cup): Used for dredging to create a light coating that helps brown the chicken.
Salt (1/2 tsp): Enhances all flavors, ensuring balanced seasoning throughout the dish.
Black pepper (1/2 tsp): Adds mild heat and depth to the chicken coating and sauce.
Paprika (1/2 tsp): Provides subtle smokiness and vibrant color to the chicken crust.
Garlic powder (1/2 tsp): Infuses a warm, savory note into the chicken dredge mix.
Olive oil (2 tbsp): Delivers a fruity richness and helps achieve a golden sear on chicken.
Butter (2 tbsp): Adds creamy depth and richness when cooking the chicken and sauce.
Minced garlic (2 tbsp): Fresh garlic that releases aromatic flavors during sauce preparation.
Chicken broth (1 cup): Builds a flavorful base and balances the creaminess of the sauce.
Heavy cream (1 cup): Creates the luxuriously creamy texture for the Parmesan sauce.
Parmesan cheese (1 cup, grated): Gives a sharp, nutty flavor essential to the creamy sauce.
Oregano (1/2 tsp): Adds earthy herbal undertones complementing the chicken and tomatoes.
Thyme (1/2 tsp): Offers subtle floral notes that deepen the sauce complexity.
Red pepper flakes (1/2 tsp): Introduce a gentle heat to balance the richness.
Sun-dried tomatoes (1/3 cup, chopped): Provide a sweet and tangy burst enhancing the sauce’s flavor profile.
Gnocchi (1 pack, typically 16 oz): Soft Italian potato dumplings that soak up the creamy sauce delightfully.

Instructions

Prepare the seasoned flour mixture: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. This blend ensures the chicken pieces acquire a flavorful, slightly crispy coating when cooked.
Dredge the chicken cubes: Coat each chicken cube evenly with the seasoned flour mixture. This step locks in moisture and forms a golden crust that will enhance both texture and taste.
Sear the chicken in the skillet: Heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Add the coated chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove and set aside to prevent overcooking.
Create the creamy Parmesan sauce: Reduce heat to medium-low and add minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth, heavy cream, and sprinkle Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously to meld the flavors and create a smooth, creamy sauce base.
Incorporate herbs and sun-dried tomatoes: Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes. These ingredients infuse the sauce with herbal complexity and a subtle spicy kick, elevating the dish.
Cook gnocchi until tender: Add the gnocchi directly to the skillet, cover with a lid, and let simmer for 2-3 minutes. The gnocchi will soften as they absorb the flavors of the sauce, making each bite irresistible.
Combine chicken with sauce and gnocchi: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and gently stir everything together. This final step allows the chicken to soak up delicious sauce flavors, creating a harmonious dish ready to serve immediately.

You Must Know

Do not overcook the chicken to maintain tenderness and juiciness.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for richest flavor and best melting texture.
Covering the skillet while cooking gnocchi helps them cook evenly and avoid sticking.
Adjust red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this creamy chicken gnocchi pan garnished with fresh parsley or basil for a burst of color and freshness. Pair with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness.

Professional Tips

Dry the chicken well before dredging to get a better sear and crust.
For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, but expect a thinner sauce.
Sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil provide a more intense flavor than dry ones.
Try finishing the dish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a bright contrast.

FAQs

Can I use frozen gnocchi for this dish?: Yes, frozen gnocchi can be used; just add a couple extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they are fully heated through.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?: You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free option, but the sauce will be less rich.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?: You can cook the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead, then reheat gently and add gnocchi just before serving to maintain pasta texture.
Is this recipe gluten-free?: Traditional gnocchi and flour contain gluten. Use gluten-free gnocchi and flour alternative to make it gluten-free.
How spicy is this dish?: It has a mild spice level from red pepper flakes, which can be adjusted or omitted according to your preference.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?: Yes, spinach or mushrooms can be added during the sauce step for extra nutrition and flavor.