This Chicken Gnocchi Alfredo is pure comfort food! Soft gnocchi bobbing in a creamy, cheesy Alfredo sauce is simply irresistible. Plus, with tender chicken pieces, it’s a complete meal!
I love how filling it is without being too heavy. You can serve it with a side salad or some garlic bread, and you’ve got a winner for dinner! Who’s ready for seconds? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potato Gnocchi: Fresh or store-bought gnocchi works well. You can also use cauliflower gnocchi for a lower-carb option. If you’re feeling adventurous, homemade gnocchi is fun to make!
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are easy and quick to cook. You can substitute with chicken thighs for more flavor. Tofu or mushrooms are great options for a vegetarian twist.
Heavy Cream and Milk: Heavy cream gives this dish its rich texture. You can use half-and-half if you want something lighter or even coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Just keep in mind the flavor will slightly change.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan delivers the best flavor. If you can’t find it, Pecorino Romano can work too. Nutritional yeast is a nice vegan alternative to add a cheese-like flavor.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is key for taste. If you run out, garlic powder can be a decent substitute, but use less than what the recipe calls for, about 1/8 teaspoon.
How Do I Make Sure My Alfredo Sauce Is Perfectly Creamy?
Making a creamy Alfredo sauce is all about timing and heat control. Here’s a simple way to achieve the best results:
- Cook the garlic just until fragrant; don’t let it burn. This takes only about 1 minute.
- When adding cream, let it simmer gently. Boiling can cause the sauce to separate.
- Stir the cheese in gradually. This helps it melt smoothly and avoids clumping.
- If your sauce seems too thick, add a splash of pasta water or milk to reach your desired consistency.
With these tips in hand, your Alfredo sauce will be rich, creamy, and utterly delicious!
How to Make Chicken Gnocchi Alfredo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) potato gnocchi
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional for topping)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning or dried oregano
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Chicken Gnocchi Alfredo takes about 20 minutes of prep and cooking time. It’s a quick and easy dish that will impress your family or guests without spending all evening in the kitchen. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Gnocchi:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add in your gnocchi. Cook until they float to the surface, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Once done, drain them and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add them to the skillet, cooking until they are golden brown and fully cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Alfredo Sauce:
Now, lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the butter and let it melt. After that, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant, but make sure it doesn’t burn!
4. Add Cream and Cheese:
Next, pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring well to combine. Let the mixture simmer for about 2-3 minutes until it starts to thicken slightly. Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s fully melted and the sauce is nice and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked chicken and gnocchi back into the skillet. Gently stir everything together to ensure that the chicken and gnocchi are fully coated with the creamy sauce.
6. Optional Baking:
If you want an extra cheesy and crispy topping, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. Then broil the skillet in the oven for about 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once ready, remove the skillet from the oven. Garnish your Chicken Gnocchi Alfredo with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a burst of flavor. Serve hot and enjoy every creamy bite!
Bon Appétit! Your delicious Chicken Gnocchi Alfredo is ready to delight your taste buds!
Can I Use Frozen Gnocchi for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen gnocchi can be used directly from the package—there’s no need to thaw. Just cook them according to the package instructions in boiling water until they float, then proceed with the recipe as usual!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a combination of milk and cream. For a dairy-free alternative, try using coconut milk or a cashew cream, but keep in mind they will add different flavors to the dish.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to help restore the sauce’s creaminess.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and Alfredo sauce a day in advance and store them separately in the fridge. When ready to serve, cook the gnocchi and combine everything in the skillet to warm through. Just be aware that the gnocchi are best made fresh!
