Name: One Skillet Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken and Gnocchi
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 4 small); 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon paprika; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil), drained and chopped; 1 ½ cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version); ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 (16 oz) package potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat); 2 cups fresh spinach (or kale); 1 tablespoon butter; Fresh basil or extra Parmesan for garnish

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One Skillet Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken and Gnocchi is a rich, creamy, and flavor-packed dish that comes together in just 30 minutes. Tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a luscious sun-dried tomato cream sauce make this an irresistible one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-pan meal – Easy cleanup with minimal dishes.
Rich and creamy – A velvety sauce made with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Parmesan.
Quick and easy – Ready in just 30 minutes.
Versatile – Serve as a full meal or pair with a side salad and bread.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces
Potato gnocchi (fresh or shelf-stable)
Sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil), chopped
Olive oil
Butter
Garlic, minced
Chicken broth
Heavy cream
Parmesan cheese, grated
Italian seasoning
Red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
Salt and pepper
Fresh spinach (optional for extra greens)
Fresh basil (for garnish)

Directions

Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 5-6 minutes until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
Sauté the Garlic & Sun-Dried Tomatoes: In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Make the Sauce: Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Add the Gnocchi: Stir in the gnocchi and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.
Return the Chicken & Add Spinach: Add the chicken back to the skillet and stir in fresh spinach (if using). Let cook for 2 more minutes until the spinach wilts.
Serve: Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan. Enjoy warm!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and add mushrooms or extra spinach.
Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Cheese Swap: Try Pecorino Romano or mozzarella for a different cheesy flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate.
Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use frozen gnocchi?

Yes! Just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs well with garlic bread, a side salad, or roasted vegetables.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce won’t be as thick. Add a little cornstarch slurry if needed.

How do I keep the sauce from curdling?

Simmer on low heat and avoid boiling the heavy cream.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried?

Yes, but sun-dried tomatoes add a deeper, richer flavor.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Prep everything and reheat gently before serving.

Can I add bacon?

Absolutely! Crispy bacon adds extra smoky flavor.

Is this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free gnocchi and check ingredient labels for any hidden gluten.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes! Add shredded rotisserie chicken in step 5 instead of searing fresh chicken.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Simmer longer, add more Parmesan, or stir in a cornstarch slurry if needed.

Conclusion

One Skillet Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken and Gnocchi is a creamy, comforting dish that’s quick, easy, and packed with bold flavors. Whether you make it for a cozy dinner at home or meal prep for the week, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Pair it with your favorite sides, experiment with variations, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in just 30 minutes!