Description
This Creamy Chicken Parmesan Gnocchi Bake is a delightful, comforting dish combining tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a rich, cheesy Parmesan cream sauce. Baked to golden perfection, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner that feels special yet is simple to prepare.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Sauce
- 1 pound Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cloves Minced Garlic
- 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
- 1 cup Heavy Cream
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for cooking
Pasta and Cheese
- 16 ounces Store-bought Gnocchi
- 1 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese (divided)
Garnish
- 1 handful Chopped Fresh Parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the creamy gnocchi mixture.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breast, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until the chicken turns no longer pink and is cooked through.
- Sauté the Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional minute to release its aroma and flavors into the chicken.
- Add Cream and Simmer: Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Season and Add Cheese: Stir in the Italian seasoning and half of the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well to create a flavorful sauce.
- Cook the Gnocchi: Meanwhile, cook the store-bought gnocchi according to the package instructions, then drain thoroughly and set aside.
- Combine Gnocchi and Sauce: Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet with the chicken cream sauce. Gently fold the gnocchi into the sauce to coat evenly without breaking them.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Grease a baking dish and transfer the gnocchi-chicken mixture into it. Spread it evenly to prepare for baking.
- Add Topping: Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the mixture to create a golden, cheesy crust when baked.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving hot for a fresh, vibrant finish.
Notes
- For extra richness, you can add a handful of shredded mozzarella along with Parmesan on top before baking.
- If you prefer a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less thick.
- Make sure not to overcook gnocchi when boiling, as they will cook further in the oven.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables.
- Use fresh Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and melting quality.
- You can prepare this dish ahead of time, up to the baking step, and refrigerate; then bake when ready to serve.
