Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a one-pan meal that combines tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and vibrant vegetables all in one skillet. The Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is that perfect dish—packed with rich, tangy sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach, finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and fragrant basil. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or entertaining friends, this skillet recipe delivers comfort and bold flavors without the fuss. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to bring some Italian-inspired magic to your table with minimal effort.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Gnocchi Skillet stands out for several reasons. First, the combination of gnocchi and chicken makes for a hearty, filling meal that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple to prepare. The sun-dried tomatoes add a burst of umami and a slight tang that elevates the entire dish, balancing the richness of the Parmesan cheese perfectly.

What’s more, this recipe requires only one skillet, which means fewer dishes to wash and a quicker cleanup—always a win in my book. The use of fresh spinach adds a healthy dose of greens without overpowering the other flavors. It’s also incredibly versatile; you can easily swap out ingredients or add extras to suit your taste. If you love dishes like creamy chicken pastas or gnocchi bakes, you’ll appreciate how this skillet delivers all those comfort-food vibes in a lighter, more streamlined way.

If you’re curious about incorporating sun-dried tomatoes in other dishes, check out this flavorful Sun Dried Tomato Pesto recipe that pairs beautifully with pasta and bread.

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken breast, diced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cups gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

How To Make Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the diced chicken breast, seasoning it with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken until it’s golden brown on the outside and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Gnocchi

In the same skillet, add the gnocchi directly (no need to pre-boil if using store-bought; they cook quickly in the skillet). Let them cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a light golden crust. This step adds a lovely texture contrast to the dish.

Step 3: Incorporate Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Broth

Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet with the gnocchi. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to lift any browned bits—this adds incredible flavor. Stir everything together and let the mixture simmer for about 3-4 minutes, allowing the broth to reduce slightly.

Step 4: Add Spinach and Chicken Back In

Toss in the fresh spinach and the cooked chicken pieces. Stir until the spinach wilts and everything is heated through, which should take about 2 minutes. This step ensures the greens stay vibrant and fresh-tasting.

Step 5: Finish with Parmesan and Basil

Turn off the heat and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the skillet. Mix gently so the cheese melts slightly into the warm gnocchi and chicken. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and aroma.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding the skillet while cooking chicken can cause it to steam rather than brown. Cook in batches if needed.
• Skipping the step of browning the gnocchi can result in a mushy texture instead of the desirable crispy edges.
• Not letting the chicken broth reduce enough might leave the dish watery instead of saucy and flavorful.
• Adding spinach too early can overcook it, leading to a dull color and loss of nutrients.
• Using too much Parmesan at the end can overpower the delicate balance of flavors—measure carefully.

Variations and Customizations

• Swap fresh spinach for kale or arugula for a different leafy green flavor and texture.
• Add a splash of cream or coconut milk in step 3 for a creamier sauce.
• Include sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers to boost the vegetable content and add earthiness.
• Use turkey breast instead of chicken for a leaner protein option.
• For a spicy twist, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes while cooking the chicken.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Gnocchi Skillet in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce and prevent the gnocchi from drying out. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

If you want to freeze leftovers, place them in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Note that the texture of the gnocchi may change slightly after freezing, but the flavors will remain delicious.

FAQ

Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?

Yes! Frozen gnocchi works beautifully in this skillet. Just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they cook through and get that nice golden crust.

Is it necessary to use chicken broth, or can I substitute it?

Chicken broth adds depth and moisture to the dish, but you can substitute it with vegetable broth or even water with a pinch of salt if needed. Keep in mind that broth enhances flavor more than water.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Absolutely! Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. Nutritional yeast sprinkled on top can also provide a cheesy flavor without dairy.

What side dishes go well with Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Gnocchi Skillet?

This skillet is a complete meal on its own, but if you want to round it out, a simple green salad or some crusty bread work wonderfully. You might also enjoy pairing it with a light soup like the Spinach Artichoke Chicken Soup for a cozy, flavorful combo.

Conclusion

The Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a delightful marriage of tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and vibrant sun-dried tomatoes that brings a fresh twist to your dinner routine. It’s quick to prepare, packed with flavors, and versatile enough to customize to your liking. Whether you’re craving a comforting meal or looking to impress without spending hours in the kitchen, this skillet recipe is a fantastic choice. Give it a try and enjoy a taste of simple, satisfying Italian-inspired cooking at home.

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