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Bright & Creamy One Pan Lemon Chicken Gnocchi – Fresh, Cozy & Weeknight-Ready

If you’re craving a dinner that feels fresh, comforting, and effortlessly elegant, this One Pan Lemon Chicken Gnocchi is the answer. Tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a creamy lemon-kissed sauce come together in a single pan for a meal that’s both vibrant and satisfying. It’s the perfect balance of bright citrus flavor and cozy creaminess—ideal for busy weeknights when you want something special without extra cleanup. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Everything cooks together, allowing the gnocchi to soak up the savory lemon sauce while the chicken stays juicy and flavorful. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this dish delivers a restaurant-quality experience at home.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Simple ingredients create big fresh flavor.
Protein
  • 1½ lb boneless skinless chicken breasts or chicken thighs bite-sized
Pasta
  • 1 lb potato gnocchi
Aromatics
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
Sauce Base
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
Flavor Boosters
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • Salt to taste
Greens
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
Cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan-style cheese

Equipment

  • Large deep skillet or sauté pan with lid
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
  • Optional but helpful:
  • Microplane or fine grater for lemon zest

Method
 

  1. Follow these steps for a perfectly balanced one-pan lemon chicken gnocchi.
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add chicken pieces and season with salt and black pepper.
  3. Cook for 5–7 minutes, until golden and cooked through.
  4. Remove chicken and set aside.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base
  1. In the same pan, add chopped onion.
  2. Cook until soft and translucent.
  3. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Create the Lemon Sauce
  1. Pour in chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits.
  2. Add heavy cream, lemon zest, lemon juice, and thyme.
  3. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Cook the Gnocchi
  1. Add gnocchi directly to the pan.
  2. Stir gently to coat in the sauce.
  3. Cover and simmer for 3–5 minutes, until gnocchi is tender.
Step 5: Combine Everything
  1. Return chicken to the pan.
  2. Add spinach and stir until wilted.
  3. Sprinkle in Parmesan-style cheese and stir until creamy.
Step 6: Finish
  1. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  2. Let rest for 2–3 minutes before serving.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop.
Add a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended due to the cream sauce.
🥄 Variations
Make this lemon chicken gnocchi your own:
Extra Lemon
Add more zest for brighter flavor.
Vegetable Boost
Add mushrooms or zucchini.
Dairy-Light
Use half cream and half milk.
Herb Twist
Add fresh basil or parsley at the end.
Chicken Thigh Version
Use thighs for extra juiciness.
❓ 10 FAQs
Can I use store-bought gnocchi?
Yes, shelf-stable or refrigerated gnocchi works well.
Is this dish very lemony?
It’s balanced—bright but not overpowering.
Can I use chicken thighs?
Absolutely, they stay very juicy.
Do I need to boil the gnocchi first?
No, it cooks directly in the sauce.
Is this kid-friendly?
Yes, the flavors are mild and creamy.
Can I make it ahead of time?
It’s best fresh but reheats well.
What makes it one-pan?
Everything cooks in the same skillet.
Does the sauce thicken naturally?
Yes, the gnocchi releases starch.
Can I add cheese on top?
Yes, extra Parmesan works great.
Is this a full meal?
Yes, it’s hearty and satisfying on its own.
🏁 Conclusion
This One Pan Lemon Chicken Gnocchi brings together bright citrus, creamy comfort, and effortless cooking in one delicious dish. With tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a luscious lemon cream sauce, it’s a recipe that feels special yet practical—perfect for weeknights or relaxed weekends.
Once you try it, this one-pan favorite is sure to earn a permanent place in your dinner rotation.