Name: One Pan Creamy Chicken: 5 Comforting Recipes to Try
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 package (about 16 oz) store-bought gnocchi; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 medium onion, diced; 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half; 1 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cups fresh spinach or kale; 2 tbsp fresh herbs (thyme or parsley), chopped; 2 tbsp olive oil or cooking oil; Salt and pepper, to taste

One Pan Creamy Chicken is the ultimate comfort meal that I turn to when I want something hearty and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. This dish brings together tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and a luscious creamy sauce, all cooked conveniently in one skillet. It’s a wonderful choice for weeknight dinners, providing both flavor and ease, making it perfect for busy nights when you crave something delicious yet simple.

Why You’ll Love This One Pan Creamy Chicken

This One Pan Creamy Chicken recipe is not just a meal; it’s a solution to your weeknight cooking dilemmas. Here’s why you’ll adore it:

It’s a quick creamy chicken meal that takes only 30 minutes to prepare.
Cooking everything in one pot means less cleanup and more time to relax.
Perfect for those nights when you want a creamy chicken dinner in one pan.
This dish is versatile—try it with different vegetables or pasta!
It’s an easy creamy chicken recipe everyone in the family will enjoy.
Great for meal prepping, making it an efficient choice for busy schedules.
With fresh spinach or kale, it’s a healthy, low-calorie option.
What’s better than a one skillet creamy chicken with mushrooms? This dish can be adapted for all tastes!

Ingredients for One Pan Creamy Chicken

Gather these items:

1 lb chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 package (about 16 oz) store-bought gnocchi
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium onion, diced
1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups fresh spinach or kale
2 tbsp fresh herbs (thyme or parsley), chopped
2 tbsp olive oil or cooking oil
Salt and pepper, to taste

How to Make One Pan Creamy Chicken Step-by-Step

Step 1: Trim and cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic and dice the onions. Keep the gnocchi ready and measure out the liquids and Parmesan to streamline the cooking process.
Step 2: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook until golden on all sides but not fully cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 3: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and translucent, forming a flavorful base for the sauce.
Step 4: Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer gently to reduce slightly. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
Step 5: Return the seared chicken to the pan and add the gnocchi directly into the sauce. Cover and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the gnocchi are tender and the chicken is fully cooked through.
Step 6: Stir in fresh spinach or kale and cook until wilted. Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs on top, give a final stir, and your dish is ready to serve.

One Pan Creamy Chicken: 5 Comforting Recipes to Try - One Pan Creamy Chicken - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Best One Pan Creamy Chicken

Keep these in mind:

Don’t overcook the chicken in the first step; it will finish cooking in the sauce.
Feel free to substitute the gnocchi with pasta for a one pot creamy chicken pasta variation.
If you want extra flavor, add a splash of white wine to the sauce.
Use fresh herbs for a brighter taste; they make a significant difference!

Best Ways to Serve One Pan Creamy Chicken

Here are a few serving suggestions:

Pair it with a simple side salad for a refreshing contrast.
Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious creamy sauce.
For a heartier meal, add roasted vegetables on the side.

How to Store and Reheat One Pan Creamy Chicken

If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to maintain the creamy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions About One Pan Creamy Chicken

What’s the secret to perfect One Pan Creamy Chicken?

The key to a perfect one pan chicken with creamy sauce is not to overcook the chicken initially. Let it finish cooking in the sauce for moist, tender pieces.

Can I make One Pan Creamy Chicken ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare everything in advance and store it separately. Just combine and cook when you’re ready for a quick meal.

How do I avoid common mistakes with One Pan Creamy Chicken?

Common mistakes include overcooking the chicken and not allowing the sauce to simmer enough. Follow the steps carefully for the best results!

Variations of One Pan Creamy Chicken You Can Try

There are many ways to enjoy this dish:

Replace gnocchi with quinoa or rice for a one pot creamy chicken and rice version.
Add seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added nutrition.
For a different flavor profile, try a one pan creamy garlic chicken by increasing the garlic.
Experiment with various herbs to find your favorite combination!

One Pan Creamy Chicken: 5 Comforting Recipes to Try - One Pan Creamy Chicken - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out our meal prep ideas and easy weeknight dinners. You can also learn about healthy cooking tips to make your meals even better!

For more information on the benefits of using fresh herbs, you can visit Healthline.