Craving a comforting, flavorful meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This Tuscan Chicken and Gnocchi recipe is a delicious and easy weeknight dinner that’s packed with fresh herbs and savory goodness. It's the perfect blend of healthy and hearty, making it a favorite in our kitchen and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Forget complicated cooking techniques; this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and even beginner cooks. Get ready to elevate your easy recipes repertoire!
Ingredients: What You'll Need
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it a breeze to prepare. You probably already have most of these staples in your pantry!
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 pound gnocchi (potato gnocchi recommended)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide
This easy-to-follow guide will have you enjoying a delicious homemade meal in no time!
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base: Add onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce: Stir in diced tomatoes (undrained), chicken broth, heavy cream, basil, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low.
Step 4: Add Chicken and Gnocchi: Return chicken to the skillet. Add gnocchi and cook until heated through and the sauce has slightly thickened, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Make sure the gnocchi doesn't break apart; gentle stirring is key.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. This delicious dish pairs perfectly with a simple side salad or crusty bread.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Results
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When browning the chicken, ensure it's not overcrowded. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh basil and parsley significantly enhance the flavor of this dish.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. You might prefer more or less salt, pepper, or herbs depending on your preference.
- Gnocchi variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of gnocchi, such as spinach or ricotta gnocchi.
Delicious Variations to Explore
- Spicy Tuscan Chicken and Gnocchi: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Vegetable Tuscan Chicken and Gnocchi: Add sauteed vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Creamy sun-dried tomato variation: Substitute sun-dried tomatoes for the fresh tomatoes and add some extra basil for a more intense flavour profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This quick and easy Tuscan Chicken and Gnocchi recipe is a perfect example of how delicious and healthy meals can be made with minimal effort. It’s a fantastic addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals, perfect for busy weeknights or a satisfying weekend lunch. Enjoy!