One-Pot Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Delight Recipe

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This One-Pot Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Delight is the kind of dish that earns a permanent spot in your weeknight dinner rotation. It’s creamy, zesty, and completely comforting—everything you want in a single skillet. Plump gnocchi soak up a velvety lemon garlic sauce, while tender chicken bites give the dish its satisfying protein boost. Bright pops of lemon and fresh parsley elevate each forkful with bold, fresh flavors.

Best of all? It all comes together in one pot for minimal cleanup. Whether you’re cooking for family or a cozy night in, this recipe is quick, fuss-free, and deeply flavorful. With just a few pantry ingredients and a lemon or two, you’ll have a restaurant-worthy meal ready in under 30 minutes.

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Ingredients for this One-Pot Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Delight

• 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Juice of 1 large lemon
• 1 lb (450g) potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon slices, for serving

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Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Season the chicken breast pieces with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

In the same pot, lower the heat to medium and melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and lemon zest. Sauté for 1–2 minutes, until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to deglaze the pan. Let it simmer for a minute before adding the heavy cream and lemon juice. Stir to combine and let the sauce bubble gently for 3–4 minutes to slightly thicken.

Step 4: Cook the Gnocchi

Add the gnocchi directly into the sauce. Stir gently to coat them well. Cover and cook for 5–7 minutes, or until the gnocchi are tender and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Return the cooked chicken to the pot along with Parmesan cheese. Stir to combine and heat through for 2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top with fresh parsley and lemon slices for a bright, inviting finish. Serve warm straight from the pot.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

Yes, shelf-stable or refrigerated store-bought gnocchi works perfectly for this recipe and saves time. Just make sure they are fresh and not frozen.

Can I substitute the heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version, though the sauce may be slightly thinner.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Only if your gnocchi is labeled gluten-free. Most traditional gnocchi contains wheat, so check the packaging.

What can I use instead of chicken breast?

Boneless chicken thighs are a great alternative. You could also try shrimp or even tofu for a different protein option.

How do I make it vegetarian?

Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth. Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra substance.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Peas, spinach, or broccoli florets work well. Add them during the gnocchi cooking step so they steam in the sauce.

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