One Pan Creamy Chicken: 30-Minute Comfort Food Delight

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One Pan Creamy Chicken is a delightful dish that combines convenience and flavor, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights. This creamy chicken and gnocchi recipe is not just quick to make; it’s also incredibly satisfying. Imagine a rich, creamy sauce enveloping tender chicken, fresh spinach, and fluffy gnocchi, all cooked in one pan for easy cleanup. In just 30 minutes, you can create a meal that your entire family will adore.

Why You’ll Love This One Pan Creamy Chicken

This One Pan Creamy Chicken is everything you need for a weeknight hero. Here are some reasons to love this meal:

It’s a simple one pan chicken dish that minimizes cleanup.
Quick to prepare, ready in about 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
It’s a healthy one pan creamy chicken recipe that features fresh ingredients.
Family-friendly, sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Versatile: easily customizable with your favorite veggies.
Rich and creamy, providing comfort in every bite.
Uses pantry staples, making it an easy creamy chicken recipe.

Ingredients for One Pan Creamy Chicken

Gather these items:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper (to taste)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
3 cups baby spinach
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 package (16 oz) gnocchi (store-bought)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil (for garnish, optional)

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

Step 1: In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
Step 2: Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Add them to the skillet and cook for about 5–7 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: In the same pan, add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for about 2–3 minutes, until they start to soften.
Step 4: Stir in the baby spinach and cook until wilted, about 1–2 minutes.
Step 5: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 6: Stir in the gnocchi and return the cooked chicken to the pan. Cook for about 5–7 minutes, or until the gnocchi are tender and cooked through, stirring occasionally.
Step 7: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Step 8: Garnish with fresh basil if desired and serve warm.

Pro Tips for the Best One Pan Creamy Chicken

Keep these in mind:

This dish is best served immediately to enjoy the creamy texture.
You can substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
For added flavor, consider using fresh herbs or a splash of lemon juice.
Ensure the skillet is hot enough to get a good sear on the chicken.

Best Ways to Serve One Pan Creamy Chicken

This one pan creamy chicken can be served over a bed of rice or pasta for a complete meal. Pair it with a fresh garden salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a healthier option, serve it with steamed vegetables or a side of roasted broccoli.

How to Store and Reheat One Pan Creamy Chicken

To store any leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dish can last for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the skillet over low heat until heated through. If the sauce thickens, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up.

Frequently Asked Questions About One Pan Creamy Chicken

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

The secret lies in not overcooking the chicken. Cook it until just golden brown and ensure all ingredients are cooked together to maintain the creamy texture.

Can I make One Pan Creamy Chicken ahead of time?

You can prepare the components ahead of time, but it’s best to cook and combine them right before serving for the best flavor and texture.

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

Avoid overcrowding the pan while cooking the chicken, as this can lead to steaming rather than searing. Also, ensure to stir the ingredients regularly for even cooking.

Variations of One Pan Creamy Chicken You Can Try

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! You can add different vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for added flavor. For a spicy kick, try adding red pepper flakes. You can also switch out the gnocchi for pasta for a different twist on this creamy chicken dinner in one pan.

For more delicious chicken recipes, check out Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta or Irresistible Butter Chicken Recipe. You can also explore Creamy Sausage Potato Chowder for a comforting meal option.

For more information on the health benefits of chicken, visit Healthline.