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Lemon Chicken Gnocchi in Creamy Spinach Sauce Recipe

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4.2 from 9 reviews

This Lemon Chicken Gnocchi recipe features tender, seared chicken breast cutlets seasoned with garlic powder and lemon pepper, served in a creamy lemon-infused sauce with tender potato gnocchi and fresh baby spinach. The dish is easy to prepare in just 30 minutes, delivering a flavorful and comforting meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 2 large chicken breasts
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
  • Salt & pepper, to taste (especially if lemon pepper seasoning does not contain salt)

Sauce and Gnocchi

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
  • 1 pound uncooked potato gnocchi
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups packed fresh baby spinach

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create 4 thinner cutlets. Season both sides with garlic powder and lemon pepper seasoning. If the lemon pepper does not contain salt, sprinkle salt on the chicken as well to enhance flavor.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat for a few minutes until hot. Add the chicken cutlets and sear for 5-6 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm.
  3. Sauté Garlic: Reduce the heat to medium, add the minced garlic to the same skillet, and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  4. Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any flavorful browned bits left from the chicken.
  5. Cook Gnocchi in Cream Sauce: Add the heavy cream and uncooked gnocchi to the skillet. Stir well to submerge the gnocchi fully in the liquid. Let the mixture gently bubble uncovered for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gnocchi is tender and the sauce has thickened. The starch from the gnocchi will naturally thicken the sauce; avoid pre-cooking the gnocchi. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash more chicken broth.
  6. Finish the Dish: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese and fresh baby spinach, tossing until the spinach wilts and incorporates into the sauce. Return the cooked chicken pieces along with any accumulated juices back into the skillet. Spoon sauce over the chicken, then season with additional salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Do not pre-cook the gnocchi; it cooks directly in the sauce, releasing starch to thicken it.
  • If lemon pepper seasoning lacks salt, be sure to add salt to the chicken to balance flavors.
  • The sauce will thicken as it cools, so avoid over-thickening it during cooking by adjusting with broth if needed.
  • Using fresh baby spinach adds a nice texture and color; you may substitute with other leafy greens if desired.
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://iamstarved.com/lemon-chicken-gnocchi-in-creamy-spinach-sauce-recipe/