Ingredients
Protein and Seasonings
- 4 chicken fillets, cut into slices
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp sweet paprika
Vegetables and Flavorings
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 small broccoli head, finely chopped
Starches and Liquids
- 1.1 pounds gnocchi
- 1 ¼ cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup heavy cream
Fats and Cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken fillets into slices. Season them with salt, black pepper, and sweet paprika. Set aside to let the flavors meld while you prepare the other ingredients.
- Prep the Vegetables: Mince the garlic cloves finely and chop the broccoli into very small pieces to ensure they cook quickly and evenly later.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat the olive oil and unsalted butter over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Place the chicken slices in a single layer and sear them for 3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden crust. Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a clean plate.
- Cook Aromatics and Vegetables: Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Stir in the Italian seasoning and tomato paste, mixing well to combine. Add the chopped broccoli and cook for 2 minutes to soften slightly.
- Add the Gnocchi: Add the gnocchi to the skillet and cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the gnocchi to lightly brown and absorb the flavors.
- Simmer with Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes until the gnocchi are tender and al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add Cream and Cheese: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce thickens slightly, creating a creamy consistency.
- Finish Cooking the Chicken: Return the seared chicken slices to the skillet. Simmer everything together for 1 minute or until the chicken is fully cooked through and heated.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once everything is cooked and combined, immediately serve the chicken and gnocchi hot for a delicious, hearty meal.
Notes
- For extra flavor, garnish with fresh parsley or additional Parmesan before serving.
- You can substitute broccoli with other vegetables like spinach, peas, or asparagus for variation.
- If you prefer a lighter option, use half-and-half in place of heavy cream.
- Be careful not to overcook the gnocchi to maintain their soft, pillowy texture.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American