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The Best Homemade Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Recipe

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3.8 from 4 reviews

This creamy and zesty homemade lemon chicken gnocchi recipe features tender pan-seared chicken breasts simmered in a luscious lemon cream sauce with sautéed onions, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, served over soft gnocchi. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s a comforting yet bright dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 4 chicken breasts (thinly sliced, about 1 pound)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 Tablespoons oil (divided)
  • 1 Tablespoon butter

Sauce and Gnocchi

  • 1/2 cup onion (thinly sliced)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 2 Tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 pound gnocchi (shelf stable, packaged)
  • 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil (coarsely chopped)

Instructions

  1. Season Chicken: Evenly season the thinly sliced chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides to ensure the chicken is flavorful throughout.
  2. Sear Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of oil and the butter, melting until hot and shimmering. Place the chicken breasts in the pan and brown for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken from the pan and keep covered to stay warm.
  3. Sauté Onions and Garlic: Return skillet to medium heat and add the remaining 1 tablespoon oil. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook until softened, about a few minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook another minute until fragrant.
  4. Deglaze Pan: Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping the pan bottom to lift any browned bits which adds flavor. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  5. Cook Gnocchi in Cream Sauce: Gradually stir in the heavy cream and the gnocchi. Allow to simmer for 5-6 minutes until the gnocchi are soft and cooked through, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  6. Add Cheese and Basil: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil, combining well. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
  7. Finish Chicken: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the pan, spooning the creamy sauce over them. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165º F if pieces are thicker, cooking a bit longer if necessary.
  8. Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately. Optionally garnish with extra Parmesan cheese, fresh basil leaves, and lemon slices for a bright, fresh presentation.

Notes

  • Use thinly sliced chicken breasts to ensure quick and even cooking.
  • If using fresh gnocchi, cooking time may be shorter; adjust accordingly.
  • For extra lemon flavor, add lemon zest along with lemon juice.
  • Make sure internal chicken temperature reaches 165º F to ensure safety.
  • This dish pairs beautifully with a light green salad or steamed veggies.
  • Author: Daisy
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-American