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
- Season Chicken: Evenly season the thinly sliced chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides to ensure the chicken is flavorful throughout.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American