Creamy Baked Gnocchi with Chicken Recipe for Easy Dinners

Posted on November 20, 2025

creamy baked gnocchi with chicken - featured image

Introduction

Picture this: the aroma of creamy sauce bubbling away in the oven, tender gnocchi nestled in a velvety blanket of cheese and succulent bites of chicken. It’s the kind of meal that warms your soul and fills your home with the kind of coziness we all crave—especially on those chilly evenings when comfort food feels like the answer to everything.

The first time I whipped up this creamy baked gnocchi with chicken, it was one of those “what’s in the fridge?” kind of nights. I had some leftover rotisserie chicken, a package of store-bought gnocchi, and a random assortment of cheeses. What started as an experiment quickly turned into a family favorite. Honestly, I wish I’d discovered this combination years ago because it’s become my go-to for effortless dinners that still feel fancy.

My family loves this dish so much, it barely makes it to the dinner table before someone’s sneaking a bite. It’s the perfect recipe for those crazy weeknights, cozy gatherings, or even as part of your holiday spread. I’ve tested and tweaked it more times than I can count (all in the name of perfecting it, of course) and I’m excited to share this staple with you. Trust me—this one’s worth bookmarking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & easy: Ready in under 45 minutes, including baking time. Perfect for busy families or last-minute dinner plans.
Simple ingredients: You won’t need to hunt down anything fancy—everything is easy to find at your local grocery store.
Ultimate comfort food: Creamy, cheesy, and packed with savory flavors, this is the kind of dish that makes you feel like you’re getting a warm hug.
Versatile: Great for a casual dinner, meal prep, or even a potluck dish that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
Family-approved: Kids love the pillowy gnocchi and cheesy goodness, while adults appreciate the sophisticated flavors.

This isn’t just another baked pasta dish. What makes this recipe special is the combination of creamy sauce, juicy chicken, and the pillowy texture of gnocchi that’s baked to perfection. It’s a one-dish wonder that looks impressive, tastes divine, and is secretly so simple to make. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for something easy to whip up after work, this recipe has you covered.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This creamy baked gnocchi with chicken recipe uses straightforward, wholesome ingredients to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

Gnocchi: One (16 oz) package, store-bought or homemade—either works beautifully.
Cooked chicken: 2 cups, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works wonders).
Heavy cream: 1 cup (for that luxurious creamy texture).
Chicken broth: 1 cup (adds depth of flavor).
Garlic: 3 cloves, minced (because everything is better with garlic).
Parmesan cheese: 1 cup, grated (adds that nutty, tangy richness).
Mozzarella cheese: 1 cup, shredded (for that irresistible melty top layer).
Butter: 2 tablespoons (to sauté that garlic to perfection).
Olive oil: 2 tablespoons (for greasing the baking dish).
Fresh parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped (for garnish and a pop of color).
Salt & pepper: To taste.

If you’re missing an ingredient, don’t stress. You can swap heavy cream for half-and-half, use different cheeses like Gruyère or cheddar, or even replace the chicken with shrimp or mushrooms for a vegetarian version. This recipe is all about flexibility!

Equipment Needed

Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C).
Large skillet: For preparing the sauce.
Baking dish: A 9×13-inch dish works perfectly.
Mixing spoons: For stirring and combining ingredients.
Grater: To shred your cheese (if not using pre-shredded).

If you don’t have a large skillet, you can use a medium saucepan to make the sauce. And if you’re in need of a budget-friendly baking dish, glass or ceramic options are great and easy to clean.

Preparation Method

Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Sauté the garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until it’s aromatic and golden. Be careful not to burn it!
Make the creamy sauce: Pour the heavy cream and chicken broth into the skillet with the garlic. Stir well to combine and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
Add the Parmesan cheese: Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s fully melted and the sauce is smooth. If the sauce feels too thick, you can add a splash of extra chicken broth to thin it out.
Combine gnocchi and chicken: In a large bowl, mix the cooked gnocchi and shredded chicken. Pour the creamy sauce over the mixture and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
Assemble: Transfer the gnocchi and chicken mixture to your greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown. For an extra crispy top, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end.
Garnish and serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a burst of color and extra flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are some handy tips to make sure your Creamy Baked Gnocchi with Chicken turns out perfectly every time:

Don’t overcook the gnocchi: If you’re boiling store-bought gnocchi, cook for just 2-3 minutes or until they float to the top. Overcooking can make them mushy.
Use freshly grated cheese: Pre-shredded cheese might seem convenient, but it often has added starches that prevent it from melting smoothly. Grating your own cheese makes a huge difference.
Season to taste: The creamy sauce is customizable. Taste as you go and adjust the salt, pepper, or even add a pinch of nutmeg for a unique depth of flavor.
Layer evenly: When assembling, make sure the gnocchi and chicken are evenly coated with the sauce for consistent flavor in every bite.
Keep an eye on the broil: If you’re crisping the top, watch it closely—it can go from golden to burnt in seconds.

Variations & Adaptations

This recipe is incredibly versatile, and here are a few ways to make it your own:

Vegetarian option: Skip the chicken and substitute with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers.
Low-carb twist: Replace gnocchi with cauliflower gnocchi, zucchini noodles, or roasted cauliflower florets for a lighter option.
Seasonal spin: In the fall, add roasted butternut squash or pumpkin puree to the sauce for a cozy, autumnal vibe. In summer, try sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil for a Mediterranean flair.
Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or drizzle some hot sauce over the dish before serving for a little extra heat.
Cheese swaps: Mix it up with Gruyère, gouda, or even crumbled feta for a unique flavor profile.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This creamy baked gnocchi with chicken is best served fresh out of the oven while the cheese is hot and gooey. Pair it with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed veggies to balance out the richness.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop a portion in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

If you’d like to freeze this dish, assemble it in a freezer-safe container but skip the baking step. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as directed. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This recipe serves four and offers a hearty, satisfying meal. Here’s a quick snapshot of the nutritional benefits:

Calories: Around 450-500 per serving, depending on portion size and specific ingredients.
Protein-packed: The chicken and cheese provide a good dose of protein to keep you full and energized.
Calcium-rich: Thanks to the cheese and cream, this dish delivers a boost to your calcium intake for healthy bones.
Flexibility for dietary needs: Swap out ingredients to make it gluten-free or dairy-free.

While this dish is indulgent, it’s perfect for treating yourself and your loved ones to a cozy, satisfying meal. And hey, every once in a while, we all need a little comfort food, right?

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a recipe that checks all the boxes—comforting, delicious, and easy to make—this creamy baked gnocchi with chicken is it. It’s the kind of dish you’ll want to make again and again, tweaking it to suit your taste and sharing it with everyone you know.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and give this recipe a try! I’d love to hear how you make it your own—drop a comment below or share your tweaks. Happy cooking, friends!

FAQs

Can I use frozen gnocchi?

Yes, frozen gnocchi works perfectly! Just boil it according to the package instructions before using it in the recipe.

What’s the best way to shred chicken?

If you’re using cooked chicken breast, try using two forks to shred it. For a quicker method, use a hand mixer to shred the chicken in seconds.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the dish and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even a non-dairy alternative like coconut milk or cashew cream.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Of course! Spinach, mushrooms, peas, or broccoli are great additions to this recipe. Just sauté them before mixing them with the gnocchi and sauce.

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creamy baked gnocchi with chicken recipe