MARRY ME CHICKEN GNOCCHI BEST

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Author: Clara Garcia
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Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi featured image showcases a creamy tomato sauce coating pan-seared chicken and soft gnocchi.

I remember the first time I made gnocchi from scratch; it was a hilarious, flour-covered disaster, but the feeling of accomplishment (and the taste!) was worth every second, which is why I love shortcuts these days!. Now, transforming that comforting experience into a rich and decadent Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi is a match made in heaven, and is so fast to put together! Prepare to create a dish so delicious, it might just lead to a proposal (or at least a very happy tummy!).

Why You’ll Fall Head Over Heels for This Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi Recipe

Okay, let’s be real, the original “Marry Me Chicken” has gained its legendary status for a reason: it’s incredibly delicious and surprisingly easy to make. But what happens when you take that creamy, sun-dried tomato goodness and pair it with soft, pillowy gnocchi? Magic, my friend, pure magic. This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Dinner is a similar one-pan wonder if you are short on time!

Here’s why this Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi recipe is about to become your new go-to:

  • Unbelievably Flavorful: The sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, herbs, and parmesan cheese create a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
  • Comfort Food at Its Finest: Creamy, cheesy, and packed with chicken and gnocchi – what’s not to love? It’s the ultimate comfort food hug in a bowl.
  • Surprisingly Easy: Don’t let the fancy name fool you. This recipe is weeknight-friendly and comes together in under an hour.
  • Impress Your Guests: Whether you’re cooking for a special someone or hosting a dinner party, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
  • Versatile: Easily customizable with different vegetables, cheeses, or spices to suit your preferences.

What You’ll Need: The Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi Ingredient List

Close-up view of creamy Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi, showcasing the rich sauce and tender chicken pieces.

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to create this masterpiece:

  • Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal. About 1.5 – 2 pounds.
  • Gnocchi: Store-bought gnocchi is perfectly fine. I personally prefer the potato gnocchi, but you can use cauliflower gnocchi for a lighter option.
  • Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, drained. These are crucial for that signature “Marry Me” flavor.
  • Heavy Cream: The key to a rich and decadent sauce.
  • Chicken Broth: Adds depth of flavor to the sauce.
  • Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is always best.
  • Onion: Diced yellow or white onion.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan cheese for the sauce and garnish.
  • Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried herbs like oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: For a touch of heat (optional).
  • Fresh Basil: Chopped fresh basil for garnish.
  • Olive Oil: For sautéing.
  • Salt and Pepper: To taste.

Let’s Get Cooking: Step-by-Step Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi Instructions

Alright, let’s get down to business. Here’s how to make this incredible Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi:

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

First, pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them brown better. Season them generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. An internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is ideal. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest. Tent loosely with foil. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender chicken.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Reduce the heat to medium. Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Add the sun-dried tomatoes (drained!), chicken broth, and heavy cream to the skillet. Stir well to combine. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir in the parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remember, the parmesan cheese is already salty, so start with a small amount of salt and add more as needed. This sauce is very similar to what you’ll find in Creamy Tomato Chicken Pasta.

Step 5: Add the Gnocchi

Add the gnocchi to the skillet and stir to coat it with the sauce. Cook according to the package directions, usually about 3-5 minutes, or until the gnocchi is tender and floats to the surface. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or heavy cream to thin it out.

Step 6: Slice the Chicken and Combine

While the gnocchi is cooking, slice the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Add the chicken to the skillet and stir to combine. Heat through for another minute or two.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with freshly chopped basil and extra parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and prepare to be amazed!

Tips and Tricks for Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi Perfection

Want to take your Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi to the next level? Here are a few tips and tricks:

  • Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Overcooked chicken is dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked to 165°F (74°C).
  • Use High-Quality Sun-Dried Tomatoes: The quality of your sun-dried tomatoes will impact the flavor of the dish. Look for sun-dried tomatoes that are plump and have a rich, intense flavor.
  • Don’t Skimp on the Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor that is essential to the dish. Use freshly grated parmesan cheese for the best results.
  • Add Vegetables: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the sauce. Sauté them along with the onions and garlic.
  • Make it Spicy: If you like a little heat, add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
  • Use Different Types of Gnocchi: Experiment with different types of gnocchi, such as sweet potato gnocchi or spinach gnocchi.
  • Make it Ahead: You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook the gnocchi and add the chicken and sauce.
  • Freeze it: This dish freezes well. Allow to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Consider making Ground Beef Gnocchi if you want to freeze the dish.

Variations to Make it Your Own!

The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. Here are some variations to inspire you:

  • Marry Me Shrimp Gnocchi: Substitute the chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist.
  • Marry Me Sausage Gnocchi: Use Italian sausage instead of chicken. Brown the sausage in the skillet before adding the onions and garlic.
  • Vegetarian Marry Me Gnocchi: Omit the chicken and add more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers.
  • Creamy Pesto Marry Me Gnocchi: Stir in a spoonful of pesto to the sauce for a burst of fresh flavor.
  • Marry Me Chicken Pasta: For a similar dish with pasta, check out Marry Me Chicken Pasta! Or, try this sauce with Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta.

Serving Suggestions: Complete the Meal

This Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi is a complete meal in itself, but here are some serving suggestions to round out the experience:

  • Side Salad: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing is a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.
  • Garlic Bread: For soaking up that delicious sauce.
  • Roasted Vegetables: Asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts are great choices.
  • Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs well with this dish.

Troubleshooting: Common Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi Problems and Solutions

Even the best cooks encounter hiccups in the kitchen. Here are some common problems and their solutions:

  • Sauce is Too Thick: Add a splash of chicken broth or heavy cream to thin it out.
  • Sauce is Too Thin: Simmer the sauce for a few more minutes to allow it to thicken. You can also add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) to the sauce and simmer until thickened.
  • Gnocchi is Sticky: Make sure you’re using enough water when cooking the gnocchi. Also, avoid overcrowding the pot, as this can cause the gnocchi to stick together.
  • Chicken is Dry: Don’t overcook the chicken! Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked to the correct temperature. Also, letting the chicken rest after cooking helps to retain moisture.

Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi Recipe

Ready to make some magic in the kitchen? Here’s the complete recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 1.5 – 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 lb gnocchi
  • 1 cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 onion, diced
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
  • 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil, for garnish
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Pat the chicken breasts dry and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside to rest.
  3. Reduce heat to medium. Add onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
  4. Add sun-dried tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream to the skillet. Stir well to combine. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir in parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Add gnocchi to the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce. Cook according to package directions, about 3-5 minutes, or until tender and floats to the surface.
  6. Slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Add the chicken to the skillet and stir to combine. Heat through for 1-2 minutes.
  7. Garnish with fresh basil and extra parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.

Final Thoughts: Enjoy Your Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi!

There you have it! A recipe that’s sure to impress and satisfy. This Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s a celebration of flavor, comfort, and the joy of sharing good food with loved ones. So, gather your ingredients, put on some music, and get ready to create a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. And who knows, maybe it *will* lead to a proposal! Happy cooking!

What makes this Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi recipe so special?

This recipe combines the creamy, sun-dried tomato flavors of the original ‘Marry Me Chicken’ with soft, pillowy gnocchi, creating a comforting, flavorful, and surprisingly easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for weeknights or impressing guests.

Can I use a different type of gnocchi for this recipe?

Yes, while potato gnocchi is preferred, you can use cauliflower gnocchi for a lighter option or experiment with other types like sweet potato or spinach gnocchi.

How can I store leftovers or make this dish ahead of time?

You can store the sauce in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Cook the gnocchi and add the chicken and sauce when ready to serve. The dish also freezes well for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely, transfer to an airtight container, and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What are some variations I can try with this recipe?

You can substitute the chicken with shrimp or Italian sausage. For a vegetarian option, omit the chicken and add more vegetables. You can also add pesto or make it with pasta instead of gnocchi.

Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi featured image showcases a creamy tomato sauce coating pan-seared chicken and soft gnocchi.

Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi

This Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi recipe combines the flavors of the popular “Marry Me Chicken” with soft, pillowy gnocchi. It’s a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful dish that’s surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-American
Calories: 700

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 – 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 lb gnocchi
  • 1 cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 onion, diced
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
  • 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil, for garnish
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • knife
  • cutting board
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • Meat thermometer
  • paper towels
  • Spatula or spoon

Method
 

  1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside to rest.
  3. Reduce heat to medium. Add onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
  4. Add sun-dried tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream to the skillet. Stir well to combine. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir in parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Add gnocchi to the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce. Cook according to package directions, about 3-5 minutes, or until tender and floats to the surface. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or heavy cream to thin it out.
  6. Slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Add the chicken to the skillet and stir to combine. Heat through for 1-2 minutes.
  7. Garnish with fresh basil and extra parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.

Notes

Don’t overcook the chicken, use high-quality sun-dried tomatoes, and don’t skimp on the parmesan cheese. Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the sauce. For a spicier dish, add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, or freeze the dish for up to 3 months.
Clara Garcia

Clara Garcia, the creator behind VariedRecipes.net, focuses on delivering easy, budget-friendly, and mouthwatering recipes for everyday cooking

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