Description

This inviting dish features tender, pan-seared chicken breasts nestled among soft potato gnocchi, all coated in a vibrant, creamy lemon sauce. Fresh spinach is gently wilted into the sauce, adding a touch of color and earthy flavor. The bright acidity of lemon cuts through the richness of the cream, creating a balanced and comforting meal. Garnished with fresh lemon slices and chives, this skillet preparation offers a harmonious blend of savory and tangy notes with varied textures.

Ingredients

Scale

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs total)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon salt, divided
1/2 teaspoon black pepper, divided
1 small yellow onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
12 ounces potato gnocchi (shelf-stable or refrigerated)
5 ounces fresh spinach
2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)
Lemon slices (for garnish)

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Instructions

Pat chicken breasts dry and season with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts and sear for 5-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside on a plate.
Reduce heat to medium. Add diced onion to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring to a simmer.
Stir in heavy cream, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and Italian seasoning. Season with remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
Add the gnocchi to the simmering sauce. Cook according to package directions, usually 2-3 minutes, until they float to the surface and are tender.
Stir in the fresh spinach, cooking until just wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Heat through for 1-2 minutes.
Garnish with fresh chopped chives and lemon slices before serving.

Notes

Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.

Do not overcook the gnocchi; they are best when tender and slightly chewy.

For a thicker sauce, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes before adding gnocchi.

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese can be stirred into the sauce at the end for added richness, if desired.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes

Nutrition

Calories: 550
Fat: 25g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 45g