Name: Creamy Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken breast (cubed); 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing); 3 cups gnocchi; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved); 2 cups spinach (chopped); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; salt and pepper (to taste); 0.5 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)

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If you’re craving a comforting, rich, and flavorful dish that brings the best of Italian-inspired flavors right to your dinner table, look no further than this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Bake. It’s a one-pan wonder that combines tender cubed chicken breast, pillowy gnocchi, vibrant spinach, and juicy cherry tomatoes all smothered in a luscious creamy sauce and topped with melty mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for the week, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s simple enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for guests.

Why This Recipe Works

This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Bake hits all the right notes for a satisfying meal. The gnocchi provide a soft, chewy texture that pairs beautifully with the tender chicken cubes. The creamy sauce, made from heavy cream and chicken broth, is infused with garlic powder and Italian seasoning, giving each bite a rich and herbaceous flavor profile. Fresh spinach and cherry tomatoes add pops of color and freshness that brighten the dish and keep it balanced. The final layer of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese melts into a golden, bubbly crust that adds just the right amount of indulgence. Plus, this casserole-style bake is a hands-off recipe after preparation — just assemble and bake!

What Goes Into Creamy Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Bake

1 pound chicken breast, cubed – Tender, lean protein that soaks up the creamy sauce.
1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing the chicken to golden perfection.
3 cups gnocchi – Soft and pillowy potato pasta that is the star carbohydrate.
1 cup heavy cream – Creates the luscious, velvety sauce base.
1 cup chicken broth – Adds depth and moisture to the sauce.
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved – Adds a juicy burst of sweetness and color.
2 cups spinach, chopped – Provides a fresh, slightly earthy element.
1 teaspoon garlic powder – For savory warmth and depth.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – Blends classic Mediterranean herbs.
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Sharp, nutty flavor that enhances the sauce.
Salt and pepper to taste – Seasoning to balance flavors.
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded – Melts beautifully for a golden crust.

What’s in the Gear List

Large skillet or sauté pan – For cooking the chicken and combining ingredients.
9×13 inch baking dish – Perfect size for layering and baking the casserole.
Mixing spoon or spatula – To stir and combine ingredients smoothly.
Measuring cups and spoons – Ensures precise ingredient amounts.
Knife and cutting board – For chopping spinach and halving tomatoes.

Directions: Creamy Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Bake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your 9×13 inch baking dish and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cubed chicken breast and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Sauté until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Combine Gnocchi and Sauce

In the same skillet, add the gnocchi, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir to combine, then bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the gnocchi begin to soften and the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Add Vegetables and Cheese

Stir in the chopped spinach, halved cherry tomatoes, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts into the sauce.

Step 5: Assemble the Bake

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and gently fold everything together. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top.

Step 6: Bake and Serve

Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

This creamy, savory casserole is perfect on its own or paired with a light side salad or garlic bread. If you love dishes like this, you might enjoy trying the Creamy Basil Pesto Gnocchi With Peas for a different flavor twist or the Baked Three Cheese Chicken Penne for another cheesy, baked chicken pasta delight.

Nutrition-Minded Tweaks

Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream to reduce fat content without sacrificing too much creaminess.
Swap out regular gnocchi for whole wheat or cauliflower gnocchi for added fiber and nutrients.
Increase the spinach quantity to pack in more greens and vitamins.
Use low-fat mozzarella and Parmesan cheese to cut down on saturated fat.
Add mushrooms or bell peppers for an extra veggie boost and texture.

Troubles You Can Avoid

Overcooking the chicken: Cook until just done to prevent dry, tough chicken cubes.
Gnocchi turning mushy: Add gnocchi toward the end of cooking and avoid over-simmering in the sauce.
Sauce too thin: Let the sauce reduce slightly on the stovetop before baking to avoid watery casserole.
Uneven cheese melt: Spread mozzarella evenly and avoid piling too thickly in one spot.

How to Store & Reheat

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or until warmed through. For best texture, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore that melty cheese crust.

Ask & Learn

Can I use frozen gnocchi for this bake?

Yes! Frozen gnocchi works just as well. Just make sure to thaw them slightly or add a few extra minutes to the cooking time so they become tender and fully cooked in the sauce.

Is there a dairy-free alternative for the cream and cheese?

You can substitute canned coconut milk or cashew cream for the heavy cream, and use dairy-free cheese shreds to keep it creamy and melty without dairy. Just note the flavor will be a bit different but still delicious.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the bake in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

What can I serve alongside this dish?

This bake pairs beautifully with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or some crusty garlic bread. For additional pasta dishes with chicken, try the Baked Three Cheese Chicken Penne for more cheesy goodness.

Next Up in Your Queue

Creamy Basil Pesto Gnocchi With Peas – A fresh, herbaceous gnocchi dish perfect for pesto lovers.
Baked Three Cheese Chicken Penne – Another baked pasta favorite loaded with cheese and tender chicken.
Explore more easy dinner recipes for your weekly meal planning inspiration.

Before You Go

Don’t forget to gather your ingredients before you start and have your baking dish ready to go – this will make the assembly quick and stress-free. This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Bake is sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite with the knowledge that you’ve made a nourishing, satisfying meal that’s straightforward and delicious.

This dish embodies comfort food at its finest, merging creamy textures, fresh veggies, and tender chicken in a way that’s both indulgent and approachable. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe has got you covered with flavor and ease. Happy cooking!

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