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Looking for a tasty, easy dinner idea? My Pesto Chicken Gnocchi recipe is packed with flavor and sure to impress. You’ll love how simple it is to combine tender chicken and soft gnocchi with fresh basil pesto and veggies. This dish is not only quick to make but also perfect for any occasion. Join me as we explore how to whip up a meal that’s both delicious and satisfying!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Flavorful and Fresh: The combination of basil pesto, juicy chicken, and vibrant vegetables creates a dish that is both aromatic and delicious.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
- Comfort Food: Gnocchi adds a delightful, pillowy texture to the dish, making it a comforting meal that everyone will love.
- Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients, like using different vegetables or proteins, to suit your taste and dietary needs.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, diced
– 1 lb (450g) potato gnocchi
– 1 cup homemade or store-bought basil pesto
The main ingredients make this dish shine. Chicken breast gives the meal protein. Potato gnocchi adds a soft and chewy texture. Basil pesto brings vibrant flavors that tie it all together.
Vegetables and Seasoning
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup spinach leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
These vegetables boost the dish’s nutrition and taste. Cherry tomatoes add a sweet burst. Spinach leaves give color and vitamins. Olive oil helps cook the chicken and adds richness. Salt and pepper enhance all the flavors.
Garnishing
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor. Fresh basil leaves make the dish look appealing. They also add a fresh, herbal note that brightens each bite.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Gnocchi
Boiling the Water
Start by filling a large pot with water. Add a generous pinch of salt. Place the pot on the stove and turn the heat to high. Wait for the water to boil.
Cooking Time & Technique
Once the water is boiling, add the potato gnocchi. Cook them until they float to the top. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. When they float, they are done. Carefully drain the gnocchi and set them aside.
Sautéing the Chicken
Heating the Oil
Grab a large skillet and put it on medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the skillet. Let the oil heat up for a minute.
Cooking Instructions and Tips
Next, add the diced chicken breast to the hot oil. Season it with salt and pepper. Cook for about 6-8 minutes. Stir the chicken often until it turns golden brown and is fully cooked.
Final Assembly
Adding Vegetables and Pesto
Now it’s time to make the dish come alive. Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook them for 2-3 minutes until they soften. Then, toss in the spinach leaves. Stir until the spinach wilts, which takes about 1-2 minutes.
Tossing and Serving the Dish
Lower the heat. Add the cooked gnocchi and basil pesto to the skillet. Gently toss everything together. Make sure it’s well mixed and heated through. This should take another 2-3 minutes. Serve the pesto chicken gnocchi in shallow bowls. Top each bowl with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves. Enjoy your flavorful meal!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Gnocchi
Cooking Times
To cook gnocchi right, follow the package instructions. Usually, they need only 2-3 minutes. Watch closely! They float to the top when done. This shows they’re ready to drain.
Texture Tips
You want your gnocchi soft but not mushy. If they are overcooked, they lose that nice bite. Try not to crowd the pot; cook in batches if needed for the best texture.
Cooking the Chicken
Avoiding Overcooking
When cooking chicken, keep an eye on the time. It should take only 6-8 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check the inside. It should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe eating.
Flavor Enhancements
To boost flavor, season the chicken well. Add salt and pepper before cooking. You can also try adding garlic or lemon juice for a more robust taste. These extra touches make a big difference.
Serving Suggestions
Presentation Tips
For a beautiful plate, use a shallow bowl. Drizzle some pesto on top for color. A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts adds a nice crunch and looks great.
Complementary Side Dishes
Pair this dish with a light salad or steamed veggies. A simple arugula salad with lemon dressing works well. It brightens the meal and adds freshness.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh basil and ripe cherry tomatoes for an enhanced flavor profile in your dish.
- Cook Gnocchi Perfectly: To ensure gnocchi is perfectly cooked, only boil them until they float; overcooking can make them mushy.
- Add Protein Variations: For a twist, consider substituting the chicken with shrimp or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
- Customize Your Pesto: Feel free to experiment with different nuts in your pesto, such as walnuts or cashews, for a unique flavor.

Variations
Ingredient Swaps
Alternative Proteins
You can swap chicken for shrimp or tofu. Shrimp cooks fast and adds a nice touch. Tofu gives a great texture and absorbs flavor well.
Vegetable Additions
Try adding bell peppers or zucchini for extra color and crunch. Broccoli or peas also work well. These veggies add nutrients and make the dish more vibrant.
Pesto Options
Homemade vs. Store-Bought
Making your own pesto is simple and fresh. You can control the flavor and make it just right. Store-bought pesto is quick and still tasty, perfect for busy nights.
Flavor Variants
Experiment with different herbs like arugula or cilantro. You can also add nuts like walnuts instead of pine nuts. This gives your pesto a unique twist.
Dietary Modifications
Gluten-Free Gnocchi
Look for gluten-free gnocchi made from rice or corn. They taste great and fit into gluten-free diets. Always check the label to ensure it meets your needs.
Vegan Adaptations
For a vegan option, use a plant-based protein like chickpeas. Replace the cheese with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy. This makes the dish tasty and vegan-friendly.
Storage Info
Leftovers Storage
To keep your pesto chicken gnocchi fresh, store it in an airtight container. Place it in the fridge within two hours of cooking. This helps to avoid bacteria growth. The gnocchi will stay good for about three to four days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the dish. Use a freezer-safe container or bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. The gnocchi can last up to three months in the freezer.
Reheating Guidelines
When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is easy. The best method is using the stove. Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil, and toss in the gnocchi. Stir often until heated through.
You can also microwave it. Place the gnocchi in a microwave-safe dish. Add a splash of water and cover with a lid. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until warm. This keeps the flavors and texture nice.
Shelf Life
In the fridge, pesto chicken gnocchi lasts about three to four days. After that, it’s best to discard it. Always check for signs of spoilage. If it smells off or has a strange color, do not eat it.
Signs of spoilage include mold or an unusual texture. If you see any of these, toss it out. It’s better to be safe than sorry, especially with leftovers.
FAQs
What is Gnocchi Made Of?
Gnocchi is a soft pasta made mainly from potatoes. Here’s a quick breakdown of what you need:
– 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, diced
– 1 lb (450g) potato gnocchi
– 1 cup homemade or store-bought basil pesto
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup spinach leaves
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
You can see gnocchi has simple and fresh ingredients. The potatoes give it a nice, fluffy texture. The pesto adds a burst of flavor.
Can I Use Other Types of Pesto?
Yes, you can! Pesto comes in many flavors. Here are some ideas:
– Sun-dried tomato pesto for a rich taste.
– Spinach pesto for a milder, green flavor.
– Arugula pesto for a peppery kick.
Using different pestos can change the dish. Try what you like best. Just make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
How Do I Know When Gnocchi is Done?
Cooking gnocchi is easy. Here’s how you know when it’s done:
– Boil the gnocchi in salted water.
– They are ready when they float to the top.
This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Be sure to taste a piece to check the texture. It should be soft but not mushy. This simple method ensures perfect gnocchi every time.
This blog post covers a tasty dish with chicken, gnocchi, and pesto. We explored key ingredients, cooking steps, and ways to enhance your meal. Remember to keep an eye on the gnocchi for that perfect texture. You can also swap ingredients or modify the dish to fit your diet. Store leftovers properly to enjoy them later. With these tips, you’ll create a flavorful meal everyone will love. Enjoy cooking and experimenting with your dis
Pesto Chicken Gnocchi Delight
A delicious dish featuring chicken, gnocchi, and basil pesto, perfect for a quick meal.
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 15 minutes mins
Total Time 25 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4
Calories 450 kcal
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 lb potato gnocchi
- 1 cup basil pesto
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup spinach leaves
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- to taste salt and pepper
- for garnish fresh basil leaves
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions until they float to the top. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breast. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until they start to soften. Add the spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
Lower the heat and add the cooked gnocchi and basil pesto to the skillet. Toss everything together gently until well combined and heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
Plate the pesto chicken gnocchi onto serving dishes. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil leaves for an aromatic touch.
Serve in a shallow bowl, drizzle additional pesto on top for a pop of color, and add a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for extra texture.
Keyword chicken, gnocchi, pesto, quick meal
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