Chicken Parmesan Gnocchi Bake

This Chicken Parmesan Gnocchi Bake is a comforting, cheesy dish that combines pillowy gnocchi, juicy chicken, and a rich marinara sauce, all baked to perfection under a golden layer of melted cheese. It’s a hearty, crowd-pleasing meal that’s easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy One-Pan Meal – Minimal cleanup with everything baked in one dish.
  • Comforting and Satisfying – A cozy dish full of rich flavors and textures.
  • Family-Friendly – Loved by both kids and adults alike.
  • Quick and Simple – Ready in under 40 minutes.
  • Cheesy and Delicious – A perfect blend of melty cheese and savory marinara.
Chicken Parmesan Gnocchi Bake 10 This Chicken Parmesan Gnocchi Bake is a comforting, cheesy dish that combines pillowy gnocchi, juicy chicken, and a rich marinara sauce, all baked to perfection under a golden layer of melted cheese. It's a hearty, crowd-pleasing meal that's easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights.


Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Potato gnocchi
  • Cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
  • Olive oil
  • Garlic, minced
  • Marinara sauce
  • Italian seasoning
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • Mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • Parmesan cheese, grated
  • Fresh basil, for garnish
  • Salt and black pepper

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
  3. Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper.
  4. Add the cooked chicken and gnocchi, stirring to coat everything evenly in the sauce.
  5. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan over the top.
  6. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  7. Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh basil, and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 4
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

  • Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
  • Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce.
  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free gnocchi.
  • Different Protein: Substitute chicken with cooked sausage or ground turkey.

Storage/Reheating

  • Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months.
  • Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave in 30-second intervals.
Chicken Parmesan Gnocchi Bake
Chicken Parmesan Gnocchi Bake 11 This Chicken Parmesan Gnocchi Bake is a comforting, cheesy dish that combines pillowy gnocchi, juicy chicken, and a rich marinara sauce, all baked to perfection under a golden layer of melted cheese. It's a hearty, crowd-pleasing meal that's easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights.


FAQs

Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

Yes! Shelf-stable or refrigerated gnocchi both work great.

What’s the best cheese for this dish?

Mozzarella and Parmesan are classic choices, but you can also try provolone or fontina.

Do I need to cook the gnocchi before baking?

No, it cooks perfectly in the sauce while baking.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready.

What side dishes go well with this recipe?

A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs perfectly.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! It’s a great time-saver.

How can I make it extra crispy on top?

Broil for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach work well.

What type of marinara sauce should I use?

A high-quality store-bought sauce or homemade marinara works best.

Can I cook this in a baking dish instead of a skillet?

Yes, just transfer everything to a casserole dish before baking.

Conclusion

This Chicken Parmesan Gnocchi Bake is the ultimate comfort food, combining soft gnocchi, juicy chicken, and a cheesy, flavorful sauce. It’s quick, easy, and guaranteed to be a family favorite. Serve it fresh, customize it to your liking, and enjoy every bite!

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Chicken Parmesan Gnocchi Bake

Chicken Parmesan Gnocchi Bake

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  • Author: Maria B. Evans

Description

This Chicken Parmesan Gnocchi Bake is a delicious twist on the classic Italian dish. Soft, pillowy gnocchi is tossed in a rich marinara sauce with juicy chicken, then baked to perfection with a crispy, cheesy topping. It’s an easy, comforting one-pan meal the whole family will love!


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • For the Gnocchi Bake:
  • 1 lb (450g) potato gnocchi
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crispiness)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  • 1. Cook the Gnocchi
  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions (usually until they float, about 2-3 minutes).
  • Drain and set aside.
  • 2. Cook the Chicken
  • In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  • Add diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
  • Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
  • 3. Make the Sauce
  • Pour in the marinara sauce and red pepper flakes (if using).
  • Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, then let simmer for 2 minutes.
  • 4. Assemble the Bake
  • Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet, stirring to coat in the sauce.
  • Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over the top.
  • Mix panko breadcrumbs with a drizzle of olive oil, then sprinkle over the cheese.
  • 5. Bake to Perfection
  • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  • If needed, broil for the last 2 minutes for extra crispiness.
  • 6. Serve & Enjoy
  • Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese.
  • Serve hot and enjoy this comforting, cheesy dish!

Notes

  • Make it Crispy! If you like an extra crispy top, use a cast-iron skillet and broil for a few extra minutes.
  • Add More Flavor: Toss in some cooked spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers for extra veggies.
  • Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
  • Nutrition (Per Serving)
  • Calories: ~480
  • Protein: ~35g
  • Carbs: ~45g
  • Fat: ~18g
  • Sodium: ~950mg

Nutrition

  • Calories: ~480
  • Sodium: ~950mg
  • Fat: ~18g
  • Protein: ~35g

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