Easy Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Bake: Comforting Recipe!

Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Bake: A Busy Mom’s Sanity Saver

Hey there, fellow busy moms! Ever feel like you’re juggling a million things while trying to put a nourishing meal on the table? I totally get it! That’s why I’m so excited to share one of my family’s favorite dinnertime nutrition wins: Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Bake. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a sanity-saving solution for those nights when you need something quick, comforting, and packed with goodness.

I remember the first time I made this Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Bake – my youngest was going through a super picky phase, and I was desperate to find something he’d actually eat. The creamy, cheesy sauce and the soft gnocchi were a hit! What surprised me most was how easily I could sneak in extra veggies and everyone loved it.

This Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Bake is more than food; it’s about creating moments of connection around the dinner table. It’s about nourishing our families without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s about finding joy in the simple act of feeding those we love.

For me, creating this Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Bake and sharing it with you is part of my own wellness journey, seeking simplicity in nutrition. It’s been a game-changer for our family, and I’m so excited to share all my tips and tricks with you. If you’re a busy mom looking for easy, delicious ways to nourish your family, you’re in the right place. Let’s get cooking!

INGREDIENTS You’ll Need:

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious and nutritious Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Bake. Don’t worry, the ingredient list is simple and straightforward because, trust me, busy moms need nutrition without complexity!

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces: A great source of lean protein, crucial for growing kids and keeping us moms energized!
• 1 tbsp olive oil: Healthy fats are essential for brain function and overall wellness.
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped: Adds flavor and a boost of antioxidants. You can find these wholesome ingredients at your regular grocery store.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Because everything’s better with garlic, right? Plus, it’s great for immunity.
• 1 (10 oz) package gnocchi: Those pillowy potato dumplings add a fun texture that kids love!
• 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained: Adds a little kick and a dose of Vitamin C!
• 1 cup heavy cream: For that signature creamy Tuscan sauce.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, savory flavor that’s irresistible.
• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped: These add a burst of intense flavor.
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped: Sneaking in those greens! Spinach is packed with vitamins and minerals. My family gets extra nutrition when I add this.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients.
• 1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds a touch of spice.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: For that melty, cheesy topping that makes this Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Bake so comforting.

This Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Bake proves nutritious doesn’t mean expensive! I often buy chicken in bulk when it’s on sale and freeze it in portions. It’s a sanity-saving nutrition hack that changed our family’s health.

No worries if you don’t have heavy cream – I often use half-and-half with a tablespoon of butter for a similar richness in my Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Bake. Feel free to adjust the amounts to your family’s liking. The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility!

Let’s Make it Happen!

Alright, let’s get to the fun part – making this amazing Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Bake! Don’t worry, I’ve broken it down into simple steps so you can easily follow along, even with a toddler hanging on your leg.

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Bake cooks evenly and the cheese gets nice and melty.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. We’re building flavor from the ground up! I love using my cast iron skillet for this, but any oven-safe skillet will do.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through. Make sure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Safety first!
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. We’ll add it back in later to keep it nice and tender.
5. Add the onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. This adds a lovely sweetness to the base of the sauce.
6. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Ah, that aroma! Your Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Bake should smell nourishing by now.
7. Stir in the gnocchi, diced tomatoes, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, salt, and pepper. Give it all a good stir to combine.
8. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the gnocchi are tender. In my busy kitchen, this nutritious Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Bake usually takes closer to 7 minutes, but it depends on your stovetop.
9. Stir in the cooked chicken. Make sure it’s evenly distributed throughout the sauce.
10. Top with mozzarella cheese. Don’t be shy! The more cheese, the better.
11. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Perfect time to prep tomorrow’s lunch!
12. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will prevent anyone from burning their tongue (including you!).

Here’s where I used to struggle with my Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Bake – I’d often overcook the gnocchi. Learn from my experience! Make sure to check them frequently while they’re simmering to avoid mushy gnocchi. Also, while your Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Bake is cooking, take a moment to appreciate nourishing your family! It’s a small act with a big impact.

Don’t worry if your Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Bake looks a little soupy before you bake it. The gnocchi will absorb some of the liquid as it bakes, and the cheese will help thicken it up. For more great recipes and dinner ideas, check out Creamy Tuscan Chicken with Gnocchi – Everyday Delicious.

How We Love to Eat This!

Now for the best part – serving this delicious Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Bake! My family absolutely devours this, and I love how versatile it is. Here are some of our favorite ways to enjoy it.

The kids devour this nutritious Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Bake when I serve it with a simple side salad. I usually toss together some mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette. It’s a great way to add some extra nutrients to the meal. This easy Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Bake is perfect for those busy weeknights when we need good nutrition fast!

We also love to serve this Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Bake with some crusty bread for dipping into that amazing sauce. Who can resist a little bread and cheese? I’ve even been known to throw in some roasted broccoli or asparagus on the side for an extra dose of veggies.

This recipe is also fantastic for potlucks or casual get-togethers. It’s always a crowd-pleaser, and it’s easy to transport in a casserole dish. Plus, it reheats beautifully, making it perfect for leftovers.

Presentation-wise, I like to sprinkle a little extra Parmesan cheese and some fresh basil on top before serving. It adds a pop of color and makes it look extra fancy (even though it’s super easy to make!).

If you have any leftover Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Bake (which is rare in my house!), it’s great for lunch the next day. I often pack it in a thermos for the kids or enjoy it myself with a side of fruit. For more simple nutrition ideas for busy families, check out my recipe for turmeric-chicken-soup.

I’ve also experimented with different seasonal variations of this dish. In the fall, I add some roasted butternut squash or pumpkin for a cozy, comforting twist. In the spring, I might add some peas or asparagus for a lighter, fresher flavor. The possibilities are endless! My friend Julie shared her tips and tricks here Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Recipe | The Kitchn.

FAQs: Your Questions Answered

I know you probably have some questions about this Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Bake, so I’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions to help you out. Let’s tackle those nutrition concerns together!

Is this Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Bake really nutritious enough for growing kids?

Absolutely! This dish is packed with protein from the chicken, vitamins and minerals from the spinach and tomatoes, and healthy fats from the olive oil and Parmesan cheese. Plus, you can easily add more veggies to boost the nutritional value even further.

What if my picky eater won’t try this healthy Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Bake?

Ah, the age-old picky eater dilemma! I feel you. One trick is to let them help you make it. Kids are often more willing to try something they’ve helped prepare. You can also start with a small portion and offer it alongside something they already like.

Can I meal prep this Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Bake for busy weeks ahead?

Yes, you can! This dish is perfect for meal prepping. Simply assemble the Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Bake in a baking dish, cover it tightly with foil, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake it, just pop it in the oven and bake as directed.

Can I freeze this Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Bake?

While you can freeze this dish, the texture of the gnocchi might change slightly. If you do freeze it, I recommend thawing it completely before baking. Also, be sure to use an air-tight container.

Can I make this Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Bake vegetarian?

Definitely! Simply omit the chicken and add some extra veggies, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers. You could also add some white beans or chickpeas for added protein.

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of gnocchi?

Sure! If you don’t have gnocchi on hand, you can use another type of pasta, such as penne, rotini, or farfalle. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly. You can see another variation of the recipe here: Creamy Tuscan Chicken and Gnocchi (30 Minutes, ONE-PAN …)

How can I make this Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Bake healthier?

There are several ways to make this dish even healthier. You can use whole wheat gnocchi, reduce the amount of heavy cream, and add more veggies. You can also use a lower-fat mozzarella cheese.

Final Thoughts:

I truly believe this Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Bake is a dinnertime game-changer for busy families. It’s quick, easy, delicious, and packed with nutrients. What more could you ask for? It supports our family’s nutrition goals by providing a balanced meal that everyone enjoys.

My Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Bake Nutrition Hacks:

• Sneak in extra veggies: Don’t be afraid to add more spinach, mushrooms, or other vegetables to boost the nutritional value.
• Use whole wheat gnocchi: This adds extra fiber to the dish, which is great for digestion.
• Reduce the amount of heavy cream: You can substitute some of the heavy cream with milk or broth to cut down on the fat content.

Here are a few family-tested healthy Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Bake variations we love. My oldest prefers it with a little extra spice, so I add a pinch of red pepper flakes. My youngest loves it with extra cheese (of course!). And I like to add a squeeze of lemon juice at the end for a touch of brightness. Don’t forget to try my no-bake-halloween-cheesecake recipe too!

I encourage you to make this recipe your own and adjust it to your family’s preferences. The most important thing is to create a meal that you and your loved ones will enjoy. I hope this Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Bake helps you create many happy and healthy dinnertime memories. You might also like my chicken-pot-pie-soup recipe!

Give this nourishing recipe for Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Bake a try and let me know what you think! I’m always here to support you on your simple nutrition journey. Happy cooking!

 
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Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Bake

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This Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Bake is a comforting and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce. It’s a quick and easy weeknight meal that the whole family will love.

• Author: Juliette
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baked
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 (17.6 ounce) package potato gnocchi
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped
• 1 (10 ounce) can cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss chicken with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. While the chicken cooks, cook gnocchi according to package directions. Drain well.
5. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
6. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, cream of mushroom soup, and milk. Bring to a simmer.
7. Add cooked chicken and gnocchi to the sauce. Stir to combine.
8. Pour mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
9. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
10. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and cheese is melted and lightly browned.
11. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Notes

Serve with a side salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.