Pesto Chicken Gnocchi Bake – Easy Comfort Meal

This Pesto Chicken Gnocchi Bake is a creamy, satisfying dish perfect for weeknights. Enjoy the rich flavors and easy prep that make mealtime simple.

Pesto Chicken Gnocchi Bake

If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious meal that’s easy to prepare, this Pesto Chicken Gnocchi Bake is a perfect choice. Bursting with creamy pesto flavor, tender chicken, and pillowy gnocchi, it’s a satisfying dinner that your whole family will love. The recipe combines simple ingredients for a quick assembly and baking time, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love It

This dish offers a flavorful twist on traditional casseroles. The pesto adds fresh herbal notes that complement the creamy sauce and chicken perfectly. Plus, gnocchi cooks quickly and soaks up the sauce beautifully, creating a harmony of textures in every bite. It’s a great way to bring variety to your easy weeknight dinners lineup without sacrificing comfort.

Ingredients

• 1 lb cooked and shredded chicken breast – rotisserie or grilled chicken works well.
• 16 oz potato gnocchi – fresh or frozen.
• 1 cup prepared pesto sauce – homemade or store-bought.
• 1 cup heavy cream – for richness.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – adds gooey texture.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – for depth of flavor.
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved – adds sweetness and color.
• 2 cups fresh spinach – lightly wilted into the bake.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – boosts aroma and taste.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a medium baking dish.
2. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the potato gnocchi according to the package directions. Drain well.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine pesto sauce, heavy cream, and minced garlic.
4. Add the shredded chicken, fresh spinach, cherry tomatoes, and cooked gnocchi to the bowl. Stir well to coat all ingredients with the creamy pesto sauce.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
6. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
7. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and golden brown on top.
8. Remove from oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

This Pesto Chicken Gnocchi Bake is now ready to enjoy – creamy, cheesy, and perfectly satisfying!

Expert Tips

To keep the chicken juicy, use cooked chicken with some moisture like rotisserie or poached. Avoid overcooking the gnocchi; it should be tender but hold its shape. If you prefer a lighter sauce, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream. You can prepare this bake a day ahead and refrigerate, then bake just before serving. For larger gatherings, double the recipe and use a larger baking dish.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven or microwave.

Variations

For a gluten-free version, substitute gnocchi with gluten-free gnocchi or use spiralized zucchini noodles (zoodles). To make it dairy-free, try using coconut cream instead of heavy cream and vegan cheese alternatives. For a vegan twist, replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas, and use vegan pesto.

FAQ

Can I make Pesto Chicken Gnocchi Bake ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the bake, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it perfect for meal prep.

What kind of pesto is best for this recipe?

Classic basil pesto works best, but you can experiment with sun-dried tomato or kale pesto for different flavor profiles.

Can I use frozen chicken for this bake?

It’s best to use cooked and thawed chicken to ensure even cooking and texture. Avoid frozen raw chicken directly in the bake.

How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes, or microwave in short increments.

Is this recipe suitable for kids?

Absolutely! The creamy pesto flavor and cheesy topping are usually crowd-pleasers for kids and adults alike.

Call to Action

If you’ve tried this Pesto Chicken Gnocchi Bake, please leave a comment below and rate the recipe. Don’t forget to save it for your next dinner and share it with friends who love comforting, easy meals. For more delicious recipes, explore our chicken dishes and enjoy creative ideas for every night!

For trusted recipe inspiration, visit Food Network and check out our Easy Weeknight Dinners.