Tuscan Chicken Meatballs & Gnocchi
If you’re craving something comforting, flavorful, and easy to make, this Tuscan Chicken Meatballs & Gnocchi recipe will hit the spot. It brings together juicy chicken meatballs, soft pillowy gnocchi, and a rich, creamy Tuscan-style sauce packed with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, garlic, and parmesan. Every bite is warm, savory, and satisfying—perfect for a cozy family dinner or a casual weeknight meal.
Whether you’re a fan of homemade chicken meatballs, love hearty Italian flavors, or simply want a dish that looks and tastes impressive without much effort, this recipe delivers on all fronts. It’s approachable enough for beginner cooks and flavorful enough to satisfy seasoned food lovers.
So, get your skillet or slow cooker ready—it’s time to make a meal that’s bound to become a new favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are plenty of reasons why this Tuscan Chicken Meatballs & Gnocchi recipe deserves a spot in your weekly rotation. It’s not just tasty—it’s a dish that combines comfort, convenience, and rich flavor in every bite.
- Flavor-Packed and Creamy: The combination of tender chicken meatballs, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, spinach, and parmesan creates a bold, creamy Tuscan sauce that’s truly irresistible.
- Hearty and Satisfying: Thanks to the pillowy gnocchi and protein-rich chicken, this dish is filling without being heavy—perfect for both lunch and dinner.
- One-Pan or Slow Cooker Friendly: You can make everything in a single skillet or toss it all into a slow cooker for a hands-off dinner. Either way, cleanup is simple.
- Family-Approved: The flavors are comforting and familiar, making it a great option for both adults and picky eaters.
- Customizable: You can adjust the sauce, swap ingredients, or add more veggies without losing the heart of the dish.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a double batch and enjoy it throughout the week. It reheats beautifully and stays flavorful.
Ingredients
These simple ingredients come together to make a rich and cozy Tuscan Chicken Meatballs & Gnocchi dish. It’s full of flavor, creamy, and feels like a special meal—without being hard to make.
For the Chicken Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Creamy Tuscan Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cups baby spinach
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Gnocchi:
- 16 oz potato gnocchi (shelf-stable or fresh)
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Chicken Meatballs
In a large bowl, gently mix together the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until just combined. Roll into 1 to 1½-inch meatballs.
Step 2: Brown the Meatballs
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides for about 6–8 minutes. Transfer to a plate.
Step 3: Build the Tuscan Sauce
In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil. Sauté the diced onion until translucent. Add garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Stir for 1–2 minutes.
Step 4: Add Parmesan and Simmer
Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir in Parmesan. Let simmer for 4–5 minutes. Add meatballs back into the sauce and cover to cook for another 10–12 minutes.
Step 5: Add Gnocchi and Spinach
Add gnocchi to the skillet and simmer uncovered for 5–7 minutes. Gently stir in the spinach and cook until wilted.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Adjust seasoning. Serve hot with extra parmesan and cracked black pepper.
Pro Tips and Variations
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
- Don’t overmix the meatball mixture.
- Brown meatballs first for flavor and structure.
- Simmer slowly for deeper flavor.
- Add gnocchi toward the end to prevent overcooking.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melt.
Tasty Variations to Try
- Swap ground chicken with turkey or beef.
- Add crushed red pepper for heat.
- Stir in mushrooms or zucchini for extra veggies.
- Use coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
- Mix in tomato paste for a rosé-style sauce.
- Stir in a spoonful of pesto for herby flavor.
- Make it gluten-free with gluten-free gnocchi and breadcrumbs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a Fresh Side Salad
A crisp salad with balsamic vinaigrette or lemony arugula pairs beautifully.
Add a Warm Bread Side
Try garlic bread, baguette slices, or focaccia to soak up extra sauce.
Pair with Roasted Vegetables
Options like asparagus, carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans add a nice texture.
Garnish Ideas for Extra Flavor
Fresh basil, parsley, more Parmesan, red pepper flakes, or a drizzle of olive oil.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a meal that’s comforting, flavorful, and easy to make, this Tuscan Chicken Meatballs & Gnocchi recipe checks every box. Whether you’re cooking for family or guests, it delivers restaurant-style quality with minimal effort.
It’s customizable, satisfying, and comes together in one skillet—making it a perfect choice for both weeknights and special dinners.
FAQs
What are Tuscan gnocchi?
Gnocchi served with a rustic sauce made from garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and parmesan.
Is chicken good with gnocchi?
Yes! Chicken adds lean protein and balances the pillowy texture of gnocchi.
What is traditionally served with gnocchi?
Tomato sauces, butter and sage, pesto, or cream-based sauces with meats.
Is gnocchi healthier than pasta?
Gnocchi can be lighter or heavier depending on ingredients. It’s typically higher in carbs from potatoes.
What sauce goes best with gnocchi?
Creamy, tomato, and pesto sauces all pair well. This Tuscan sauce is especially flavorful.
Should gnocchi be fried or boiled?
Boiling is traditional, but pan-frying after boiling adds a crisp edge.
Is gnocchi a pasta or potato?
It’s a potato dumpling, often grouped with pasta due to similar uses
