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. Here’s why you’ll love making (and eating) it:

• 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.
  

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for an easy dinner idea with gourmet flavor, this chicken meatballs and gnocchi recipe checks all the boxes.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to make this rich and satisfying Tuscan Chicken Meatballs & Gnocchi dish. The ingredients are simple, yet full of flavor, creating a creamy, comforting meal that feels special without being complicated.

For the Chicken Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground chicken – Lean and tender, perfect for making juicy meatballs.
• 1/3 cup breadcrumbs – Helps bind the mixture and keep it light.
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese – Adds savory flavor to the meatballs.
• 1 egg – Holds everything together.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – For a burst of fresh garlic flavor.
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that enhances the taste.
• 1/2 tsp salt – Balances the flavor.
• 1/4 tsp black pepper – Adds a little warmth.

For the Creamy Tuscan Sauce:

• 2 tbsp olive oil – For searing the meatballs and sautéing the sauce base.
• 1 small yellow onion, diced – Adds depth and sweetness.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – A must-have for bold flavor.
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped – Packed with rich, tangy flavor.
• 2 cups chicken broth – Forms the base of the sauce and enhances the flavor.
• 1 cup heavy cream – Makes the sauce rich and silky.
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese – Melts into the sauce for a savory finish.
• 2 cups baby spinach – Wilts into the sauce for added nutrition and color.
• Salt and pepper, to taste – Adjust seasoning to your preference.
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional) – For a subtle kick of heat.

For the Gnocchi:

• 16 oz potato gnocchi (shelf-stable or fresh) – Light, pillowy bites that soak up the creamy sauce.

Note: You can also use frozen gnocchi—just adjust cook time slightly.

This ingredient list may look long, but everything works together seamlessly to build a restaurant-quality meal that’s easy to make at home. The beauty of this recipe lies in its balance—comforting meatballs, tender gnocchi, and a creamy Tuscan sauce that brings everything together.

Instructions

Follow these simple, step-by-step directions to make your Tuscan Chicken Meatballs & Gnocchi come together flawlessly. Whether you’re using a skillet or slow cooker, you’ll end up with a creamy, flavorful dish that tastes like it came from a restaurant.

Step 1: Make the Chicken Meatballs

1. In a large bowl, gently mix together the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
2. Roll the mixture into small, evenly sized meatballs (about 1 to 1½ inches in diameter).

Step 2: Brown the Meatballs

1. Begin by heating one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the meatballs and brown them on all sides to enhance their flavor and help them maintain their shape while cooking in the sauce.
3. Cook for about 6–8 minutes until browned. The meatballs don’t need to be fully cooked through at this stage—they’ll finish cooking in the sauce.
4. Transfer them to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Tuscan Sauce

1. After that, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir well to combine.

Step 4: Add Parmesan and Simmer

1. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 4–5 minutes to thicken slightly.
2. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (optional).
3. Add the browned meatballs back into the skillet. Cover and simmer for 10–12 minutes, allowing them to cook through and soak up the flavors.

Step 5: Add Gnocchi and Spinach

1. Add the gnocchi directly into the sauce. Stir to coat.
2. Simmer uncovered for 5–7 minutes, or until the gnocchi is tender and cooked through.
3. Gently fold in the baby spinach. Cook for another 1–2 minutes until the spinach wilts.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

1. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
2. Serve hot, garnished with extra grated parmesan and freshly cracked black pepper if desired.

This recipe is versatile, and you can easily adapt it to a slow cooker method as well. Let me know if you’d like the Slow Cooker version added too!

Pro Tips and Variations

Making Tuscan Chicken Meatballs & Gnocchi is simple, but these extra tips and creative variations will take your dish to the next level. Whether you’re looking for better texture, bolder flavor, or a personalized twist, this section has you covered.

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Don’t Overmix the Meatball Mixture:
  Mix just until the ingredients are combined. Overworking the mixture can make the meatballs dense instead of tender.
  
• Brown for Flavor:
  Browning the meatballs before simmering them in the sauce not only boosts their flavor but also helps them retain their shape and prevents them from falling apart.
  
• Simmer Slowly:
  Allowing the sauce to simmer gently helps the flavors deepen and the meatballs to cook evenly without drying out.
  
• Add the Gnocchi Last:
  Gnocchi cooks quickly. Add it toward the end so it stays tender and doesn’t become mushy.
  
• Grate Your Parmesan Fresh:
  Freshly grated parmesan melts better and gives the sauce a smoother, richer texture compared to pre-shredded cheese.

Tasty Variations to Try

• Swap the Protein:
  No ground chicken? Try ground turkey, or even lean beef. You can also use pre-cooked meatballs for a quicker version.
  
• Make It Spicier:
  Add a pinch of cayenne or extra red pepper flakes if you prefer a little heat in your creamy sauce.
  
• Add Extra Veggies:
  Toss in sautéed mushrooms, roasted red peppers, or zucchini to make it even more nutritious.
  
• Make It Dairy-Free:
  Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
  
• Try a Tomato-Cream Blend:
  Mix in a small amount of crushed tomatoes or tomato paste with the cream for a rosé-style sauce that adds richness and tang.
  
• Pesto Gnocchi Twist:
  Add a spoonful of basil pesto to the sauce for a fragrant herbal flavor boost.
  
• Make It Gluten-Free:
  Use gluten-free gnocchi and certified gluten-free breadcrumbs in the meatballs.
  

This dish is already packed with flavor, but these tweaks make it easy to adapt to your preferences, dietary needs, or available ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

The beauty of this Tuscan Chicken Meatballs & Gnocchi dish is that it’s complete and satisfying all on its own—but you can easily pair it with a few simple sides or garnishes to create a full, well-rounded meal.

Here are some serving ideas that complement the creamy sauce, savory chicken meatballs, and tender gnocchi:

Serve with a Fresh Side Salad

Balance the richness of the creamy Tuscan sauce with a light salad:

• Mixed greens with balsamic vinaigrette
• Arugula and cherry tomatoes with olive oil and lemon juice
• Spinach salad with red onion and a splash of vinegar

These fresh greens help cut through the creaminess and add a refreshing contrast.

Add a Warm Bread Side

There’s nothing better than sopping up leftover sauce with bread:

• Toasted garlic bread
• Warm crusty baguette slices
• Soft dinner rolls or focaccia

Perfect for dipping into the extra sauce and making sure none of the flavor goes to waste.

Pair with Roasted Vegetables

Add more color and nutrition to your plate:

• Roasted asparagus
• Oven-roasted carrots with thyme
• Balsamic-glazed Brussels sprouts
• Sauteed green beans with garlic

These sides add texture and earthiness that pair well with the creamy Tuscan elements.

Garnish Ideas for Extra Flavor

• Extra grated parmesan on top
• Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a vibrant splash of color.
• A sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat
• A drizzle of olive oil for richness

Serve this Tuscan Chicken Meatballs & Gnocchi for a comforting weeknight dinner or an elegant meal for guests. It’s best enjoyed with simple side dishes that complement its creamy, savory flavors base without complicating the meal.

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. It’s a perfect blend of creamy sauce, juicy chicken meatballs, and soft gnocchi—brought together with bold flavors like garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and parmesan.

Whether you’re cooking for family, entertaining guests, or just treating yourself to something hearty, this dish delivers restaurant-style quality right from your kitchen—without the hassle. It’s the kind of recipe that’s easy enough for a weeknight and impressive enough for a special dinner.

The best part? It’s versatile. You can switch up the protein, add extra veggies, or turn up the spice. With just one skillet (or a slow cooker), you’ll create a meal that everyone will ask for again.

So next time you want something cozy, satisfying, and truly delicious, try this Tuscan Chicken Meatballs with Gnocchi recipe—you won’t regret it.

Tuscan Chicken Meatballs & Gnocchi

Emily

Creamy, comforting, and full of flavor—this Tuscan Chicken Meatballs & Gnocchi recipe is an easy dinner idea your family will love. Ready in under an hour!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Italian, Tuscan

Servings 4 people

Calories 565 kcal

Ingredients

  

For the Chicken Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground chicken – Lean and tender perfect for making juicy meatballs.
• 1/3 cup breadcrumbs – Helps bind the mixture and keep it light.
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese – Adds savory flavor to the meatballs.
• 1 egg – Holds everything together.
• 2 cloves garlic minced – For a burst of fresh garlic flavor.
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that enhances the taste.
• 1/2 tsp salt – Balances the flavor.
• 1/4 tsp black pepper – Adds a little warmth.

For the Creamy Tuscan Sauce:

• 2 tbsp olive oil – For searing the meatballs and sautéing the sauce base.
• 1 small yellow onion diced – Adds depth and sweetness.
• 3 cloves garlic minced – A must-have for bold flavor.
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped – Packed with rich, tangy flavor.
• 2 cups chicken broth – Forms the base of the sauce and enhances the flavor.
• 1 cup heavy cream – Makes the sauce rich and silky.
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese – Melts into the sauce for a savory finish.
• 2 cups baby spinach – Wilts into the sauce for added nutrition and color.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Adjust seasoning to your preference.
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes optional – For a subtle kick of heat.

For the Gnocchi:

• 16 oz potato gnocchi shelf-stable or fresh – Light, pillowy bites that soak up the creamy sauce.

Instructions

 

Step 1: Make the Chicken Meatballs

• In a large bowl, gently mix together the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
• Roll the mixture into small, evenly sized meatballs (about 1 to 1½ inches in diameter).

Step 2: Brown the Meatballs

• Begin by heating one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add the meatballs and brown them on all sides to enhance their flavor and help them maintain their shape while cooking in the sauce.
• Cook for about 6–8 minutes until browned. The meatballs don’t need to be fully cooked through at this stage—they’ll finish cooking in the sauce.
• Transfer them to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Tuscan Sauce

• After that, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet.
• Stir in the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
• Stir in the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
• Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir well to combine.

Step 4: Add Parmesan and Simmer

• Stir in the grated parmesan cheese. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 4–5 minutes to thicken slightly.
• Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (optional).
• Add the browned meatballs back into the skillet. Cover and simmer for 10–12 minutes, allowing them to cook through and soak up the flavors.

Step 5: Add Gnocchi and Spinach

• Add the gnocchi directly into the sauce. Stir to coat.
• Simmer uncovered for 5–7 minutes, or until the gnocchi is tender and cooked through.
• Gently fold in the baby spinach. Cook for another 1–2 minutes until the spinach wilts.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

• Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
• Serve hot, garnished with extra grated parmesan and freshly cracked black pepper if desired.

Notes

Nutrition Information:

• Calories: 565 kcal
• Total Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Protein: 34g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 6g
• Cholesterol: 135mg
• Sodium: 780mg

Keyword Chicken Meatballs, Creamy Gnocchi Recipe, Tuscan Chicken Meatballs with Gnocchi

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