Marinara Chicken Gnocchi Bake

• 1 lb gnocchi
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
• 1/2 cup diced onions
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Steps

1. 1 Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. 2 In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken, seasoned with salt and oregano, and cook until browned.
3. 3 Add diced onions, bell peppers, and garlic to the skillet, cooking until softened.
4. 4 Stir in the marinara sauce and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer for 5 minutes.
5. 5 Meanwhile, cook gnocchi according to package instructions until just tender; drain.
6. 6 Combine gnocchi with the chicken mixture in a greased baking dish.
7. 7 Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.
8. 8 Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, until bubbly and cheese is melted.
9. 9 Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Equipment

• Large skillet
• Baking dish
• Oven

Variations

• Add cooked ground sausage for a heartier dish.
• Substitute zucchini for bell peppers for a lower-carb option.

Substitutions

• Use store-bought pesto instead of marinara for a twist.
• Replace mozzarella with cheddar for a different flavor profile.

Pairings

• Italian soda
• A crisp Pinot Grigio

Nutrition

Tips

• For extra flavor, sauté the gnocchi in a bit of the skillet's sauce before combining.
• Feel free to add spinach or other vegetables for extra nutrients.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a 350°F oven until hot.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of garlic bread.
• Pair with a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

FAQ