Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Discover a flavorful Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet recipe that’s quick, easy, and perfect for weeknight dinners. This one-pan wonder combines tender garlic-infused chicken with pillowy gnocchi in a creamy sauce that’s bursting with rich flavor. It’s the kind of dish that feels fancy but comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights when you want comfort food without a lot of fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, perfect for weeknight meals without sacrificing taste.
• One-Pan Wonder: Cleanup is a breeze since everything cooks in a single skillet.
• Flavor Packed: Garlic and herbs create a savory sauce that elevates simple ingredients into something special.
• Comfort Food Classic: The creamy gnocchi adds a cozy texture that feels indulgent yet homemade.
• Customizable: Easy to tweak with veggies or cheese depending on what you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet relies on a handful of simple, quality ingredients that balance flavor and texture beautifully. Each component contributes depth to the dish—from the tender chicken to the soft gnocchi, all coated in a luscious garlic cream sauce.

• Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless, sliced thin for quick cooking and juicy bites.
• Potato Gnocchi: Store-bought or homemade, these soft dumplings soak up the sauce perfectly.
• Garlic Cloves: Fresh and minced, they provide the recipe’s signature rich aroma.
• Heavy Cream: Adds a silky, smooth texture to the sauce, making it irresistibly creamy.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grated for a sharp, salty finish that complements the garlic and cream.
• Spinach or Kale: Optional greens add a pop of color and a nutrition boost.
• Olive Oil & Butter: Used for browning chicken and creating a flavorful base for the sauce.
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that enhances the overall flavor profile without overpowering.
• Salt & Pepper: To taste, essential for bringing out all the layered flavors.

Variations for Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable so you can make it your own depending on what you have in your kitchen or your preferences. Whether you’re looking to add veggies, swap ingredients, or cater to dietary needs, it’s simple to customize.

• Veggie Boost: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and texture.
• Cheese Swap: Try mozzarella or fontina instead of parmesan for a milder, melty twist.
• Herb Variations: Fresh basil or thyme can replace Italian seasoning for a fragrant alternative.
• Low Carb Option: Substitute gnocchi with cauliflower gnocchi or spiralized zucchini noodles.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut cream and nutritional yeast to keep it creamy without dairy.

How to Make Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add chicken strips. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. This releases the rich garlic flavor that forms the sauce base.

Step 3: Cook the Gnocchi

Add potato gnocchi directly into the skillet with garlic. Sauté gently until they turn golden and slightly crispy on the edges, usually 3–4 minutes. This texture contrast takes the dish to the next level.

Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce

Pour in heavy cream and stir in grated parmesan cheese. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, letting the sauce thicken slightly while stirring occasionally to blend all the flavors.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, add fresh spinach or kale if using, and stir everything together until the greens wilt and the sauce coats all ingredients evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook chicken in batches if needed to get a nice sear without steaming.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Avoid pre-minced garlic for a more vibrant, intense flavor.
• Brown Gnocchi Well: Let gnocchi brown undisturbed to develop a crispy exterior that adds texture contrast.
• Reserve Some Cheese: Sprinkle extra parmesan on top before serving for a cheesy finish.
• Adjust Creaminess: For a thicker sauce, simmer a bit longer; for thinner, add broth or milk in small amounts.

How to Serve Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil adds a burst of color and fresh flavor. Finish with cracked black pepper or additional parmesan for a restaurant-quality touch.

Side Dishes

This skillet dish stands wonderfully on its own but pairs nicely with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty garlic bread to soak up every last bit of sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve directly from the skillet to the table for a cozy, rustic feel. You can also portion it into individual bowls and add a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a touch of chili flakes for those who like a little heat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer leftover Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld and improve after a day.

Freezing

This dish freezes well but is best to freeze before adding spinach or other greens, as they can become mushy. Reheat gently to retain texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if needed. Avoid microwaving to keep the gnocchi from becoming gummy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen gnocchi works well—just add a couple extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they’re heated through and nicely browned.

What type of chicken works best?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are ideal as they cook quickly and remain tender; thighs will add extra richness.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the chicken and add hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant to maintain fullness and flavor.

Is this recipe spicy?

By default, the Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is mild, but you can easily add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne for a spicy kick.

How do I prevent gnocchi from sticking together?

Make sure to toss gnocchi gently in a hot pan with enough oil and avoid overcrowding. Stir minimally until they form a crust, then stir again.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a comforting, delicious meal that’s quick and fuss-free, this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is calling your name. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy creamy, garlicky goodness with tender chicken and perfectly cooked gnocchi all in one pan. Give it a try tonight and watch it become a favorite in your recipe rotation!

Related Posts

• Pesto Pizza with Fresh Basil
• Maple Dijon Chicken Harvest Bowls
• Garlic Chili Oil Spaghetti

Print