Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a one-pan wonder that combines tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a creamy garlic sauce into a dish that’s both hearty and comforting. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, this skillet meal brings together simple ingredients for maximum flavor with minimal effort.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and versatility. The gnocchi cooks directly in the creamy sauce, absorbing all the savory goodness while maintaining its soft texture. The addition of golden-seared chicken and fresh spinach (or your favorite vegetables) makes it a well-balanced, all-in-one meal.

With a rich, garlicky flavor profile, this dish is sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting a small gathering, Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a dish that never fails to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this is a great option for busy weeknights.

One-Pan Convenience: Everything cooks in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.

Rich and Creamy: The garlic-infused sauce adds a luxurious touch to every bite.

Customizable: Add vegetables, adjust the seasonings, or swap the protein for endless variations.

Comfort Food Classic: A warm and satisfying meal that’s perfect for cooler evenings or when you’re craving something indulgent.

Preparation Time and Servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 520 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Protein: 32g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 2g

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce:

• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Gnocchi:

• 1 package (16 ounces) potato gnocchi

Optional Add-Ins:

• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped

Garnishes:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Additional Parmesan cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

1. Season the diced chicken with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

1. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

1. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet for extra flavor.
2. Add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to combine and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Cook the Gnocchi

1. Add the uncooked gnocchi directly to the skillet. Cover and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gnocchi is tender and the sauce has thickened.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, along with any optional add-ins like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes. Stir until everything is heated through and the spinach is wilted.
2. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.

Step 6: Serve

1. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese before serving.
2. Serve hot, paired with garlic bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal.

Ingredient Background

Chicken

Chicken breasts or thighs are ideal for this dish. Breasts are leaner, while thighs provide more juiciness and flavor.

Potato Gnocchi

These soft, pillowy dumplings are the perfect base for absorbing the rich garlic cream sauce.

Garlic

The star of the sauce, garlic provides the dish with its warm, aromatic foundation.

Parmesan Cheese

Freshly grated Parmesan adds a nutty, savory depth and helps thicken the sauce.

Spinach

Adding spinach brings a fresh, earthy contrast to the richness of the sauce.

Technique Tips

Golden Chicken: Searing the chicken first locks in its juices and creates a flavorful crust that enhances the overall dish.

Simmer, Don’t Boil: Keep the sauce at a gentle simmer to prevent the cream from separating.

Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and has a more pronounced flavor than pre-shredded varieties.

Don’t Overcook the Gnocchi: Gnocchi cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to maintain its tender, pillowy texture.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

Individual Bowls: Serve the dish in individual bowls, garnished with parsley and Parmesan for a polished presentation.

Baked Gnocchi: Transfer the assembled dish to an oven-safe dish, sprinkle with mozzarella or more Parmesan, and broil for a golden, bubbly topping.

Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or roasted red peppers for a veggie-packed meal.

Pasta Swap: Substitute the gnocchi with pasta like fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni for a different texture.

Additional Tips for Success

Taste and Adjust: Always taste the sauce before serving to ensure the seasoning is balanced. Add more garlic, Parmesan, or salt as needed.

Keep it Warm: If serving later, keep the skillet on low heat and cover it to maintain warmth. Stir occasionally and add a splash of broth to refresh the sauce.

Add Texture: Top the dish with toasted breadcrumbs or pine nuts for a crunchy contrast.

Recipe Variations

Lemon Garlic Gnocchi: Add fresh lemon juice and zest to the sauce for a bright, tangy twist.

Creamy Pesto Gnocchi: Stir in 2–3 tablespoons of basil pesto for a herby, vibrant flavor.

Mushroom and Chicken Gnocchi: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the garlic for an earthy addition.

Seafood Gnocchi: Replace the chicken with shrimp or scallops for a luxurious seafood variation.

Freezing and Storing

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore the sauce’s consistency.

Freezing: Freeze the chicken and gnocchi (without spinach) in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Tip: Reheat over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the sauce from separating.

Healthier Twist Ideas

Light Cream Sauce: Swap heavy cream with half-and-half or evaporated milk for a lighter version of the dish that doesn’t compromise on creaminess. For an even leaner option, try using unsweetened almond or oat milk combined with a teaspoon of cornstarch to thicken the sauce.

Extra Veggies: Boost the nutritional profile of the dish by adding a variety of colorful vegetables like steamed broccoli, sautéed kale, or roasted cherry tomatoes. These add texture, flavor, and vital nutrients while complementing the creamy sauce beautifully.

Lean Protein: Replace chicken with turkey breast or even shrimp for a leaner and high-protein alternative. Vegetarians can opt for diced tofu or chickpeas, which absorb the garlic and Parmesan flavors wonderfully.

Whole-Wheat Gnocchi: Use whole-wheat or cauliflower-based gnocchi to add fiber and make the dish more filling while keeping it lower in refined carbs. Zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash are also great substitutes for a veggie-forward twist.

Serving Suggestions for Events

Weeknight Dinner: Serve the Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet with a crisp Caesar salad and warm garlic bread for an effortless yet comforting weeknight family meal. It’s a complete dish that requires minimal sides to round it out.

Dinner Party Entrée: Present the skillet dish in a large, decorative cast iron pan to keep it warm and give it a rustic yet sophisticated appearance. Garnish generously with parsley and freshly grated Parmesan to wow your guests.

Holiday Side Dish: Include this rich and indulgent skillet as a standout side dish at your holiday table. It pairs beautifully with roasted meats like turkey, beef tenderloin, or honey-glazed ham. Adding a few sprigs of thyme or rosemary as garnish elevates the festive presentation.

Potluck Dish: Transport this dish to a potluck in a casserole dish for easy serving. Sprinkle extra Parmesan or mozzarella cheese on top and bake until golden and bubbly to give it an irresistible look and texture.

Special Equipment

Large Skillet: A deep, wide skillet ensures even cooking and allows enough room for tossing all the ingredients together without making a mess. Choose a skillet with a non-stick surface for easier cleanup.

Microplane Grater: Finely grate fresh Parmesan cheese and garlic for a smooth and flavorful sauce. Using a microplane ensures even distribution of the cheese and a velvety finish to the dish.

Tongs: Tongs are essential for gently tossing the gnocchi and chicken in the sauce. They also make it easier to serve without damaging the delicate dumplings.

Lid: A lid helps the gnocchi cook faster and evenly by trapping steam, ensuring the sauce doesn’t evaporate too quickly during the cooking process.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use store-bought gnocchi for this recipe?
   Yes, store-bought gnocchi works perfectly for this dish. If you’re feeling adventurous, homemade gnocchi can also be used for a more personalized touch.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Reheat the dish gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce before serving.
3. What can I use instead of heavy cream?
   You can use half-and-half, evaporated milk, or unsweetened almond milk thickened with cornstarch as a lighter alternative to heavy cream.
4. How do I keep the gnocchi from getting mushy?
   Make sure to cook the gnocchi just until tender, following package instructions. Avoid overcooking, and add it to the sauce only during the final steps to prevent it from absorbing too much liquid.
5. Can I freeze leftovers?
   Yes, you can freeze the cooked dish in an airtight container for up to 2 months. However, the texture of the gnocchi may become slightly softer upon reheating. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop.
6. What proteins can I use if I don’t have chicken?
   Shrimp, turkey breast, or even thinly sliced sausage work well in place of chicken. For vegetarian options, try tofu, chickpeas, or mushrooms.
7. Can I add more cheese to the dish?
   Absolutely! Mozzarella, Gruyère, or Asiago cheese can be mixed in or sprinkled on top for extra cheesiness.
8. What other herbs work well in this recipe?
   Fresh thyme, rosemary, or basil are excellent additions that enhance the garlic and Parmesan flavors in the sauce.

Conclusion

Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is the epitome of comfort food, blending rich flavors with creamy textures to create a dish that feels indulgent yet approachable. The pillowy gnocchi, savory garlic sauce, and tender chicken make it a meal that’s both hearty and satisfying.

Whether you’re preparing it as a quick weeknight dinner or showcasing it as the star of a dinner party, this one-skillet recipe delivers flavor and convenience in equal measure. With its versatility and easy customizations, Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a dish you’ll return to time and time again.

Treat yourself and your loved ones to the ultimate in cozy, creamy perfection. Try it today and experience why this dish is a timeless favorite!

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