Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

If you’re craving a quick, comforting, and wildly flavorful dinner, you’ve got to try this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet. This creamy and garlicky dish combines tender chicken with pillowy gnocchi in one savory skillet, making it the perfect go-to for busy weeknights or anytime you want a fuss-free, satisfying meal. With simple ingredients and a smooth, rich sauce, this recipe delivers big taste and a cozy vibe in under 30 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Speedy Prep: Ready in less than 30 minutes, ideal for busy nights when time is tight.
• Comfort in Every Bite: Creamy garlic sauce and soft gnocchi create an irresistible, hearty meal.
• One-Skillet Wonder: Minimal cleanup since everything cooks in the same pan.
• Flexible and Adaptable: Easy to swap ingredients to suit your taste or pantry stock.
• Family Friendly: Kid-approved flavors that both adults and little ones will enjoy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Nothing complicated here! The ingredients for this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet are simple but essential. Each item adds to the creamy richness, savory depth, or vibrant texture that make this dish so comforting and delicious.

• Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless work best for even cooking and tender bites.
• Gnocchi: Store-bought potato gnocchi saves time and soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves give that unmistakable aromatic punch and richness.
• Heavy Cream: Creates the silky base for the luscious sauce that coats everything.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds savory, nutty flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
• Spinach (optional): Fresh spinach adds a pop of color and a healthy green boost.
• Olive Oil: For cooking chicken and sautéing garlic with a light fruity flavor.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance flavors.

Variations for Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

This recipe is super easy to customize so you can tailor it to your preferences, dietary needs, or pantry availability. Feel free to experiment and make it your own!

• Swap Protein: Use Italian sausage, turkey breast, or even shrimp for a new twist.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and omit Parmesan for a non-dairy version.
• Veggie Boost: Add mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted red peppers for extra flavor and texture.
• Spicy Kick: Toss in red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
• Herb Variations: Fresh thyme, basil, or rosemary can add unique aromatic layers.

How to Make Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown on both sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Add Gnocchi

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not burned. Add the gnocchi directly to the skillet, stirring gently, and cook until they start to turn golden, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour in heavy cream and stir continuously to combine the garlic flavor into the sauce. Bring the cream to a gentle simmer, then sprinkle in grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly, coating the gnocchi perfectly.

Step 4: Return Chicken and Add Spinach

Slice the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and nestle them back into the skillet. Add fresh spinach and stir gently until it wilts into the sauce, adding lovely color and a touch of freshness.

Step 5: Final Seasoning

Taste the dish and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to blend all flavors before serving hot.

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook chicken in batches if needed for a perfect sear every time.
• Use Fresh Garlic: It gives the sauce a vibrant, robust flavor unlike pre-minced garlic.
• Golden Gnocchi: Let the gnocchi brown slightly for added texture instead of just boiling them.
• Low and Slow for Cream: Keep the cream at a gentle simmer to avoid curdling.
• Finish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of parsley or basil at the end brightens the dish beautifully.

How to Serve Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan, a pinch of chopped fresh parsley, or a few red pepper flakes adds color and layers of flavor that make the dish pop right before serving.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread for a balanced meal that complements the skillet’s rich creaminess.

Creative Ways to Present

For a rustic look, serve the skillet family-style right from the pan. Alternatively, plate individual servings with a drizzle of olive oil and a lemon wedge to add a zesty brightness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more after resting overnight!

Freezing

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze portions in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if the sauce thickens too much. Microwave works too but stir halfway to maintain creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen gnocchi works well and may even take a little less time to cook. Just adjust cooking time accordingly, and ensure you brown them nicely in the skillet.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Traditional gnocchi usually contains wheat, so for gluten-free, look for gnocchi made with alternative flours or make your own gluten-free version.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs add more richness and stay juicy, but they may take slightly longer to cook through, so adjust your cooking time.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

Coconut cream or a cashew cream can work for a dairy-free alternative, but it will change the flavor profile slightly. Half-and-half can also be used for a lighter sauce.

How spicy is this dish?

This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is not spicy by default, but you can easily add crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce to spice it up to your liking.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet has quickly become one of my favorite weeknight meals because it’s fast, fuss-free, and so incredibly satisfying. The creamy garlic sauce paired with tender chicken and soft gnocchi feels like a warm hug on a plate. I highly encourage you to give this recipe a try and customize it to your taste — it’s bound to become a family favorite in your house too!

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