Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe
The Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is the ultimate comfort food for busy weeknights: tender pieces of chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a creamy garlic sauce come together in just one pan. Smothered in Parmesan and enriched with spinach, this skillet meal packs hearty flavor and irresistible texture in every bite. It’s one of those gems that looks and tastes impressive, but couldn’t be simpler to pull together. If you haven’t tried a creamy, garlicky, skillet dinner before, this recipe is about to earn a top spot in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is that each ingredient is a pantry or fridge staple, and every one brings something special to the table. From luscious cream to hearty chicken, they all work in harmony for a deeply satisfying dinner.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breast (1 pound): Choosing tender, boneless pieces makes prep a breeze and soaks up all those savory flavors.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): A splash of oil gets your chicken golden and delicious from the start.
- Butter (1 tablespoon): Adds richness and depth, especially when used to cook the gnocchi.
- Shelf-stable potato gnocchi (16 oz package): These soft, pillowy dumplings cook fast and make the dish wonderfully hearty.
- Garlic, minced (4 cloves): Don’t skimp—fresh garlic is the star, giving this skillet loads of flavor and aroma.
- Chicken broth (1 cup): Provides savory complexity while keeping things light.
- Heavy cream (½ cup): Brings everything together for a silky, decadent sauce.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (½ cup): Melts straight in for ooey-gooey, cheesy deliciousness and that extra burst of umami.
- Baby spinach (2 cups): Pops of green that wilt perfectly, balancing the creamy richness.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Essential to bring out every flavor—taste as you go!
- Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Just enough to add a gentle warmth.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish): Brings a fresh, herby brightness to finish things off.
How to Make Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet
Step 1: Brown the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. While it warms up, season your chicken generously with salt and pepper. Once the pan is hot, add the chicken and let it cook undisturbed for a few minutes to get that perfect golden sear. Turn the pieces and continue to cook for a total of 5–6 minutes until the chicken is thoroughly browned and cooked through. Scoop the chicken out of the skillet and set it aside; you’ll add it back in later so all that juiciness stays locked in.
Step 2: Toast the Gnocchi
In the same skillet (don’t wipe out the tasty browned bits!), melt the butter and let it foam. Tip in the gnocchi, spreading them out so as many as possible touch the pan. Let the gnocchi toast for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally—they’ll get irresistibly golden and slightly crispy on the outside while staying soft inside.
Step 3: Add the Garlic
Now the best part: sprinkle the minced garlic all over the gnocchi. Stir, and let the garlic sizzle for about 1 minute. You’ll smell that rich, fragrant aroma—this is the first hint of the luscious garlic flavor to come in your Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. As you stir, gently scrape up those caramelized bits from the bottom of the pan—they’re flavor gold! Bring the mixture to a simmer, letting the sauce bubble and thicken for 4–5 minutes. The gnocchi should be tender and the creamy broth will take on a glossy, velvety texture.
Step 5: Finish and Combine
Stir in the grated Parmesan (watch as it melts in), then add the baby spinach and the reserved chicken. Let everything bubble together for another couple of minutes, just until the spinach wilts and the sauce coats each delicious bite. Give a taste, adjust your seasoning if needed, and admire your masterpiece. Top with fresh parsley and dive in while it’s hot!
How to Serve Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet
Garnishes
A scattering of freshly chopped parsley does wonders for color and freshness on your Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet. For extra brightness, a quick zesting of lemon or a sprinkle of extra-Parmesan right before serving can make each plate pop. If you love a bit of heat, try a pinch of red pepper flakes—or even a touch of cracked black pepper—right at the end.
Side Dishes
This skillet dinner is hearty enough to stand alone, but it also goes beautifully with simple sides. Try a crisp green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette, roasted vegetables for extra color, or warm, crusty bread to soak up any leftover creamy sauce. If you’re feeding a crowd, a big platter of roasted asparagus or garlicky green beans fits right in.
Creative Ways to Present
Lean into the cozy, rustic vibe of the Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet by bringing the pan right to the table for a family-style presentation. For a dinner party, portion into shallow bowls and top each with a flourish of herbs. For lunches, spoon leftovers into meal-prep containers—the flavors only get better as they meld together.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cool any leftovers to room temperature, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet keeps well for up to 3 days, making it a smart option for meal prep or next-day lunches.
Freezing
Although the creamy sauce can change texture slightly after freezing, you can still freeze portions of Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet in tightly sealed containers for up to 2 months. Let them thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, transfer your leftovers to a skillet or saucepan and warm over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed. Stir gently and heat just until everything is hot—this prevents the sauce from turning grainy and keeps the gnocchi tender.
FAQs
Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?
Absolutely! This recipe is incredibly flexible. Try it with turkey, shrimp, or even Italian sausage—just adjust the cooking time so your protein is cooked through before adding it back in with the gnocchi and sauce.
What if I don’t have shelf-stable gnocchi?
No problem at all. You can use refrigerated or even homemade gnocchi. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary slightly; keep an eye on them so they stay pillowy and tender.
Can I make this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the heavy cream for a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream or an unsweetened plant-based creamer, and use a dairy-free Parmesan-style cheese—or leave it out entirely. The sauce will still be deliciously creamy.
How can I add more veggies?
There’s plenty of room to play. Toss in mushrooms, peas, sun-dried tomatoes, or even roasted red peppers with the spinach for extra color and nutrition. Just make sure everything is bite-sized for easy eating.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It depends on your gnocchi! Look for gluten-free potato gnocchi at the store, and then all your other ingredients naturally fit into a gluten-free diet. Always check labels to be sure.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving something deeply satisfying but outrageously easy, you’ll fall for Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet in a single bite. There’s something magical about the creamy sauce, garlicky undertones, and the coziness of a one-pan meal. Give it a whirl—even on your busiest night, this dish delivers comfort and flavor in record time.
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Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a creamy and satisfying one-pan meal that combines tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, spinach, and a decadent garlic Parmesan sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Gnocchi:
- 1 (16 oz) package shelf-stable potato gnocchi
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce:
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups baby spinach
Garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet, add seasoned chicken, cook until browned, then set aside.
- Cook Gnocchi: Melt butter in the same skillet, add gnocchi, cook until golden, then add garlic and sauté.
- Make Sauce: Pour in chicken broth and cream, simmer until gnocchi is tender and sauce thickens.
- Finish Dish: Stir in Parmesan, spinach, and cooked chicken. Cook until spinach wilts. Garnish with parsley and serve.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- You can substitute half-and-half for a lighter version of the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ½ cups
- Calories: 470
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
