Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

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Introduction

Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a rich and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a flavorful garlic-infused sauce all cooked together in a skillet. The chicken is usually seasoned and sautéed until golden, while the gnocchi is pan-fried until crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. The garlic sauce, often made with butter, olive oil, and a touch of cream, ties everything together, creating a creamy, savory dish that’s hearty yet easy to make.

I first made this skillet when I was craving something indulgent but quick, and it turned out to be the perfect balance of creamy, garlicky goodness and hearty chicken. The crispy gnocchi adds a delightful texture, while the garlic sauce infuses every bite with rich, savory flavor. What I love most about this recipe is how customizable it is—you can add spinach for a pop of color and nutrients, toss in some Parmesan for extra creaminess, or even use different herbs like rosemary or thyme to enhance the flavors. Whether served as a cozy weeknight dinner or a special meal, Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is sure to satisfy!

Perfect for:

  • Weeknight dinners
  • Comfort food cravings
  • Family meals
  • Easy entertaining
  • One-pan recipe enthusiasts

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are 10 reasons why this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet will be your new go-to meal:

  • One-Pan Wonder: Minimal dishes to clean up, perfect for busy days.
  • Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight cooking.
  • Rich Garlic Flavor: A creamy garlic sauce that’s full of depth and aroma.
  • Tender Chicken Pieces: Juicy and well-seasoned chicken adds protein and heartiness.
  • Perfectly Cooked Gnocchi: Soft and chewy gnocchi that absorbs the delicious sauce.
  • Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike, it’s a crowd-pleaser.
  • Customizable Add-Ins: Add veggies like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrients.
  • Comforting and Satisfying: A meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
  • Great for Leftovers: Tastes just as good the next day, reheated.
  • Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and fresh, easy-to-find ingredients.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 32g, Carbs: 40g, Fat: 18g

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Gnocchi Skillet:

  • 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 2 cups fresh spinach (optional)

Optional Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Additional Parmesan cheese

Ingredient Highlights

  • Potato Gnocchi: Soft and fluffy, a great base for soaking up the creamy sauce.
  • Heavy Cream: Creates the luscious, velvety texture of the sauce.
  • Garlic: Adds depth and aroma, making this dish irresistibly savory.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Provides a nutty, salty flavor to balance the richness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:

  1. Season Chicken: In a bowl, toss cubed chicken with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  2. Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Cook the Gnocchi:

  1. Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  2. Add Gnocchi and Broth: Stir in potato gnocchi and chicken broth, ensuring the gnocchi is evenly coated. Cover and cook for 5 minutes until gnocchi is tender.

Make the Sauce:

  1. Add Cream and Cheese: Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  2. Incorporate Spinach (Optional): Add spinach and stir until wilted.

Combine and Serve:

  1. Reintroduce Chicken: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Cook for 1-2 minutes to reheat.
  2. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese. Serve hot.

How to Serve

Here are 9 serving suggestions for Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet:

  • As a Standalone Meal: It’s hearty enough to serve on its own.
  • With Garlic Bread: Pair with crusty garlic bread for soaking up the sauce.
  • Alongside a Salad: Serve with a simple Caesar or mixed greens salad.
  • For a Potluck: A crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to transport.
  • For Meal Prep: Divide into containers for quick, reheatable lunches.
  • As a Family Dinner: Serve in the skillet for a rustic, family-style presentation.
  • With Roasted Vegetables: Add roasted asparagus or zucchini on the side.
  • With a Soup Starter: Pair with a light soup like minestrone for a complete meal.
  • For Date Night: A cozy, homemade dish to share with your special someone.

Additional Tips

  • Pre-Cook the Gnocchi: For an extra crispy texture, boil the gnocchi until they float, then pan-fry them in olive oil before adding them to the skillet.
  • Use Pre-Cooked Chicken: Save time by using rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked chicken breast slices for a quick and effortless meal.
  • Add More Veggies: Toss in spinach, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini for added color, nutrients, and flavor.
  • Choose the Right Pan: A cast iron skillet helps retain heat evenly and enhances the dish’s flavor by developing a golden crust on the gnocchi and chicken.
  • Use Fresh Garlic: Mince fresh garlic cloves instead of using garlic powder for a stronger, more aromatic flavor.
  • Experiment with Herbs: Add fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil to elevate the dish’s depth and aroma.
  • Make it Creamier: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese to create a richer sauce.
  • Top with Cheese: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan or mozzarella over the skillet before serving, and broil it briefly for a bubbly, golden topping.
  • Adjust Spice Levels: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper if you enjoy a hint of heat in your meals.
  • Serve Immediately: Gnocchi tastes best when freshly cooked. Serve the dish immediately to enjoy its perfect texture and flavor.

Recipe Variations

  • Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and add more veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers.
  • Cheesy Gnocchi Bake: Transfer to an oven-safe dish, top with mozzarella, and broil until bubbly.
  • Creamy Pesto Gnocchi: Swap Italian seasoning for pesto for a herbaceous twist.
  • Low-Carb Option: Use cauliflower gnocchi for a lighter version.
  • Beef Bacon Chicken Gnocchi: Add crispy beef bacon bits for extra flavor.
  • Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut cream and nutritional yeast instead of cream and cheese.
  • Tomato-Based Sauce: Replace cream with marinara sauce for a tangy variation.
  • Seafood Twist: Substitute chicken with shrimp or scallops for a seafood option.
  • Herb-Infused Oil: Drizzle with basil or rosemary-infused olive oil before serving.
  • Lemon Garlic Gnocchi: Add a splash of lemon juice and zest for a bright, citrusy flavor.

Special Equipment

  • Large Skillet: A nonstick or cast iron skillet works best.
  • Wooden Spoon: For stirring and scraping the skillet.
  • Cheese Grater: To freshly grate Parmesan.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient portions.
  • Tongs: Useful for flipping and handling chicken pieces.

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use frozen gnocchi?
    Yes, just cook it directly without thawing.
  2. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
    Absolutely, just add it at the end to warm through.
  3. How do I store leftovers?
    Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  4. Can I freeze this dish?
    It’s best fresh, but you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat gently.
  5. What’s a good substitute for heavy cream?
    Half-and-half or a combination of milk and butter works well.
  6. How can I make it spicier?
    Add red pepper flakes or diced chili peppers to the sauce.
  7. Can I make it gluten-free?
    Use gluten-free gnocchi and check that all other ingredients are GF-certified.
  8. What’s the best way to reheat?
    Warm gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of cream if needed.
  9. Can I add cheese other than Parmesan?
    Yes, mozzarella or Asiago are great alternatives.
  10. What other protein can I use?
    Swap chicken for turkey, beef sausage, or tofu for variety.

Conclusion

Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a comforting, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and a rich garlic sauce, all cooked in one skillet for an easy and delicious meal. The chicken is seasoned and sautéed until golden, then combined with pillowy gnocchi, garlic, and a creamy sauce made with a bit of heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs. The garlic brings out a savory depth of flavor, while the gnocchi soaks up the rich sauce, making each bite a satisfying experience.

This recipe is quick and simple to make, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. You can add extra vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for additional flavor and texture. The garlic sauce ties everything together, creating a luscious, savory dish that is both hearty and comforting.

I can’t wait to see how your Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet turns out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your delicious creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own!