Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe

This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a delicious one-pan meal that combines tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a rich garlic cream sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this dish is packed with flavor and requires minimal cleanup. With a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s easy to make yet tastes gourmet. This recipe is versatile, too; you can add vegetables, experiment with herbs, or swap in gluten-free gnocchi.

Introduction to Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

This recipe brings together the classic flavors of garlic and chicken in a comforting skillet with gnocchi. Gnocchi, which are Italian dumplings often made from potatoes, pair wonderfully with a creamy sauce that’s infused with garlic and herbs. The one-pan cooking method simplifies the process, making it accessible even on busy nights.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Gnocchi

• Use Fresh or Shelf-Stable Gnocchi: Either will work, but fresh gnocchi will cook faster.
• Brown the Gnocchi: For added texture, sear the gnocchi in the skillet until slightly crispy.
• Cook the Gnocchi in the Sauce: Instead of boiling separately, the gnocchi cooks directly in the garlic cream sauce, absorbing all the flavors.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Dice the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic, and have all ingredients measured and ready.
2. Heat the Skillet: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat until the butter melts and starts to bubble.
3. Sear the Chicken: Add the diced chicken to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of Italian seasoning. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
4. Cook the Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
5. Add the Gnocchi: Place the gnocchi in the skillet, stirring to coat in the garlic and oil. Sauté the gnocchi for about 2-3 minutes, allowing it to brown slightly for a crispy exterior.
6. Prepare the Cream Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and remaining Italian seasoning. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.
7. Add Chicken and Parmesan: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, and stir in the Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.
8. Add the Spinach: Toss in the fresh spinach leaves, stirring until they wilt and mix well with the sauce.
9. Season and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.

Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetables: Add mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers for extra flavor.
• Herbs: Swap Italian seasoning with fresh basil or thyme for a different herbal note.
• Lighter Version: Substitute half-and-half or milk for heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
• Cheese Options: Try using Asiago or Pecorino cheese instead of Parmesan for a twist.
• Protein Alternatives: You can substitute the chicken with shrimp or Italian sausage.

Serving Suggestions

This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with:

• Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast.
• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted asparagus or broccoli for extra veggies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dish and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stovetop, adding a bit more cream or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.

Q: Can I use frozen gnocchi?
Yes, just be sure to thaw the gnocchi before adding it to the skillet.

Q: How can I make this gluten-free?
Simply use gluten-free gnocchi, and check the other ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free.

Q: Can I add other seasonings?
Absolutely! Feel free to add a dash of red pepper flakes for heat or smoked paprika for a touch of smokiness.

Conclusion

This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a perfect dish for anyone craving a creamy, comforting, and flavor-packed meal. The combination of garlic, tender chicken, and Parmesan cheese creates a sauce that perfectly coats the gnocchi, giving every bite a rich, satisfying flavor. With minimal prep and one skillet, this recipe makes it easy to whip up a delicious dinner without a ton of dishes.

Feel free to customize the recipe with different vegetables, herbs, or proteins to make it your own. This is sure to become a family favorite—an easy go-to dish for busy weeknights, special occasions, or simply whenever you’re in the mood for something indulgent yet easy. Enjoy the flavors, and don’t forget to share this dish with those you love!

Yield: 4

Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe

Print

This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a delicious one-pan meal that combines tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a rich garlic cream sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this dish is packed with flavor and requires minimal cleanup. With a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s easy to make yet tastes gourmet. This recipe is versatile, too; you can add vegetables, experiment with herbs, or swap in gluten-free gnocchi.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Total Time 30 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 lb (16 oz) potato gnocchi
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Gnocchi:
   Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the gnocchi in a single layer and cook until golden and crisp on the outside, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
   
2. Cook the Chicken:
   Season the diced chicken with salt and pepper. Add the remaining olive oil to the skillet, followed by the chicken. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
   
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
   In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
   
4. Create the Cream Sauce:
   Reduce the heat to low, then add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Stir until the sauce is creamy and smooth, about 2 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if desired.
   
5. Combine Everything:
   Return the gnocchi and chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat with the sauce. Add the spinach (if using) and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach wilts and the sauce thickens slightly.
   
6. Serve and Garnish:
   Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve warm, and enjoy!

Notes

• Crispier Gnocchi: For even crispier gnocchi, don’t overcrowd the pan, and cook it in batches if necessary.
• Add Veggies: You can add other vegetables like cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra flavor.
• Parmesan Substitute: Asiago or Pecorino Romano cheese works well if you want a sharper flavor.