Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and comforting dinner, this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is exactly what you need. Creamy, packed with garlic flavor, tender chicken, and pillowy gnocchi all come together in one pan, making it a perfect meal for busy weeknights or anytime you crave something hearty yet simple. This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings bold taste without a fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan wonder: Everything cooks together in one skillet, saving you time and cleanup.
• Rich and creamy flavor: Garlic-infused sauce and melted cheese make every bite irresistible.
• Quick and easy preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
• Comfort food elevated: Gnocchi provides a tender, pillowy texture that’s a fresh twist on classic pasta dishes.
• Customizable: Easily adjust ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences without losing flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each one adds its own magic—from garlicky notes to creamy richness and vibrant color—that comes together in a harmony of flavor and texture.

• Chicken breasts or thighs: Provides tender, juicy protein that soaks up the garlicky sauce perfectly.
• Gnocchi: Soft, pillow-like dumplings that absorb flavors wonderfully and add a delightful chew.
• Garlic cloves: Fresh garlic packs the punch that makes this dish truly unforgettable.
• Heavy cream or half-and-half: Creates a luxuriously creamy sauce that coats the gnocchi and chicken beautifully.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
• Spinach or kale: A pop of green that adds freshness and depth to the skillet.
• Olive oil or butter: For sautéing chicken and garlic, infusing the dish with rich flavor.
• Salt, pepper, and Italian herbs: Basic seasonings that elevate every ingredient.

Variations for Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

This recipe is incredibly flexible. Feel free to personalize it based on what you have on hand or your favorite flavors. Changing up ingredients is simple and keeps this dish exciting every time you make it.

• Vegetarian version: Swap chicken for mushrooms or tofu for a satisfying meat-free meal.
• Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to bring some heat to the creamy sauce.
• Extra veggies: Toss in bell peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or zucchini for additional color and texture.
• Dairy-free option: Use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream substitute and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
• Cheesy upgrade: Mix in mozzarella or goat cheese for a gooey, cheesy profile.

How to Make Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat, then sear the chicken until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Spinach

In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed and sauté minced garlic until fragrant but not browned. Add spinach or kale and cook until wilted, stirring frequently to combine the flavors.

Step 3: Cook the Gnocchi

Add packaged gnocchi directly to the skillet and cook according to package instructions until they start to turn golden and tender, usually around 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle in Parmesan cheese, stirring to melt and create a thick, creamy sauce. Season with Italian herbs, salt, and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and gently toss everything together until coated in the sauce and heated through. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

• Use fresh garlic: Fresh garlic will give you a more vibrant, aromatic punch than pre-minced or powder.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to get a nice sear and avoid steaming.
• Toast the gnocchi: Let the gnocchi get golden brown on the edges before adding the sauce for added texture.
• Keep sauce creamy: Stir gently and avoid boiling after adding cream to prevent curdling.
• Fresh herbs matter: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a bright finish.

How to Serve Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Garnishes

Sprinkle chopped parsley, fresh basil, or additional grated Parmesan on top to add a fresh aroma and enhance flavor. A light drizzle of olive oil or a few chili flakes can also brighten the dish visually and taste-wise.

Side Dishes

Pair your Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to add freshness and balance. Garlic bread or crusty French bread are perfect for sopping up extra sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in rustic cast iron skillets for a charming presentation that keeps the dish warm. Alternatively, plate individual servings decorated with colorful microgreens or edible flowers for an elegant touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making it just as delicious the next day.

Freezing

Freeze in portions by transferring cooled leftovers into freezer-safe bags or containers. Use within 2 months for best quality. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of cream or water to bring back the sauce’s creaminess. Microwave reheating works well but may require stirring halfway through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?

Yes! Frozen gnocchi works great; just add a couple extra minutes to cooking time and cook until tender and slightly golden.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half or a combination of milk and cream cheese for a similar creamy texture and flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for low-carb diets?

Gnocchi is usually made from potatoes, which are higher in carbs. For a low-carb alternative, substitute gnocchi with cauliflower gnocchi or spiralized vegetables.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

While best served fresh, you can pre-cook chicken and prepare the sauce separately; combine and cook the gnocchi just before serving for a quick assembly.

How do I make the dish spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when cooking the garlic or stirring the sauce to introduce heat gradually.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a wonderful blend of creamy, garlicky goodness with tender chicken and soft gnocchi, perfect for any night of the week. It’s easy to whip up, packed with comforting flavors, and flexible enough to become your go-to recipe for cozy dinners. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite.

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