Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe

Introduction

This Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a comforting and flavorful one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken and pillowy gnocchi are coated in a luscious garlic cream sauce, making every bite a delight.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 lb potato gnocchi (fresh or store-bought)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream (or dairy-free alternative)
• ½ cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil or unsalted butter
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 cup spinach or kale (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
2. Step 2: In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and the gnocchi. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gnocchi are golden. Remove and set aside.
3. Step 3: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, cooking for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
4. Step 4: Return the chicken and gnocchi to the skillet, tossing to coat everything in the sauce. Stir in the spinach or kale if using, and cook for 1-2 minutes until wilted.
5. Step 5: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan and fresh herbs if you like.

Tips & Variations

• For a vegetarian version, replace chicken with mushrooms or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Swap heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free option that still yields a rich sauce.
• Adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley enhances the freshness and color of the dish.
• If you prefer a crunch, sprinkle toasted pine nuts or breadcrumbs on top before serving.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?

Yes, frozen gnocchi works well. Cook them directly from frozen in the skillet, just add a couple of extra minutes to ensure they are heated through and nicely golden.

What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?

You can use Pecorino Romano or a vegan Parmesan alternative if you prefer. Nutritional yeast also works for a cheesy flavor in dairy-free versions.

Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 94 reviews

A rich and comforting Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet that combines tender chicken, pillowy potato gnocchi, and a luscious garlic Parmesan cream sauce. This one-pan meal is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, featuring simple ingredients and optional greens for a nutritious boost.

• Author: Emma
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken and Seasonings

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb potato gnocchi (fresh or store-bought)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream (or dairy-free alternative)
• ½ cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil or unsalted butter (divided)
• Red pepper flakes (optional)

Optional Add-ins

• 1 cup spinach or kale (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. Cook the Gnocchi: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the gnocchi and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they develop a golden crust on the outside. Remove the gnocchi from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, and cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken and gnocchi to the skillet, gently tossing to coat evenly with the creamy sauce. If using, stir in the spinach or kale, cooking for 1-2 minutes until the greens are wilted and tender.
5. Serve: Taste the dish and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes as desired. Serve the skillet hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if preferred.

Notes

• You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream for a dairy-free version.
• Vegetarian option: replace chicken with mushrooms or extra vegetables and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• For extra heat, add red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic or as topping.
• Fresh gnocchi cooks faster than frozen; adjust timing accordingly.
• Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keywords: Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi, One-Pot Meal, Garlic Parmesan Sauce, Comfort Food, Easy Dinner