Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet – Your New Favorite One-Pan Wonder! (Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe)

Name: Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
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 vegetarian); 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)

Get ready to indulge in a culinary hug with my Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet! This dish is the epitome of comfort food, featuring tender, juicy chicken enveloped in a luscious garlic sauce, all served atop soft, pillowy gnocchi that practically dances on your palate. Every bite is a blend of savory goodness that warms the heart and soul, making it the perfect meal for any night of the week. You’ll love how simple it is to whip up this one-pan delight, leaving you to savor each mouthful without the stress of cleanup!

Main dish photo — *The finished dish — looks amazing, right?*

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

– Big, Bold Flavors: The aromatic garlic and creamy sauce create a flavor explosion that will have you coming back for seconds!
– Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is ideal for family dinners or impressing guests; it has that wow factor!
– Flexible & Fast: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
– One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup means you can enjoy your delicious meal without the fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather the magic ingredients that make this Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet so irresistible! These ingredients not only create harmony in flavor but also make the cooking experience delightful and fun. The heavy cream is a flavor game-changer, ensuring that every scoop is rich and satisfying!

Another beautiful angle of the dish — *Just as gorgeous from this angle too!*

– 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)

*Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.*

Variations

The Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is wonderfully customizable! Here are fun variations to keep your meals fresh and exciting:

– Go Gluten-Free: Swap out regular gnocchi with gluten-free options available at your local store.
– Add Extra Protein: Toss in shrimp or cooked sausage for a protein-packed twist!
– Make it Spicier: Amp up the heat with additional red pepper flakes or fresh chopped jalapeños.
– Swap the Dressing: Use a flavorful alfredo sauce instead of the cream for a different creamy experience.
– Colorful Additions: Add vibrant veggies like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for a pop of color and extra nutrients.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Ready to bring this dish to life? Let’s get cooking with these simple steps:

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Gnocchi

In the same skillet, add the potato gnocchi, cooking them according to package instructions until they float to the top. This usually takes about 2-4 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

Step 4: Combine & Serve

Return the cooked chicken and gnocchi to the skillet, mixing everything together. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and creamy. If you’re using spinach or kale, toss it in at this stage and let it wilt slightly. Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired.

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

– Don’t Overcook the Gnocchi: They are perfect when they float to the top; overcooking can make them mushy.
– Customize Your Creaminess: Feel free to adjust the amount of heavy cream based on how rich you want the dish to be!
– Add Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil or parsley makes a gorgeous and flavorful garnish—don’t skip it!
– Use Quality Cheese: A good-quality Parmesan really enhances the flavor of the sauce.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Garnishes

Brighten up your dish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil, or even a sprinkle of lemon zest for a refreshing zing!

Side Dishes

Pair this dish with a simple arugula salad drizzled in olive oil and lemon, or some crusty garlic bread to soak up that delicious sauce!

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet in individual bowls or cast-iron skillets for a rustic, charming presentation that’s sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—if there’s any left!

Freezing

This dish doesn’t freeze well due to the cream; it’s best enjoyed fresh for the ultimate taste experience!

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to bring back its creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap gnocchi for any pasta shape you have on hand.

Is this recipe spicy?
It’s not inherently spicy, but you can easily add red pepper flakes or more garlic for heat.

Can I prepare this in advance?
While it’s best fresh, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time and cook just before serving.

How do I make this gluten-free?
Simply use gluten-free gnocchi, and check that your broth and other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Final Thoughts

Now that you’ve discovered the delightful world of Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet, you’re ready to whisk up this creamy, comforting dish that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Its rich flavors, quick prep time, and one-pan convenience make it a fabulous choice for any occasion. So roll up those sleeves, and let’s get cooking—you’ve got this! Enjoy every delicious bite!