If you’re craving a meal that’s cozy, rich, and bursts with fresh flavors, look no further than this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe. It’s a comforting one-pan wonder where tender chicken pieces meet pillowy gnocchi, all enveloped in a luscious garlic-infused cream sauce with bright pops of cherry tomatoes and vibrant spinach. This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an absolute weeknight winner that feels indulgent without the fuss. Trust me, once you try this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe, it’ll become a staple in your dinner rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe starts with straightforward, easy-to-find ingredients that each bring their own special touch. From the soft gnocchi to the fragrant garlic and creamy Parmesan, every element plays a vital role in building layers of texture, flavor, and color that make this dish unforgettable.
- Potato gnocchi: These little pillows provide the perfect chewy texture and soak up the sauce beautifully.
- Olive oil: Adds a silky base to brown the chicken and enrich the pan sauce.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein that cooks quickly and stays tender when cut bite-sized.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasoning that enhances all the ingredients’ natural flavors.
- Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that gives the chicken a subtle Mediterranean flair.
- Minced garlic: Provides the vibrant, savory punch that defines this skillet recipe.
- Cherry tomatoes: Bright and slightly sweet, they soften to add a juicy burst of freshness.
- Baby spinach: Offers color and nutrients while wilting down perfectly in the sauce.
- Heavy cream: Creates a rich, velvety base that ties all the flavors together.
- Chicken broth: Adds depth and balances the creaminess without overpowering it.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce, boosting savory umami notes with every bite.
- Butter: Adds a luscious finish when sautéed with garlic, enhancing aroma and mouthfeel.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a subtle spicy kick to elevate the dish.
How to Make Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Gnocchi
Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil and cooking the potato gnocchi according to the package directions. This step is quick and crucial because perfectly cooked gnocchi are the tender base of this skillet. Once cooked, drain them well and set them aside to await their creamy, garlicky destiny.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then toss in the bite-sized chicken pieces seasoned with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sear the chicken until it’s golden brown and fully cooked, which takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Removing the chicken afterward helps prevent overcooking while you build the sauce.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic and Tomatoes
In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic, cooking just until fragrant — about 30 seconds. Immediately add the halved cherry tomatoes and let them soften for 2 minutes. This step unlocks a wonderful aroma and brings a subtle sweetness that balances the creamy sauce perfectly.
Step 4: Wilt the Spinach
Add the baby spinach to the skillet, stirring it until it wilts down completely. This quick wilt not only adds a nutritious punch but also creates lovely bright green color throughout the dish, making it as beautiful as it is delicious.
Step 5: Build the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine all the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This gradual warming allows the cream and broth to meld with the garlic, tomatoes, and spinach, forming a rich, inviting base for your gnocchi and chicken.
Step 6: Combine Gnocchi, Chicken, and Sauce
Return the cooked gnocchi and chicken to the skillet, stirring carefully to coat every piece in the luscious sauce. This is the moment when all the components come together, soaking up flavors for a unified, comforting dish.
Step 7: Finish with Parmesan and Spice
Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and, if you like a little heat, the red pepper flakes. Stir gently until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly, resulting in a rich, creamy coating that clings to the gnocchi and chicken beautifully.
Step 8: Serve Warm
Serve your Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet hot from the pan, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired. The first bite will reward you with a perfect blend of creamy, garlicky, savory goodness with hints of sweetness and spice.
How to Serve Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese brightens up the dish visually and adds an extra layer of savory richness. Fresh basil or chopped parsley can also bring a lovely pop of color and freshness that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
Side Dishes
This skillet meal shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables to bring texture contrast and freshness. Garlic bread or crusty artisan bread is perfect for soaking up every last bit of that delicious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a bit of flair, serve your Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet in rustic cast iron skillets straight to the table, giving it a cozy, homestyle appeal. You can also garnish with a drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the creaminess at the last minute.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. It keeps well thanks to the richness of the cream sauce and the tender chicken, making for delicious next-day meals.
Freezing
If you want to save some for longer, freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just be aware that gnocchi may slightly change texture after freezing and reheating, but the flavors will remain comforting and satisfying.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce becomes too thick. This helps maintain the creamy consistency and keeps the chicken juicy without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen gnocchi works perfectly. Just cook according to package instructions; sometimes frozen gnocchi requires an extra minute or two, but the cooking process remains the same.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can substitute half-and-half mixed with a bit of butter to mimic the richness, or use full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Just keep in mind the flavor profile will vary slightly.
Is this dish spicy?
The recipe includes optional red pepper flakes to add a subtle kick, but if you prefer no heat, simply leave them out. The dish is flavorful and aromatic without being spicy.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Definitely! Chicken thighs add a deeper flavor and tend to stay juicier during cooking. Adjust cooking times slightly if pieces are larger, but overall it’s a delicious alternative.
How do I prevent the gnocchi from sticking together?
Cooking gnocchi in plenty of boiling salted water and stirring gently while they cook helps prevent sticking. Once drained, tossing them with a little olive oil before adding to your skillet also keeps them separate and tender.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a dish that is both effortless and satisfying, and this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe delivers exactly that. The combination of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and delicate gnocchi comes together to create an inviting meal that feels like a warm hug. If you want a guaranteed way to impress family or soothe a busy weeknight, give this recipe a try—you won’t regret it!
Print
Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a creamy, flavorful one-pan dish combining tender chicken, pillowy potato gnocchi, fresh spinach, and cherry tomatoes in a rich garlic Parmesan sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s an easy and comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Protein and Base
- 1 pound potato gnocchi
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Seasonings and Oil
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Vegetables
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 1/2 cups baby spinach
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions
- Cook Gnocchi: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the potato gnocchi according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the gnocchi and set it aside to be added later.
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces, seasoning them with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until aromatic but not browned.
- Cook Tomatoes: Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 2 minutes until they soften slightly, releasing their juices.
- Wilt Spinach: Stir in the baby spinach and cook until it just wilts down, integrating with the tomatoes and garlic.
- Create Sauce: Pour the heavy cream and chicken broth into the skillet, stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to begin thickening the sauce.
- Combine Gnocchi and Chicken: Return the cooked gnocchi and chicken to the skillet. Stir everything together so the gnocchi and chicken are coated evenly by the creamy sauce.
- Add Cheese and Seasoning: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and optional red pepper flakes over the skillet contents. Stir until the sauce thickens slightly and the cheese melts into the sauce.
- Serve: Serve the dish hot, optionally garnished with extra Parmesan cheese for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Be careful not to overcook the gnocchi during boiling to avoid them becoming mushy.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes based on your preferred spice level or omit if you prefer a milder dish.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, but the sauce may be less thick and creamy.
- Make sure to deglaze the pan lightly after cooking chicken so that the bits stuck to the skillet flavor the sauce.
- Use fresh Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and melting quality.
