Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

I’ve always been a sucker for cozy, one-pan meals that deliver big on flavor without a pile of dishes to tackle afterward. The first time I whipped up this garlic chicken gnocchi skillet, I was hooked—the pillowy gnocchi, tender chicken, and that rich, garlicky cream sauce had my family begging for seconds. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a busy weeknight, yet it’s fancy enough to impress guests.

What makes this recipe a keeper is how simple it is to pull together. With just a handful of ingredients and one skillet, you’re about 30 minutes away from a meal that’s bursting with savory goodness. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this dish is forgiving and fun to make. Let’s dive into this crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 lb (450g) potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken pieces dry with a paper towel. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. This gives the chicken a flavor boost right from the start.
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove to a plate and set aside.
3. Cook the Gnocchi: In the same skillet, add the gnocchi. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re lightly golden. No need to boil them first—straight to the pan works best!
4. Make the Sauce: Lower the heat to medium. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
5. Combine Everything: Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted. Add the spinach and cook until wilted, about 1 minute. Return the chicken to the skillet, tossing everything to coat in the creamy sauce.
6. Season and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When searing the chicken, give it space to brown properly. Crowding leads to steaming instead of that nice golden crust.
• Fresh Gnocchi is Key: If you can, grab fresh or vacuum-packed gnocchi from the refrigerated section—they cook faster and have a softer texture.
• Control the Sauce Thickness: If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of chicken broth. Too thin? Let it simmer a bit longer.
• Garlic Hack: Mince garlic right before cooking to maximize its flavor. Pre-minced garlic can lose its punch.

Variations

• Veggie Boost: Swap spinach for kale, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
• Protein Swap: Try shrimp or Italian sausage instead of chicken for a different twist.
• Lighten It Up: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a less rich sauce.
• Gluten-Free: Opt for gluten-free gnocchi if you’re avoiding gluten.

Storage Suggestions

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth to revive the sauce.
• Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating Tip: Avoid the microwave—it can make the gnocchi mushy. Use a skillet for best results.

How to Serve

This garlic chicken gnocchi skillet is a complete meal on its own, but you can elevate it with:

• A side of crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
• A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness.
• A glass of crisp white wine, like Pinot Grigio, to round out the meal.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 580 kcal
• Protein: 32g
• Fat: 34g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 820mg

Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.

FAQs

Can I use frozen gnocchi?
Yes, but thaw them first for even cooking. Frozen gnocchi can release extra water, so pat them dry before cooking.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Swap the heavy cream for coconut milk and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative. The flavor will change slightly but still be delicious.

How do I keep gnocchi from getting mushy?
Avoid boiling store-bought gnocchi before pan-frying. Cook them directly in the skillet for a nice texture.

Can I prep this ahead?
You can cook the chicken and chop the veggies in advance. Store them separately in the fridge and assemble when ready to cook.

Conclusion

This garlic chicken gnocchi skillet is your ticket to a quick, comforting meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and fluffy gnocchi, it’s a dish that feels indulgent but comes together with minimal fuss. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner with friends, it’s versatile enough to tweak to your liking. So, grab your skillet, toss in those ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat!