Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe

There's nothing quite like the combination of tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a rich, garlicky sauce to create the ultimate comfort meal. This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is the perfect weeknight dinner, coming together in just 30 minutes with minimal cleanup.

this Recipe

I first discovered this dish while looking for an easy one-pan meal that would satisfy my family's love for creamy, flavorful dinners. After a few tweaks, it quickly became a household staple, perfect for busy evenings when we crave something warm and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You'll Love This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Get ready to fall in love with this effortless and delicious skillet meal. This recipe checks all the boxes for a perfect weeknight dinner.

First, it’s incredibly quick and easy to make. With just one pan and 30 minutes, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal ready to serve, making it ideal for those hectic nights when time is tight.

Second, the flavors are rich and satisfying. The garlic-infused creamy sauce perfectly coats the gnocchi and chicken, creating a luxurious bite every time. The combination of Parmesan cheese and heavy cream brings everything together for an indulgent, yet balanced taste.

Another reason to love this dish is that it’s budget-friendly. Using store-bought gnocchi and simple pantry staples, you can create a gourmet meal without breaking the bank.

Lastly, this recipe is highly versatile. You can swap out the protein, add in your favorite veggies, or adjust the seasonings to suit your preferences. It’s a great base recipe that you can tweak to your liking.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each component plays a key role in bringing the dish together.

Chicken is the heart of this dish. I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken breasts because they cook quickly and absorb the garlicky sauce beautifully. However, chicken thighs work just as well if you prefer a juicier bite.

The gnocchi is what makes this dish truly comforting. Store-bought potato gnocchi works perfectly and saves time, but if you have homemade gnocchi on hand, it will elevate the dish even further.

For the sauce, garlic is the star. Freshly minced garlic is best, as it releases a deep, aromatic flavor that complements the creaminess of the dish. Don’t skimp on this ingredient—it truly makes a difference!

Heavy cream and Parmesan cheese create the rich, creamy base of the sauce. The Parmesan adds a salty depth that enhances the overall flavor. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half, though the sauce may be slightly less thick.

Lastly, a touch of spinach not only adds color but also brings a mild, earthy balance to the richness of the dish. It wilts quickly in the hot sauce, making it an effortless way to sneak in some greens.

How To Make This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Creating this dish is as simple as it gets, with just a few easy steps to follow.

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat and adding a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked. Remove it from the skillet and set it aside.

In the same skillet, melt a tablespoon of butter and add the minced garlic. Let it cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, making sure not to burn it. Stir in the gnocchi, allowing it to toast slightly, which enhances its texture and flavor.

Next, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat and let it cook for about 5 minutes. The gnocchi will soften and absorb some of the delicious sauce.

Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet along with the grated Parmesan cheese and fresh spinach. Stir well, allowing the cheese to melt and the spinach to wilt. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Let the dish sit for a minute to allow the flavors to meld before serving. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a creamy, garlicky, and satisfying dinner ready to enjoy!

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen over time, making the dish just as delicious when reheated.

To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to bring back the creamy consistency. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring between each to ensure even heating.

I don’t recommend freezing this dish, as the creamy sauce can separate, and the gnocchi may become too soft upon thawing.

Variations and Substitutions

This dish is incredibly adaptable, so feel free to make it your own!

For a lighter version, swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or a mixture of milk and a little cornstarch to achieve a similar consistency.

Looking to add more protein? Try substituting the chicken with shrimp, Italian sausage, or even tofu for a vegetarian-friendly option.

To add more vegetables, toss in mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or roasted red peppers along with the spinach. These additions bring extra texture and flavor to the dish.

Want an extra garlicky kick? Roast a few whole cloves of garlic and mash them into the sauce for a deeper, sweeter garlic flavor.

With so many ways to customize this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet, it’s a recipe that will never get boring. Give it a try tonight and let it become a new favorite in your home!

Print