If you’re searching for a quick weeknight meal that absolutely wows with flavor and comfort, then look no further than this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet. This dish checks all the boxes: juicy seared chicken, pillowy-soft gnocchi, a luscious garlic cream sauce, and bright flecks of spinach all come together in just one pan. The result is a cozy, crowd-pleasing dinner that tastes restaurant-worthy, with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients, each of which plays a vital role: the chicken adds heartiness, the gnocchi brings pillowy texture, and the savory cream sauce marries it all together. Here’s what you’ll need, plus tips to make every bite shine:
- Chicken breasts: Use boneless, skinless chicken cut into bite-sized pieces for quick, even cooking and juicy texture.
- Olive oil: Adds rich, subtle flavor and is perfect for searing chicken to a golden brown.
- Butter: Combines with the oil to give the gnocchi a gorgeously crisp, golden edge.
- Potato gnocchi: Shelf-stable or refrigerated gnocchi creates that soft, tender bite that soaks up every bit of sauce.
- Garlic cloves: Freshly minced garlic is essential for building the deep, savory backbone of the sauce.
- Chicken broth: Adds welcome depth to the sauce, keeping it from tasting too heavy.
- Heavy cream: Gives the sauce its creamy richness and beautiful clingy texture.
- Parmesan cheese: Stirred in to melt, Parmesan brings salty, nutty balance to the creaminess.
- Baby spinach: Fresh spinach wilts down, adding color and a dose of greens that pairs so well with the garlicky cream sauce.
- Dried Italian seasoning: Delivers subtle herby notes to tie all the flavors together.
- Salt and pepper: Always season to taste, both while cooking and before serving.
- Red pepper flakes & parsley (optional): For garnish, a kick of heat and a pop of color always elevate the presentation.
How to Make Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet
Step 1: Sear and Season the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss your chicken pieces in salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, making sure they’re evenly coated. Add them to the hot skillet in a single layer—let them sizzle undisturbed for a couple of minutes to develop that irresistible golden crust. After about 5–6 minutes, when the chicken is cooked through and beautifully browned, transfer it to a plate and set aside. This first step builds an essential layer of flavor for the whole Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet.
Step 2: Toast the Gnocchi
In the same skillet (don’t wipe out those tasty browned bits!), lower the heat to medium and melt the butter. Add the gnocchi, arranging them as much as possible in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for 3–4 minutes so they get lightly golden and ever-so-crispy on the outside while staying pillowy inside. That extra toasting makes a world of difference in both taste and texture.
Step 3: Build the Garlic Cream Sauce
Stir in your fresh minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds—just until it’s fragrant and fills your kitchen with that unbeatable aroma. Quickly pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Let the sauce come to a gentle simmer for about 4–5 minutes. As it bubbles, the sauce will thicken slightly and the gnocchi will finish cooking through, soaking up all that creamy, garlicky flavor.
Step 4: Finish with Cheese, Greens, and Chicken
Lower the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce, becoming deliciously silky. Add in your baby spinach and the reserved cooked chicken. Gently fold everything together until the spinach wilts and every piece is luxuriously coated. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes if you crave a little heat. Your Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is ready to shine!
How to Serve Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet
Garnishes
The finishing touches are what make the Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet really special. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan, a shower of freshly chopped parsley, and a pinch of red pepper flakes add vibrant color, freshness, and a gentle spice. These little extras turn a simple skillet dinner into something you’ll be proud to share at the table.
Side Dishes
This creamy skillet is a one-pan meal all on its own, but a crisp green salad or a slice of garlicky bread makes it even better. If you’re feeding a hungry crowd, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or a drizzle of balsamic-glazed tomatoes for a burst of acidity that balances the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
The Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is impressive served straight from the pan, family-style. For a more elevated dinner, spoon it into shallow bowls and top each portion with a perfect nest of baby spinach and a generous dusting of cheese. For a potluck or party, portion the skillet into small ramekins for individual servings—a surefire way to wow your guests!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet keeps beautifully! Allow the dish to cool, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually develop even more overnight, making for a delicious next-day treat.
Freezing
If you need to freeze this dish, let it cool completely and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Keep in mind the sauce may separate a little upon thawing, but a quick stir while reheating will bring it back together nicely. It’s smart to freeze in individual portions for easy grab-and-go lunches!
Reheating
Reheat the Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to revive the sauce’s creamy texture. Microwave reheating works too—just cover loosely, heat in short bursts, and stir often so the gnocchi stay tender and the sauce doesn’t overcook.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken?
Absolutely! This shortcut saves even more time on busy nights. Simply shred or dice the rotisserie chicken and stir it in at the end with the spinach. It’s a fantastic way to get dinner on the table fast with all the flavor of the original Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, just swap in your favorite gluten-free gnocchi (many stores carry it in the refrigerated section). Double-check labels on your chicken broth and seasonings as well to ensure your entire Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is safe for gluten-sensitive diners.
What can I use instead of spinach?
You can easily substitute chopped kale or Swiss chard for spinach. Just keep in mind that kale may need a minute or two longer to wilt, but both options add a lovely green touch and pair well with the garlic cream sauce.
Can I use a different cheese if I don’t have Parmesan?
While Parmesan lends the best flavor and texture, you can use Pecorino Romano or even Asiago for a similar salty bite. Avoid soft cheeses, which won’t melt into the sauce as smoothly for this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet.
Are there dairy-free alternatives for the cream and cheese?
Definitely! For a dairy-free version, substitute canned coconut cream for the heavy cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan. The sauce won’t taste coconutty thanks to the savory garlic and chicken broth, making it a delicious alternative for anyone avoiding dairy.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving something comforting yet elegant, the Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is it. This recipe is truly the best of all worlds—creamy, garlicky, loaded with flavor, and all in just one pan. Give it a try, share it with loved ones, and don’t be surprised when it becomes a regular feature on your dinner table!
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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
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a delightful one-pan meal that combines tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. It’s a satisfying and flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Gnocchi:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 (16 oz) package shelf-stable or refrigerated potato gnocchi
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups baby spinach
- Optional: red pepper flakes and fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sauté until browned. Set aside.
- Sauté Gnocchi: Melt butter in the skillet. Cook gnocchi until golden. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Simmer until thickened. Stir in Parmesan cheese.
- Finish the Dish: Add spinach and cooked chicken. Stir until spinach wilts. Adjust seasoning. Garnish and serve.
Notes
- You can substitute kale for spinach or use rotisserie chicken for quicker prep.
- For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream and nutritional yeast instead of cream and cheese.
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