Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe

There’s something irresistible about a creamy, garlicky skillet meal that comes together in no time. This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is pure comfort food—tender bites of chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a rich, garlicky sauce that hugs every bite.

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I first made this on a chilly evening when I needed a quick, hearty meal that felt homemade. To my surprise, it became an instant family favorite, requested over and over again. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s easy enough for a weeknight but luxurious enough to impress guests.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Get ready to add a new go-to meal to your rotation. This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is packed with flavor and delivers big on convenience.

First, it’s incredibly quick and easy to make. In under 30 minutes, you can have a creamy, comforting dish on the table with minimal effort. Perfect for busy nights when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

It’s also a one-pan meal, which means fewer dishes to wash. Everything cooks in the same skillet, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully while making cleanup a breeze.

The flavor is out of this world. A buttery garlic sauce, juicy chicken, and soft gnocchi combine to create a dish that feels indulgent yet effortless. The sauce clings to the gnocchi, making every bite rich and satisfying.

And let’s not forget its versatility. You can swap in different proteins, add extra veggies, or tweak the sauce to fit your preferences. It’s the kind of recipe that never gets boring.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this dish is how simple ingredients come together to create something magical. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this recipe shine.

Gnocchi – Store-bought potato gnocchi is a great time-saver, cooking up soft and pillowy in just a few minutes. If you’re feeling ambitious, homemade gnocchi will take this dish to the next level.

Chicken – Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work beautifully here, staying tender while soaking up all the garlicky goodness. You can also use chicken thighs for a richer flavor.

Garlic – The star of the show! Fresh garlic is key for that bold, aromatic taste. If you love garlic as much as I do, feel free to add an extra clove or two.

Heavy cream & Chicken broth – This combination creates a velvety sauce that’s rich yet not too heavy. If you prefer a lighter version, you can swap in half-and-half or whole milk.

Parmesan cheese – Adds a nutty, salty depth to the sauce. Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and enhances the overall creaminess.

Spinach (optional) – A handful of fresh spinach adds color, nutrition, and a hint of earthiness. It wilts beautifully into the sauce without overpowering the dish.

You’ll also need a large skillet to bring everything together seamlessly. A nonstick or cast-iron skillet works best for even cooking.

How To Make This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

This recipe comes together in a few simple steps, making it perfect for any skill level.

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil, then toss in bite-sized pieces of chicken. Let them cook undisturbed for a few minutes until golden brown, then stir and cook through. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

In the same pan, melt butter and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it—garlic turns bitter quickly if overcooked.

Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add the gnocchi directly into the pan, stirring to coat. Let it cook for about 4-5 minutes until the gnocchi becomes soft and plump.

Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, creating a silky sauce that clings to the gnocchi. If you’re adding spinach, toss it in now and let it wilt into the sauce.

Finally, return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring everything together. Let it simmer for another minute to allow the flavors to meld. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

From start to finish, this dish takes about 25 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy nights.

Storage Options

This dish is so delicious, you might not have leftovers—but if you do, here’s how to store them.

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The gnocchi will absorb some of the sauce over time, so you may need to add a splash of broth or cream when reheating.

To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also use the microwave, heating in 30-second intervals and stirring in between to prevent uneven heating.

Freezing isn’t recommended, as the creamy sauce and gnocchi can become grainy when thawed. If you do freeze it, expect a slight change in texture.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are a few fun ways to switch things up.

Swap the protein – Try using shrimp, Italian sausage, or even rotisserie chicken for a different spin on this dish.

Make it vegetarian – Skip the chicken and add mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or extra spinach for a delicious meat-free version.

Add more veggies – Broccoli, peas, or roasted red peppers would all work beautifully in this dish, adding color and texture.

Spice it up – If you like heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce for a little kick.

Use a different cheese – While Parmesan is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with pecorino, mozzarella, or even a touch of blue cheese for a bolder flavor.

The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to make this dish your own. However you prepare it, one thing is certain—this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a meal you’ll come back to again and again. Enjoy!

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