Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe

There's nothing quite like the combination of tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a rich garlic-infused sauce to make dinner feel special. This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a one-pan wonder that delivers restaurant-quality flavor in under 30 minutes.

this Recipe

I first made this dish on a cold winter night when I wanted something hearty but easy. The creamy garlic sauce, combined with the soft gnocchi and juicy chicken, was an instant hit. Now, it’s a staple in my home whenever I need a comforting meal with minimal effort.

Why You'll Love This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Get ready to fall in love with this simple yet luxurious dish. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal for a special occasion, this skillet has you covered.

First, it’s incredibly fast and easy. From start to finish, you’ll have this dish on the table in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

It’s also a one-pan meal, meaning fewer dishes to clean. Everything—chicken, gnocchi, and sauce—cooks in the same skillet, maximizing flavor while minimizing mess.

If you love rich and creamy sauces, this recipe is for you. The garlic-infused cream sauce coats every bite of gnocchi and chicken, creating a velvety, comforting texture.

Plus, it’s highly customizable. You can add vegetables, swap out the protein, or adjust the sauce to your taste. This recipe is flexible enough to suit any dietary preference.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this dish lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you need to make it shine.

Chicken breasts are the star protein in this dish. I like using boneless, skinless chicken breasts because they cook quickly and remain tender in the creamy sauce. If you prefer, chicken thighs work just as well for a richer taste.

Gnocchi is what makes this dish so special. These little potato dumplings absorb the sauce beautifully while maintaining their soft, pillowy texture. You can use shelf-stable, refrigerated, or even homemade gnocchi.

Garlic is the key flavor booster. Fresh garlic is best, as it provides a robust, aromatic depth to the sauce. If you’re in a pinch, pre-minced garlic can work, but fresh will always yield the best results.

Heavy cream creates the luxurious, velvety sauce. If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half, but the sauce won’t be as thick and rich.

For a finishing touch, Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty depth that balances the creaminess. Always opt for freshly grated Parmesan, as it melts more smoothly into the sauce.

How To Make This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Making this dish is easier than you think. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a restaurant-worthy meal ready in no time.

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and let it shimmer before adding diced chicken. Cook the chicken until golden brown on the outside and fully cooked inside, about 5-6 minutes. Remove it from the skillet and set it aside.

In the same pan, lower the heat and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds—be careful not to burn it! Stir in a splash of chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits for extra flavor.

Next, add the gnocchi directly into the skillet along with heavy cream. Let the gnocchi simmer gently, absorbing the creamy sauce and softening as it cooks. This takes about 5 minutes.

Once the gnocchi is tender, return the cooked chicken to the pan. Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce, creating a rich, creamy consistency.

Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and extra Parmesan on top. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

Storage Options

Leftovers? No problem! This dish stores well and reheats beautifully.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken as it sits, but you can loosen it up with a splash of cream or broth when reheating.

To reheat, simply warm it over medium heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also use the microwave, heating in 30-second increments and stirring between each round.

Freezing isn’t ideal for this dish, as the cream sauce may separate upon thawing. However, if you must freeze it, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months and reheat gently with added cream.

Variations and Substitutions

The beauty of this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is its versatility. Here are a few ways to change things up.

For a lighter version, swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or a mix of milk and broth. It won’t be as rich, but it will still be delicious.

Want to add some veggies? Spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms make excellent additions. Just stir them in during the last few minutes of cooking.

If you prefer a different protein, try shrimp or sausage instead of chicken. Both pair wonderfully with the creamy garlic sauce.

For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce for some heat.

Love cheese? Experiment with different types like mozzarella, gouda, or asiago for a unique twist on the classic flavor.

No matter how you customize it, this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is sure to become a go-to meal in your home. Enjoy!

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