If you’re searching for a cozy, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe. It brings together tender chicken pieces, pillowy gnocchi, and a luscious, garlicky cream sauce all cooked in one skillet for easy cleanup and maximum flavor. This dish delivers a beautiful balance of creamy richness, savory herbs, and fresh garlic that will quickly become a staple in your dinner rotation. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining friends, this skillet recipe is irresistible, quick, and downright satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the secret to unlocking the full potential of this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe. Each component plays a key role, from creating the creamy sauce to adding savory depth and vibrant color. These simple essentials come together beautifully to make a dish that’s as approachable as it is impressive.
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced: Tender protein that soaks up all the flavors beautifully.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Essential for browning the chicken and adding a fruity base to the skillet.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds the signature punch of aromatic, garlicky goodness.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the luscious, silky sauce that envelops every bite.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Balances the richness and adds subtle savory notes.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated: Brings sharp, nutty flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: Infuses the dish with fragrant and earthy herbs like oregano and basil.
- 1 lb gnocchi, cooked: Soft, pillowy dumplings perfectly suited to soaking up the sauce.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances and balances every flavor in the skillet.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a bright pop of color and fresh herbal notes.
How to Make Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add your diced chicken evenly across the pan. Cook for about 6 to 7 minutes until each piece turns golden brown and is cooked through. The browning adds both flavor and texture, making the chicken incredibly savory. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside so you can focus on building the sauce in the same skillet.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Next, toss the minced garlic into the skillet. Since garlic burns quickly, keep a close eye and stir it continuously for just 1 to 2 minutes until you smell that wonderful, fragrant aroma. This quick sauté unlocks the garlic’s sweet and pungent flavor, which forms the heart of the skillet’s sauce.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
Pour the heavy cream and chicken broth right into the skillet with the sautéed garlic. Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Once simmering, add the grated Parmesan cheese and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir continuously until the cheese melts completely and the sauce thickens to a velvety consistency. This sauce is where all the flavors meld, turning simple ingredients into something richly satisfying.
Step 4: Combine the Chicken and Gnocchi
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and then fold in the cooked gnocchi. Stir everything together carefully so that the gnocchi and chicken are evenly coated with the creamy sauce. Let the skillet cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the gnocchi to soak up the sauce and heat through perfectly. This final co-mingling brings every element together before serving.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Just before serving, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top. This simple garnish not only adds a burst of vibrant green color but also injects a lovely fresh herbal note that brightens the richness of the dish. Your Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe is now ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
While fresh parsley is a classic garnish, you can also sprinkle some extra Parmesan or even a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. A drizzle of good quality olive oil adds a silky finish, and some lemon zest can brighten the flavors if you want a citrus twist. Garnishes are your friend here to give the dish a personal touch.
Side Dishes
This skillet packs a punch on its own but pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or lightly roasted vegetables. Steamed asparagus or garlic green beans bring texture contrast and freshness. For bread lovers, crusty garlic bread works beautifully to mop up that irresistible sauce. Think balance with freshness or crunch to complement the creamy gnocchi and flavorful chicken.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe family-style right from the pan for a cozy, communal vibe. For an elevated presentation, plate individual servings and garnish with a sprig of fresh parsley and a small Parmesan crisp on top. You can also arrange the gnocchi on a rustic wooden board surrounded by small bowls of complementary sides and garnishes to make it an inviting centerpiece at any dinner.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers from your Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 3 days, making it a perfect choice for meal prep or a next-day quick dinner. The flavors may even deepen after resting overnight, which is always a pleasant surprise.
Freezing
Freezing this dish is possible but with a little care. Since gnocchi can become softer after freezing and reheating, it’s best to undercook it slightly before combining or freeze the sauce and chicken separately if you want to keep the best texture. When frozen properly in airtight containers, it will last for up to 2 months.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the skillet leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often to prevent the sauce from separating. Adding a splash of chicken broth or cream can restore creaminess if needed. Avoid using a microwave for the best texture, especially for the gnocchi, which can become a little gummy when reheated too quickly.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought gnocchi for this recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought gnocchi works wonderfully and is super convenient. Just be sure to cook it according to the package instructions before adding it to the skillet. This keeps the texture perfect and prevents it from becoming mushy.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter option, half-and-half mixed with a touch of cornstarch can work, though the sauce won’t be quite as rich. Coconut milk is another alternative if you’re open to a slight change in flavor and want a dairy-free version.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! Swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The creamy sauce remains just as delicious.
How spicy is the Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe?
This recipe is mild and creamy by nature. If you prefer a little heat, adding crushed red pepper flakes during the sauce-making step is a great way to spice things up without overwhelming the dish.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe in advance?
Yes! You can dice the chicken and mince the garlic ahead of time. Even cooking the gnocchi in advance saves time when you’re ready to make the dish. Just keep all components refrigerated until you’re ready to assemble and cook everything together.
Final Thoughts
Nothing quite beats the ease and cozy satisfaction of the Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a special treat but comes together effortlessly on a busy weeknight. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this comforting skillet as much as I do—it’s sure to become a beloved favorite at your table!
Print
Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This creamy garlic chicken gnocchi skillet is a comforting and flavorful one-pan meal featuring tender chicken breast, pillowy gnocchi, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce infused with garlic and Italian seasonings. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that feels indulgent yet simple to make.
Ingredients
Chicken and Cooking Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Other Ingredients
- 1 lb gnocchi, cooked
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
- Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine the Chicken and Gnocchi: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the cooked gnocchi and stir everything together. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the gnocchi is heated through and well coated in the creamy sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Be sure to cook the gnocchi separately according to package instructions before adding it to the skillet.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or use less cheese.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and enhances the sauce flavor.
- You can add spinach or mushrooms in step 3 for added veggies.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, adding more salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
