Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a simple and tasty one-pan meal that brings together tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a garlicky sauce that’s full of flavor. The skillet cooks everything just right, so the gnocchi get a little golden and the chicken stays juicy. It’s a dish that feels cozy and satisfying without a lot of fuss.
I love making this when I want something comforting but don’t want to spend forever in the kitchen. Using store-bought gnocchi keeps it quick, and the garlic really makes the whole dish shine. I always add a little spinach or some parmesan on top to brighten things up and make it even more delicious.
It’s great for weeknight dinners because it all cooks together in one pan, which means less cleanup and more time to relax. I usually serve it with a side salad or some steamed veggies. Every time I make this, I get compliments, and it often disappears faster than I expect!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts gives you tender, juicy pieces that cook quickly. If you prefer, thighs work well too and add a bit more flavor and moisture.
Gnocchi: Store-bought gnocchi saves time and works great here. If you can’t find it, potato gnocchi can be swapped with small pasta like gnocchetti or even tortellini.
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce rich and creamy. For a lighter option, try half-and-half or coconut milk, but the sauce will be less thick.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a sharp, salty flavor and helps thicken the sauce. Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano are good substitutes if you have them.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds color and nutrition. You can use baby kale or Swiss chard as alternatives, just cook them a bit longer as they’re tougher.
How Do I Prevent the Gnocchi from Sticking or Getting Mushy in the Skillet?
Gnocchi can be tricky because they’re soft and can stick or become mushy. Here’s what helps:
- Start by lightly frying the gnocchi in the skillet until golden. This creates a bit of a crust and adds texture.
- Use medium heat so the gnocchi stays firm and doesn’t fall apart.
- Add the liquids slowly and keep stirring gently to prevent sticking at the bottom.
- A non-stick skillet or well-seasoned cast iron works best for easy cooking and cleanup.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet or frying pan – I like a non-stick one to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Knife and cutting board – for chopping garlic, spinach, and chicken into even pieces.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to keep the ingredients in the right amounts.
- Stirring spoon or spatula – for mixing everything together smoothly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use different proteins: Swap chicken for shrimp or turkey for a different twist in flavor and texture.
- Cheese options: Mix in mozzarella or crumbled feta for a different cheesy experience.
- Add vegetables: Stir in roasted bell peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms to boost flavor and nutrients.
- Spicy kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
How to Make Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb (450g) potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation time and roughly 20 minutes to cook, making it a quick and satisfying meal you can enjoy in about 30 minutes total.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season them with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning. Cook until the chicken is nicely browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Sauté Garlic and Cook Gnocchi:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the gnocchi and cook, stirring occasionally, for 2-3 minutes or until the gnocchi starts to turn a light golden color.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the mixture come to a gentle simmer. Next, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and the remaining Italian seasoning. Keep stirring frequently, cooking for another 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the gnocchi perfectly.
4. Finish the Skillet:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the chopped spinach. Stir everything together and cook for 1-2 more minutes until the spinach wilts. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle fresh parsley or basil and extra Parmesan cheese on top if you like. Serve warm and enjoy your creamy, garlicky chicken gnocchi skillet!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the chicken completely before cooking. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the cold water method by placing the sealed chicken in cold water for a few hours. Pat it dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
Can I Substitute the Gnocchi with Pasta?
Absolutely! Small pasta like gnocchetti, tortellini, or even penne work well as alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time based on the pasta’s packaging instructions and make sure to cook it until al dente before adding to the sauce.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to keep the sauce creamy and prevent it from separating.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! Use coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative instead of heavy cream, and substitute Parmesan with a dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
