If you’re craving a hearty, cozy meal that feels like a warm hug on your plate, this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe is your new best friend. It combines tender, golden-browned chicken with pillowy gnocchi, all enveloped in a luscious, garlicky cream sauce dotted with vibrant cherry tomatoes and fresh spinach. This one-pan wonder is perfect for busy weeknights but still special enough to impress anyone lucky enough to share it with you. The flavors meld beautifully, delivering comfort and elegance in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe is a breeze thanks to its simple, straightforward ingredients. Each one plays a starring role, from the tender chicken that brings protein and texture, to the sun-kissed cherry tomatoes that add freshness and a pop of color, and the rich Parmesan cheese that rounds out the creamy sauce with its savory depth.
- Potato gnocchi: Soft and pillowy, they soak up the sauce beautifully and add a delightful chew.
- Olive oil: The perfect base for sautéing chicken, offering richness and a subtle fruity note.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Bite-sized pieces cook quickly and stay juicy throughout.
- Salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
- Black pepper: Adds just the right amount of mild heat and depth.
- Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that infuse the chicken with classic Italian flair.
- Garlic cloves: Minced fresh for aromatic, robust flavor that’s the heart of this recipe.
- Cherry tomatoes: Halved to release their sweet, juicy burst as they cook.
- Baby spinach: Adds vibrant green color and a mild, fresh taste that balances the richness.
- Heavy cream: Creates the luxuriously creamy sauce that ties everything together.
- Chicken broth: Lightens the cream just enough while boosting savory notes.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce for a nutty, salty finish.
- Butter: Enhances the garlic flavor and adds silkiness to the sauce.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who want to add a little gentle heat and complexity.
How to Make Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Cook the gnocchi
Start by boiling a pot of salted water and cooking the potato gnocchi according to the package instructions. This usually just takes a few minutes until they float to the surface. Drain the gnocchi and set them aside, ready to soak up all the amazing flavors later in the skillet.
Step 2: Sear the chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and season them generously with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sear the chicken for about 5 to 7 minutes until the pieces are beautifully golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside so you can build the sauce in the same pan.
Step 3: Sauté garlic and tomatoes
Add butter to the skillet, then toss in the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until the kitchen is filled with that irresistible garlicky aroma. Then add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook them for 2 minutes until they soften slightly and their sweetness starts to shine.
Step 4: Wilt the spinach
Next, toss in the baby spinach and cook just until it wilts, which only takes a minute or so. This quick step ensures the spinach stays vibrant but perfectly tender, adding freshness and a lovely green contrast to the creamy sauce.
Step 5: Simmer the sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring everything to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This is where the flavors start to meld into that silky, dreamy sauce that’s going to coat your gnocchi and chicken perfectly.
Step 6: Combine gnocchi and chicken
Return the cooked gnocchi and chicken to the skillet, folding them into the sauce to ensure every piece is luxuriously coated. This is the moment when all the components come together to form a harmonious, comforting dish.
Step 7: Finish with cheese and spices
Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the skillet, and if you’re using red pepper flakes, add them now for a subtle kick. Stir until the sauce thickens just slightly and the cheese melts into a glorious creamy finish. Your Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe is now ready to delight.
How to Serve Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of visual and flavor appeal, sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top. A handful of chopped fresh parsley or basil brightens the dish and adds a fresh herbal note that complements the garlic and cream beautifully.
Side Dishes
This skillet stands strong on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, consider a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some crusty garlic bread. Both options contrast the creamy skillet perfectly, adding crunch and acidity to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving this recipe family-style straight from the skillet brings warmth and invitation to the table. For a more elegant presentation, plate the gnocchi and chicken neatly in shallow bowls, garnished with a little Parmesan and fresh herbs. You can also pair it with roasted vegetables or a squeeze of lemon for an unexpected brightness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers of this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making it a convenient and satisfying next-day meal.
Freezing
This recipe is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze leftovers if needed. Place portions in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Keep in mind the texture of gnocchi may change slightly after freezing and thawing.
Reheating
When reheating, warm it gently on the stove over low heat while stirring occasionally. You can add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce and keep everything creamy. Microwaving works too, but stirring halfway through helps maintain even heat.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought gnocchi for this recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought gnocchi works perfectly and saves time. Just be sure to cook them until they float to the top before adding to your skillet for the best texture.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and consider adding sautéed mushrooms or extra vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to keep the dish hearty and flavorful.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter version, use half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less rich and creamy. For a dairy-free option, coconut cream or cashew cream can work well, though the flavor will be different.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe ahead of time?
You can cook the chicken and gnocchi in advance and refrigerate them separately. When ready to serve, prepare the sauce and combine everything quickly in the skillet for a fresh finish.
How spicy is it with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add just a mild, pleasant heat that enhances the dish without overpowering it. Feel free to adjust the amount to suit your spice preference or omit completely if you prefer no heat.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe is a wonderful blend of comfort and sophistication, perfect for any night you want something special without hours in the kitchen. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and soft gnocchi combine in a way that feels both indulgent and homey. I’m excited for you to try it and make it a go-to favorite in your kitchen too!
Print
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
Description
This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a creamy, comforting one-pan meal featuring tender chicken breast, pillowy potato gnocchi, fresh spinach, cherry tomatoes, and a rich garlic cream sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish combines simple ingredients with robust flavors, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that feels indulgent and satisfying.
Ingredients
Protein and Gnocchi
- 1 pound potato gnocchi
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Seasonings and Vegetables
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 1/2 cups baby spinach
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Liquids and Fats
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon butter
Cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the gnocchi: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain well and set aside to prevent overcooking.
- Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken pieces, season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning, then cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté garlic: In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until the garlic becomes fragrant but not browned, which will infuse the base flavor for the sauce.
- Cook tomatoes: Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 2 minutes until they soften slightly, releasing their juices.
- Add spinach: Stir in the baby spinach and cook until it wilts, mixing it well with the tomatoes and garlic.
- Create cream sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to start thickening.
- Combine gnocchi and chicken: Return the cooked gnocchi and chicken to the skillet. Stir everything together to coat all ingredients well in the creamy garlic sauce.
- Finish the sauce: Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and, if using, red pepper flakes. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly to a luscious consistency.
- Serve: Serve the skillet hot, optionally garnished with extra Parmesan cheese for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken breasts with thighs for a juicier texture if preferred.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to taste for desired level of spiciness or omit for a milder dish.
- Using fresh baby spinach adds vibrant color and nutrients, but you can replace it with kale or arugula if desired.
- Be careful not to overcook the gnocchi during boiling, as they will continue cooking in the skillet.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, noting the sauce will be less rich.
