Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe

If you crave a restaurant-quality meal that you can whip up in under 30 minutes, look no further than this Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet. Tender pieces of chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a silky garlic-Parmesan sauce come together in a single skillet, filling your kitchen with irresistible aromas. Whether you’re looking for the perfect weeknight comfort dinner or want a cozy dish to wow your friends and family, this one checks all the boxes for deliciousness and simplicity.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of making a Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is how a handful of humble, pantry staples transform into a creamy, satisfying meal. Each ingredient is here for good reason, lending unique flavors, rich textures, and a pop of color to every bite.

• Chicken breasts: Bite-sized pieces cook up quickly and soak in all that creamy garlic flavor—feel free to swap for chicken thighs if you like extra juiciness.
• Potato gnocchi: Deliciously chewy and quick to cook, gnocchi turn golden and crispy in the skillet for the best texture contrast.
• Garlic: The star of the show; fresh minced cloves infuse the sauce with aromatic depth you’ll crave in every forkful.
• Heavy cream: For the creamiest, dreamiest sauce—use a dairy-free alternative if needed for a lighter touch.
• Chicken broth: Adds flavor and helps create the luscious pan sauce; sub vegetable broth for a meat-free twist.
• Parmesan cheese: Savory and a little nutty, Parmesan melts right in for that unmistakable Italian finish.
• Olive oil (or butter): For sautéing the chicken and gnocchi to golden perfection with a kiss of richness.
• Italian seasoning: A beloved blend of herbs like oregano and basil, it makes the dish taste straight out of a trattoria.
• Spinach or kale: Optional, but sneaking in greens adds color, nutrients, and a fresh contrast to the creamy base.
• Salt and pepper: Don’t skip the basics—proper seasoning brings all the flavors together.
• Red pepper flakes: Completely optional, but a pinch gives a gentle kick to the final dish.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in your largest skillet over medium heat. Toss the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then let them sizzle in the pan for 6 to 7 minutes. You’ll want beautifully golden bits on all sides and juicy chicken throughout. When they’re just cooked through, scoop them out and keep them warm for later.

Step 2: Crisp the Gnocchi

Using the same skillet, add another swirl of olive oil and toss in your gnocchi. Give them a few undisturbed minutes so they can form that golden, slightly crisp exterior—it’s a total game-changer for texture! Once they’re lovely and bronzed, set them aside with the chicken (you can just pile them both up on a plate).

Step 3: Build the Creamy Garlic Sauce

Drop in the minced garlic and sauté for a minute or two until the whole kitchen smells amazing and the garlic is softened but not brown. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any little browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor. Next, stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Let it gently bubble for 2 to 3 minutes until thickened and oh-so-creamy.

Step 4: Combine and Wilt the Greens

Slide the golden gnocchi and chicken back into the skillet, tossing them through the creamy sauce so every piece gets a glorious coating. If you’re adding spinach or kale, throw it in now and cook for another minute or two—just until wilted and vibrant. A final stir and the Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is ready for the table!

Step 5: Taste and Serve

Give it a taste and adjust with more salt or a twist of pepper if you need. Serve your Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet piping hot, and don’t hesitate to shower the top with extra Parmesan, a sprinkle of herbs, or a dash of red pepper flakes to suit your mood.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Garnishes

A handful of freshly grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, or a few basil leaves gives your Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet a beautiful finish. If you love a bit of heat, try a tiny pinch of red pepper flakes. These garnishes add visual pop and extra bursts of flavor with each bite.

Side Dishes

While this skillet is satisfying on its own, it pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or garlicky roasted broccoli. Crusty bread is absolutely encouraged to mop up every bit of creamy sauce—trust me, you won’t want to waste a drop!

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet right out of the pan for that rustic, family-style feel, or spoon it into individual bowls for cozy dinner party vibes. Dress it up with a sprinkle of microgreens, or pile it high in a shallow bowl with a drizzle of good olive oil for a restaurant-worthy look.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool the leftovers completely, then transfer your Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet into an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or a no-fuss second dinner.

Freezing

For best texture, this dish is ideally enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it in a pinch. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Be aware that the sauce may separate a bit on thawing, but a good stir when reheating usually brings it back together.

Reheating

Gently reheat leftovers in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen up the sauce. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between to keep things creamy and prevent the gnocchi from getting rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought gnocchi, or does fresh work better?

Absolutely! Store-bought gnocchi makes this Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet weeknight-friendly and still delicious. Fresh gnocchi cooks a little faster but both versions turn golden and crisp nicely in the pan.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

A rich dairy-free alternative like coconut cream or a thick oat milk works in a pinch. The flavor and texture won’t be quite as indulgent, but you’ll still get a lovely, velvety sauce.

How do I make this vegetarian?

Swap out the chicken for pan-seared mushrooms or strips of zucchini, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet becomes a totally comforting meatless meal!

Can I add more veggies?

Definitely! Feel free to mix in sun-dried tomatoes, peas, or roasted red peppers along with the spinach or kale. Extra veggies add brightness and make the dish even more satisfying.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Yes, it keeps well and reheats beautifully. Store portions in individual containers for an easy grab-and-go lunch or dinner—the sauce keeps the gnocchi from drying out and everything tastes just as delicious the next day.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to dig into this Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet as I am every time I make it! It brings together so many of my favorite comfort flavors with hardly any fuss. Whether you’re making dinner for one or feeding a crowd, this skillet promises a creamy, garlicky, totally cozy meal that’s hard to beat.

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