Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe

There's something undeniably comforting about a creamy, garlicky skillet dinner that comes together in under 30 minutes. This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is the perfect balance of rich, savory flavors and satisfying textures, all in one pan.

I first stumbled upon this recipe when I needed a quick yet indulgent meal after a long day. With tender bites of chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a luscious garlic cream sauce, this dish quickly became a family favorite. Now, it’s my go-to for busy weeknights when I want something that feels special without a ton of effort.

Why You'll Love This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Get ready to fall in love with this one-pan wonder. Not only is it packed with incredible flavor, but it also checks all the right boxes for an easy, satisfying meal.

First off, it's incredibly fast and easy. In just 25 minutes, you’ll have a creamy, garlicky dish ready to serve. Perfect for those nights when time is tight, but you still crave something homemade.

Minimal cleanup? Yes, please! Since everything cooks in one skillet, you’ll spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal.

This dish is also budget-friendly. Made with simple ingredients like chicken, gnocchi, and pantry staples, you can create a restaurant-quality meal without breaking the bank.

Best of all, it’s versatile. Want to add some spinach? Go for it. Need a dairy-free version? Swap out the cream for coconut milk. This recipe adapts beautifully to different dietary needs and preferences.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet lies in its simple, yet well-balanced ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating that irresistible, creamy texture and deep flavor.

Chicken: I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. However, chicken thighs work just as well, adding an extra juicy, rich flavor.

Gnocchi: Shelf-stable potato gnocchi is my go-to for this recipe because it cooks quickly and absorbs all the delicious flavors from the sauce. If you have fresh or homemade gnocchi, they’ll work beautifully too, but they may cook a little faster.

Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential to this dish. I use at least four cloves to ensure a robust, garlicky punch, but feel free to adjust to your taste.

Heavy Cream: This is what gives the sauce its velvety richness. If you prefer a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or even a splash of milk with a little cornstarch for thickening.

Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a salty, nutty depth to the sauce. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it doesn’t melt as smoothly.

You'll also need a large skillet to bring everything together seamlessly, ensuring even cooking and optimal flavor blending.

How To Make This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Creating this mouthwatering dish is easier than you might think. Let’s break it down step by step.

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a bit of olive oil, then toss in your bite-sized chicken pieces, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until they develop a golden-brown crust and are cooked through. Once done, remove them from the pan and set aside.

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add a bit more oil or butter. Stir in the minced garlic, letting it cook until fragrant—about 30 seconds. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can turn bitter.

Next, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the gnocchi, making sure they’re fully coated in the sauce. Let them cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and absorb the creamy goodness.

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together until the cheese melts, creating a luscious, silky sauce that clings to every bite.

Finally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little heat. Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting, garlicky deliciousness.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (though it’s hard to resist finishing it all in one sitting), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce and warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat. Avoid microwaving at high power, as it may cause the sauce to separate.

Freezing isn’t recommended, as the creamy sauce tends to break when thawed, but if you must freeze it, store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months and reheat slowly with added liquid.

Variations and Substitutions

The beauty of this dish is how adaptable it is. Here are a few ways to switch things up:

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and add mushrooms or chickpeas for a hearty, meat-free alternative.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan for a creamy, dairy-free twist.
• Add More Veggies: Stir in spinach, kale, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra texture and nutrition.
• Protein Swap: Try shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist, or use cooked sausage for a smoky, savory kick.

This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is truly a winner for busy weeknights, special occasions, or whenever you crave something creamy, garlicky, and utterly delicious. Give it a try and make it your own!

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