If you’re craving a cozy, comforting meal that’s bursting with flavor, this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe is an absolute winner. Imagine tender, golden-browned chicken pieces nestled in pillowy gnocchi, all coated in a rich, garlicky cream sauce that brings everything together in perfect harmony. It’s one of those dishes that feels fancy enough for guests but is incredibly simple to whip up on any weeknight. Each bite offers a satisfying blend of creamy, savory, and herby notes that will have you reaching for seconds and sharing it with everyone you love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients that transform into something truly special. Each component plays a key role, from the tender chicken bringing heartiness, to the rich cream that makes the sauce irresistible, and the fresh parsley adding a pop of color and brightness.
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced: Provides lean protein and a tender bite perfect for this skillet dish.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Essential for sautéing the chicken to a golden perfection without sticking.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds bold, aromatic flavor that infuses the sauce with a delicious punch.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates a luscious, silky sauce that wraps around the gnocchi and chicken.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Balances the richness of the cream with a savory depth.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated: Melts into the sauce, providing sharp, nutty notes and slight thickness.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: Brings a blend of herbs that elevate the flavor profile.
- 1 lb gnocchi, cooked: Pillowy potato dumplings that soak up the creamy sauce in every bite.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances all the flavors and brings balance to the dish.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh, colorful finishing touch to brighten the skillet.
How to Make Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced chicken breast and cook it for about 6 to 7 minutes. You’ll want the chicken to turn a beautiful golden brown on all sides, locking in that juicy flavor. Afterward, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside—don’t worry, it will go back in shortly.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Next, in the same skillet (no need to dirty another pan), toss in the minced garlic. Sauté it for a brief 1 to 2 minutes until it’s fragrant and just starting to turn golden. This step releases the garlic’s rich aroma which is the heart of this dish’s signature flavor. Be careful not to burn it though, as garlic can turn bitter quickly.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring everything together. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer. Then add the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, along with salt and pepper to your liking. Stir continuously until the cheese melts fully and the sauce thickens just enough to coat your spoon. This is the moment where the dish truly becomes indulgent and velvety.
Step 4: Combine the Chicken and Gnocchi
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, followed by the cooked gnocchi. Stir everything gently but thoroughly to ensure that the chicken and gnocchi are evenly coated in the luscious sauce. Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until everything is heated through and the gnocchi absorb some of those garlicky flavors. This step brings the dish to life, melding all the tastes together perfectly.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finally, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley all over the skillet for a lovely touch of green and a burst of freshness. Serve this hearty dish straight from the pan for a warm, inviting meal that tastes like a hug on a plate.
How to Serve Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic garnish for this skillet, adding bright color and a clean herbal note that cuts through the creaminess. For extra flair, try a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for just a hint of heat or a few shavings of Parmesan on top for added cheesiness.
Side Dishes
This creamy skillet pairs beautifully with simple sides that won’t compete with it. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette helps balance the richness, while roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli add texture and nutrients. Garlic bread is another excellent choice to scoop up every last bit of the sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe in individual ramekins or small cast iron skillets to impress your guests. Adding a drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a dollop of pesto on top can elevate the presentation and add an extra punch of flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The creamy nature of the dish means it will keep well for up to 3 days without losing its comforting texture or flavor.
Freezing
While you can freeze leftovers, the cream sauce may separate upon thawing. To prevent this, freeze the chicken and gnocchi separately from the sauce if possible. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and gently reheat.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers slowly on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to revive the sauce’s silky texture. Stir frequently to ensure even heating without curdling the cream.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought gnocchi for this recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought gnocchi works wonderfully and saves time. Just be sure to cook it according to the package instructions before adding it to the skillet.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Simply substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can try substituting half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a bit of flour to thicken, but keep in mind the sauce will be less rich and creamy compared to using heavy cream.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Definitely! You can cook the chicken and make the sauce ahead of time, then combine with freshly cooked gnocchi at serving time for the freshest texture.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Make sure the chicken pieces are no longer pink in the center and have a nice browned exterior. Cooking for 6-7 minutes over medium heat usually ensures they’re cooked through.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe is one of those dishes that always feels like a special occasion on a plate, yet comes together quickly and effortlessly. Its creamy garlic sauce and tender gnocchi create a perfect comfort meal you’ll want to make again and again. Once you try it, I’m confident it will become a new favorite in your dinner rotation.
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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 diced chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a rich garlic-infused Parmesan cream sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it combines easy sautéing and simmering techniques to deliver a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
Produce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Dairy
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Pantry
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lb gnocchi, cooked
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
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, noting the sauce will be less thick.
- Ensure the gnocchi is cooked just before adding to prevent it becoming mushy in the sauce.
- Use fresh Parmesan cheese for best flavor.
- Italian seasoning can be substituted with a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme.
- Add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
- Serve with a side salad or crusty bread to complete the meal.
