Irresistible Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Skillet Recipe

Introduction

The rich aroma of garlic sizzling in a skillet, paired with tender chicken and pillowy gnocchi, is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. This recipe for Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Skillet is one that I’ve perfected over countless dinners. It’s a dish that effortlessly combines comfort and elegance, making it perfect for a cozy weeknight or a special gathering. I first stumbled upon this combination while experimenting with ways to use up some leftover gnocchi, and honestly, it’s been a family favorite ever since.

What makes this recipe truly irresistible is the balance of flavors. You’ve got the savory, garlicky chicken, the soft and chewy gnocchi, and a creamy sauce that ties it all together. Plus, it’s all made in one skillet, which means minimal cleanup—something we can all appreciate, right? Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and delivers big on taste. Trust me, once you’ve tried it, you’ll want to make it again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is a lifesaver for busy weeknights.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal—and relax afterward!
• Simple Ingredients: No need to hunt for specialty items; most ingredients are pantry staples.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the comforting flavors of this skillet meal.
• Unbelievably Delicious: The creamy garlic sauce paired with tender chicken and gnocchi is a flavor explosion.

This recipe stands out because of its simplicity and versatility. It’s not just another chicken dish—it’s a masterful blend of textures and flavors. The gnocchi absorbs the creamy, garlicky goodness, while the chicken remains juicy and flavorful. It’s the kind of meal you’ll want to savor slowly, but it’s so good you might find yourself going back for seconds (or thirds!).

Honestly, this is the kind of recipe that makes you look like a seasoned chef without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself, this dish is guaranteed to impress.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Skillet recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a dish full of flavor. Here’s everything you’ll need:

• Chicken breast: Boneless, skinless, and cut into bite-sized pieces.
• Gnocchi: Store-bought or homemade; choose potato gnocchi for the best texture.
• Garlic: Freshly minced, about 4-5 cloves (adjust to your garlic-loving preference).
• Heavy cream: Adds richness to the sauce.
• Chicken broth: Low-sodium is best for controlling the saltiness.
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated for maximum flavor.
• Olive oil: For sautéing the chicken.
• Butter: Unsalted, to create the base for the sauce.
• Spinach: Fresh baby spinach adds a pop of color and nutrition.
• Salt and pepper: To taste, for seasoning the dish.
• Optional: Red pepper flakes for a little heat.

These ingredients are easy to find and incredibly versatile. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can swap out the spinach for kale or arugula or use a dairy-free alternative for the cream to fit your dietary needs.

Equipment Needed

To make this Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Skillet, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools:

• Large skillet: A deep non-stick or cast-iron skillet works best for even cooking and easy cleanup.
• Sharp knife: For cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: To stir the ingredients without scratching your skillet.
• Tongs: Helpful for flipping the chicken as it cooks.
• Grater: For freshly grating Parmesan cheese.

If you don’t have a cast-iron skillet, a heavy-bottomed pan will work just fine. Remember to clean your tools right after cooking to keep them in top condition!

Preparation Method

1. Start by prepping your ingredients. Dice the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces, mince the garlic, and grate the Parmesan cheese. Wash and dry the spinach leaves.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken pieces. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is fully cooked and golden brown. Remove the chicken and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic—it should smell amazing but not turn dark.
4. Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan—this adds incredible flavor to the sauce.
5. Reduce the heat to low and stir in 1 cup of heavy cream. Let the mixture come together for about 2 minutes, creating a silky, creamy sauce.
6. Add the gnocchi to the skillet and stir to coat. Cover the skillet and let the gnocchi cook in the sauce for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. The gnocchi should be soft and tender.
7. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to combine. Add the fresh spinach, stirring until it wilts into the sauce.
8. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top and stir until melted and well incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed—add more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.
9. Serve immediately while the dish is hot and the sauce is creamy. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are a few tips to make sure your Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Skillet turns out perfectly:

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure it sears properly and doesn’t steam.
• Fresh garlic is key: Pre-minced garlic can work, but fresh garlic will give you the best flavor.
• Keep an eye on the gnocchi: It cooks quickly, so don’t walk away from the stove. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
• Use high-quality Parmesan: Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as well—opt for freshly grated for the best results.
• Season as you go: Taste the sauce before adding the chicken back in, and adjust the salt and pepper levels to your liking.

Cooking is all about experimenting and adjusting. Don’t be afraid to tweak the recipe to suit your tastes!

Variations & Adaptations

Here are a few ways to make this recipe fit your preferences or dietary needs:

• Low-carb option: Swap the gnocchi for cauliflower gnocchi or zucchini noodles.
• Vegetarian version: Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or tofu for a plant-based alternative.
• Spicy twist: Add a teaspoon of chili flakes to the sauce for a kick of heat.
• Cheesy upgrade: Mix in mozzarella or Gruyère for an extra creamy texture.
• Seasonal greens: Substitute spinach with kale or Swiss chard based on the season.

I’ve tried swapping the chicken for shrimp, and it was equally delicious. Feel free to experiment and make this dish your own!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Skillet is best enjoyed fresh and hot. Here’s how to serve and store it:

• Serving: Serve straight from the skillet for a rustic presentation. Pair with a crisp green salad or some steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to revive the sauce.
• Freezing: While gnocchi is best fresh, you can freeze the dish for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

The flavors deepen after a day in the fridge, making leftovers just as tasty!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Skillet is a hearty and satisfying dish. Here’s a quick look at its nutritional breakdown per serving:

• Calories: Approximately 450
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 18g

With a good amount of protein from the chicken and the energy-packed carbs from the gnocchi, this dish is perfect for fueling your day. The spinach adds a dose of vitamins and iron, while garlic offers antioxidants and immune-boosting properties. If you’re watching your calorie intake, you can opt for light cream or use less butter to lighten it up.

Conclusion

There you have it—an easy, flavorful, and comforting recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Skillet combines the best of convenience and taste, and it’s versatile enough for you to customize based on what you have on hand.

I absolutely adore this recipe because it always delivers a smile at the dinner table. It’s one of those meals that feels like a warm hug after a long day, and I hope you’ll love it as much as my family does.

If you give this recipe a try, let me know how it turned out in the comments below! I’d love to hear your thoughts and any creative twists you added. Be sure to share it with your friends and family—they’re going to thank you for introducing them to this gem. Happy cooking!

FAQs

Can I use frozen gnocchi?

Yes, you can! Just make sure to follow the package instructions for cooking before adding it to the skillet.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add more flavor and stay extra juicy. Just make sure they’re cooked through.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Sure! Replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! You can add mushrooms, bell peppers, or even peas for extra color and flavor.

What’s the best way to make homemade gnocchi?

If you want to make your own gnocchi, mix mashed potatoes, flour, and an egg to form a dough. Roll and cut into bite-sized pieces before boiling.

Print