Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a comforting, one-pan meal that’s ready in just 30 minutes. Packed with juicy chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a creamy garlic parmesan sauce, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners. With simple ingredients and minimal cleanup, it’s a flavorful, satisfying dinner you’ll want to make again and again.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

gnocchichicken breasts (cubed)olive oilbuttergarlic (minced)heavy creamchicken brothparmesan cheesespinach (fresh)salt and peppercrushed red pepper flakes (optional)parsley (for garnish)

directions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add the cubed chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

In the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté the garlic until fragrant.

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.

Add the gnocchi and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until gnocchi is tender.

Stir in the parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Return the chicken to the skillet and add fresh spinach. Cook until the spinach wilts and the chicken is heated through.

Sprinkle with red pepper flakes if using, and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 20 minutesTotal time: 30 minutes

Variations

Swap chicken for Italian sausage or shrimp for a twist.

Use kale or arugula instead of spinach for a different green.

Add sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.

Make it dairy-free by using coconut cream and dairy-free cheese alternatives.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess.Avoid freezing, as the cream sauce may separate when thawed.

FAQs

Can I use frozen gnocchi?

Yes, but thaw it first or add extra cooking time if using straight from frozen.

Is it okay to use pre-cooked chicken?

Absolutely—just stir it in at the end to warm through.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What’s the best pan to use?

A large nonstick or stainless steel skillet with a lid works best.

Can I add more veggies?

Definitely! Try adding peas, zucchini, or bell peppers.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes longer or add more parmesan.

Is this kid-friendly?

Yes, it’s creamy, cheesy, and mild in flavor—perfect for kids.

Can I make this ahead?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the chicken and garlic in advance.

What type of gnocchi should I use?

Shelf-stable or refrigerated gnocchi both work well.

Do I have to use heavy cream?

Heavy cream gives the richest result, but half-and-half can be used in a pinch.

Conclusion

Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a fast, flavorful dinner solution that brings comfort food to your table with minimal effort. Its creamy texture, savory garlic notes, and tender chicken make it a standout dish perfect for any night of the week. Try it once, and it might just become your go-to skillet meal.

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