Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Who doesn’t love a quick, satisfying meal that’s loaded with flavor? Our Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is about to become your new go-to dinner!

Did you know that gnocchi—those soft, pillowy potato dumplings—have been a staple in Italian cuisine since the 16th century? Today, we’re giving this classic dish a modern, garlicky twist that’s both indulgent and easy to make!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights.
Rich & Creamy: A garlicky, cheesy sauce that coats every bite.
One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup, more flavor!
Customizable: Add veggies, swap cheeses, or adjust the spice level.

How to Make It Your Own

One of the best things about this dish is how easily it can be customized. Here are some simple ways to switch it up:

Boost the Veggies: Add baby spinach, cherry tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms for extra nutrition and color.
Switch the Cheese: Try Gorgonzola or Asiago for a bolder flavor.
Spice it Up: Love heat? Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Skillet Meal

Use a large, heavy-bottomed skillet for even heat distribution. A cast-iron skillet works great!
Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking the chicken—cook in batches if needed for the best sear.
Adjust the sauce as needed: If it’s too thick, add a splash of chicken broth; if it’s too thin, let it simmer a few extra minutes.

Serving & Presentation Ideas

Once your skillet masterpiece is ready, serve it in style!

Garnish with fresh basil or chopped parsley for a pop of color.
Pair with garlic bread to soak up every drop of the rich, garlicky sauce.
Serve straight from the skillet for a rustic, restaurant-style presentation that will wow your guests!

Nutritional Benefits

While this dish is undeniably comforting, it also packs in some good-for-you ingredients:

Protein-Packed: Chicken and gnocchi provide a satisfying protein boost.
Energy-Rich Carbs: Gnocchi keeps you fueled and satisfied.
Calcium-Rich: Parmesan cheese adds a dose of calcium for strong bones.

Want to lighten it up? Swap heavy cream for milk and increase the veggies-to-gnocchi ratio for a balanced bite.

Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe

Ingredients:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 lb potato gnocchi
6 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp dried Italian herbs
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions:

Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Cook until golden brown and cooked through (6-8 minutes). Remove and set aside.
Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant (be careful not to burn it!).
Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits with a wooden spoon to enhance flavor.
Cook the Gnocchi: Add gnocchi and bring to a simmer. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.
Make the Sauce: Reduce heat to medium-low, pour in heavy cream, and let simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, add Parmesan, and stir until melted and creamy.
Final Touch: Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot!

Recipe FAQs

Q: What can I substitute for heavy cream?
A: You can use half-and-half, whole milk, or a non-dairy alternative like unsweetened almond milk. The sauce may be slightly less creamy, but still delicious!

Q: How long can I store leftovers?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Q: Can I freeze this dish?
A: While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently. Note: Gnocchi texture may change slightly upon reheating.

This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet proves that you don’t need hours in the kitchen to create a meal that’s both comforting and impressive. Whether cooking for family or friends, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit.

So grab your skillet, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy every bite of this creamy, garlicky goodness. Buon appetito!