Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe

There's nothing quite like the rich aroma of garlic-infused butter sizzling in a skillet, setting the stage for a cozy and comforting meal. This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a one-pan wonder that delivers crispy, golden-brown gnocchi, tender bites of juicy chicken, and a velvety garlic cream sauce that clings to every bite.

I first discovered this dish when searching for a way to elevate store-bought gnocchi into something truly special. What started as a quick weeknight experiment quickly became a family favorite—requested time and time again for its creamy texture, bold garlic flavor, and effortless prep.

If you're looking for a fast, satisfying dinner that feels restaurant-worthy but takes under 30 minutes, this recipe is for you. Let’s dive into why you’ll love it!

Why You'll Love This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite one-pan meal. This recipe brings together comforting flavors with an easy, no-fuss approach that makes dinner a breeze.

First off, it's incredibly quick. From start to finish, you can have this dish on the table in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute cravings.

Second, it's a one-pan meal, which means fewer dishes and less cleanup. Everything—chicken, gnocchi, and sauce—cooks in the same skillet, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

You’ll also appreciate how budget-friendly it is. Using store-bought gnocchi and a handful of pantry staples, you can create a luxurious-tasting meal without breaking the bank.

Lastly, it's endlessly versatile. Whether you want to add spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat, this dish easily adapts to whatever you have on hand.

Once you try this, it’ll become a staple in your weekly dinner rotation!

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each component plays a key role in making this dish rich, creamy, and absolutely irresistible.

Let’s start with the gnocchi. Store-bought potato gnocchi is perfect for this recipe because it cooks up quickly and turns delightfully crispy when pan-fried. You’ll want to use shelf-stable or refrigerated gnocchi, as frozen varieties may release too much moisture and prevent browning.

The chicken is the protein star of this dish. I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or chicken thighs for tender, juicy bites. Cut them into even, bite-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly and develop a golden crust.

Garlic is the heart of this recipe. Freshly minced garlic gives the sauce its bold, aromatic flavor. If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add an extra clove or two for even more depth.

For the sauce, a combination of heavy cream and chicken broth creates the perfect balance of richness and lightness. The cream adds a silky texture, while the broth keeps it from feeling too heavy. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or a mix of milk and a touch of cornstarch.

A final sprinkle of Parmesan cheese ties everything together with a nutty, salty kick. It helps thicken the sauce while adding an extra layer of indulgence. If you love cheese, try adding a bit of shredded mozzarella for extra creaminess!

No special equipment is needed—just a large skillet or sauté pan to handle all the magic in one place.

How To Make This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

This dish comes together quickly in just a few simple steps, making it an easy go-to for busy nights.

Start by heating a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the gnocchi in a single layer and let them cook undisturbed for about 3-4 minutes, until golden and crisp on one side. Stir and cook for another 2-3 minutes, then transfer them to a plate. This step gives the gnocchi a delightful toasted texture that makes them extra delicious.

In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil or butter, followed by the chicken pieces. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside with the gnocchi.

Now, it’s time to build the sauce. Reduce the heat to medium, then add butter and minced garlic to the pan. Stir constantly for about 30 seconds, just until the garlic becomes fragrant—be careful not to let it burn! Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom for extra flavor.

Once the broth is simmering, stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, letting the sauce thicken slightly. Add the cooked chicken and crispy gnocchi back into the skillet, tossing everything together until well coated. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

The dish is ready when the sauce is velvety, the gnocchi are tender, and the chicken is perfectly juicy. Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley, then serve immediately!

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which isn’t likely!), this dish stores well for easy meals later.

For refrigeration, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to develop, making it even more delicious the next day!

For freezing, place cooled portions in a freezer-safe container. It will stay fresh for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

To reheat, warm the skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen up the sauce. Avoid high heat, as it may cause the sauce to separate.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this dish is how customizable it is. Here are a few ways to switch it up!

For a lighter version, swap heavy cream for half-and-half or use a blend of milk and cornstarch. The sauce will still be creamy but with fewer calories.

Add vegetables for extra color and nutrition. Spinach, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or sun-dried tomatoes would all make fantastic additions. Simply stir them in when you add the chicken back to the skillet.

Give it a spicy kick by adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. It’s a simple way to amp up the flavor!

Switch up the protein by using shrimp or Italian sausage instead of chicken. Both pair beautifully with the creamy garlic sauce.

For an extra cheesy touch, mix in some shredded mozzarella or Gouda before serving. This makes the sauce even more indulgent and gooey.

No matter how you make it, this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is bound to be a hit. So grab your skillet and get cooking—you’re in for a treat!

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