Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a hearty, one-pan meal that’s packed with tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a rich garlic cream sauce. It’s a comforting, quick-to-make dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of garlic, herbs, and parmesan cheese elevates simple ingredients into a flavorful and satisfying dish.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
chicken breastgnocchi (store-bought or homemade)olive oilbuttergarlic clovesonionchicken brothheavy creamparmesan cheesespinach (optional)salt and pepperItalian seasoning
directions
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced chicken breast, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add butter and sauté minced garlic and chopped onion until soft and fragrant.
Add gnocchi directly to the skillet and cook until lightly golden, about 3-4 minutes.
Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer.
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, add grated parmesan cheese, and stir until melted and creamy.
Toss in fresh spinach if using, and cook until wilted.
Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with extra parmesan if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 20 minutesTotal time: 30 minutes
Variations
Use sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms for extra flavor.
Swap spinach with kale or arugula.
Try using rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Substitute half-and-half for a lighter version.
storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of cream or broth to restore the sauce’s consistency.Freezing is not recommended as the sauce may separate and gnocchi can become mushy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen gnocchi?
Yes, but thaw it first or cook according to package instructions before adding to the skillet.
Can I use milk instead of cream?
Whole milk can be used, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Only if you use gluten-free gnocchi and check all other ingredient labels.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth. Add more vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini.
What type of gnocchi works best?
Shelf-stable or refrigerated gnocchi works great. Homemade is also excellent for a softer texture.
Can I add cheese on top and bake it?
Absolutely! Transfer to an oven-safe dish, top with cheese, and broil until golden.
Conclusion
Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is the perfect comfort meal that combines creamy texture, savory garlic flavor, and quick preparation. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, it’s a dinner winner for any night of the week. Customize it with your favorite veggies or spice levels, and enjoy a dish that everyone at the table will love.
Print
Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Chicken
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A creamy one-pan garlic chicken gnocchi skillet featuring tender chicken, sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and a flavorful cream sauce—ready in about 40 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 lb potato gnocchi (or gluten-free alternative)
- 1.5 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1.5 tsp paprika
- 5 Tbsp butter or ghee, divided
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1 cup white mushrooms, sliced
- 2 Tbsp minced garlic (about 4 cloves)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup half-and-half or heavy cream
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Optional garnish: chopped parsley, grated Parmesan, red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Season chicken thighs on both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 Tbsp butter. Add chicken and cook 5–7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and tent with foil.
- Reduce heat to medium. Melt remaining 3 Tbsp butter in the same pan. Add diced onion, sliced mushrooms, garlic, and Italian seasoning. Sauté 3–4 minutes until onion is translucent and mushrooms soften.
- Pour in chicken broth and let simmer 1–2 minutes, scraping any browned bits.
- Lower heat slightly and pour in half-and-half. Stir continuously, then add mozzarella. Cook 2–3 minutes, stirring until cheese melts and sauce thickens.
- Add cooked gnocchi and fresh spinach to the skillet. Stir gently until spinach wilts and everything is coated in sauce.
- Return chicken to the pan, nestling it into the sauce. Simmer 2–3 minutes until chicken is heated through.
- Serve warm, garnished with parsley, Parmesan, and red pepper flakes if desired.
Notes
- For gluten-free version, use gluten-free gnocchi.
- Bone-in chicken thighs can be used; increase cooking time and sear skin-side first.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat with a splash of broth or water to restore creaminess.
- Swap spinach for kale or arugula for a different flavor profile.
- To reduce calories, lighten up by using reduced-fat dairy or less butter.