Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that feels like a warm hug after a long day, let me introduce you to my favorite: the Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet. This one-pan wonder is not only quick to whip up but also perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want something special without all the fuss. The combination of tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and rich garlic sauce will have everyone asking for seconds!

What makes this recipe truly special is how easy it is to make. You can have a hearty meal on the table in just 30 minutes! Plus, it’s flexible enough to customize based on what you have on hand, making it a go-to in my kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this dish saves you time while delivering big flavor.
  • Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the creamy texture and savory taste, making it a hit at any dinner table.
  • Versatile Ingredients: Simple and wholesome ingredients mean you can easily substitute based on your preferences or what’s in your pantry.
  • One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup is always a win! Everything cooks together in one skillet for an easy meal.
  • Indulgent Flavor: The creamy garlic sauce elevates this dish, making it feel indulgent without being overly complicated.
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Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll love how simple and wholesome these ingredients are for the Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet. Gather these items to create a delicious meal that everyone will adore!

For the Main Dish

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 lb potato gnocchi, fresh or store-bought
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or dairy-free alternative)
  • ½ cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or unsalted butter
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 cup spinach or kale (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Red pepper flakes (optional)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to try:

  • Swap the protein: Use diced turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian twist!
  • Add some veggies: Toss in bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrients and color.
  • Change up the cheese: Try using mozzarella or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option that still packs flavor.
  • Spice it up: If you love heat, add more red pepper flakes or even some diced jalapeños for an extra kick!

How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Start by heating olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and season them with salt and pepper. Cooking the chicken until golden brown not only enhances its flavor but also gives your dish a lovely texture.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

Once the chicken is cooked through, it’s time to add that heavenly aroma of minced garlic! Sauté it for about 30 seconds until fragrant—this step really brings out its rich flavors. Be careful not to let it burn; we want that perfect garlicky goodness!

Step 3: Add Gnocchi and Broth

Next, toss in your gnocchi along with the chicken broth. If you’re using fresh gnocchi, they’ll cook quickly! Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes until the gnocchi are tender and have absorbed some of that delicious broth.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Now comes the best part! Pour in your heavy cream (or dairy-free alternative) and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. This is where your skillet transforms into a creamy dream. Keep stirring until everything is blended beautifully and heated through.

Step 5: Finish with Spinach

If you’re adding spinach or kale, toss it in now! Stir until wilted; this adds color and nutrients to your dish without losing any creaminess. Finally, adjust seasoning if needed and sprinkle red pepper flakes if you like some heat.

And there you have it—your Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is ready to be enjoyed! Serve hot with extra Parmesan on top if you’re feeling indulgent. Enjoy every creamy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Cooking can sometimes feel overwhelming, but with a few insider tips, your Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet will turn out amazing every time!

  • Use fresh gnocchi: Fresh gnocchi has a delightful texture and flavor that elevates the dish. If you’re using packaged gnocchi, ensure it’s cooked according to the package instructions for the best results.

  • Sear the chicken properly: Start with a hot skillet to get a nice golden-brown sear on the chicken. This adds depth of flavor and keeps the chicken juicy and tender.

  • Adjust the creaminess: Feel free to modify the amount of heavy cream based on your preference. For a lighter version, reduce it slightly or swap in a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream.

  • Add veggies for nutrition: Tossing in spinach or kale not only adds color but also boosts the nutritional value. These greens wilt quickly and blend seamlessly into the creamy sauce.

  • Don’t skip the seasoning: A good pinch of salt and pepper enhances all the flavors in this dish. Taste as you go and adjust based on your palate!

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Presenting your dish beautifully can make mealtime even more enjoyable! Here are some ideas on how to serve this delicious meal.

Garnishes

  • Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a splash of color but also enhances the overall freshness of the dish.

  • Grated lemon zest: Adding a touch of lemon zest provides brightness that cuts through the creaminess, complementing the garlic flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

  • Garlic bread: The perfect companion for soaking up every last drop of that creamy sauce! Toasted and buttery garlic bread is always a hit.

  • Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables, like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini, add color and nutrients while balancing out the richness of the gnocchi skillet.

  • Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to this hearty dish.

  • Steamed broccoli: Quick and easy to prepare, steamed broccoli is nutritious and complements the flavors without overpowering them.

Now that you have everything you need, it’s time to whip up this comforting Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet! Enjoy every bite!

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Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, store it, and enjoy it later without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Storing Leftovers

  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
  • Enjoy within 3-4 days for the best taste and quality.
  • Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.

Freezing

  • Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
  • Transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible.
  • Freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

  • Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  • Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.
  • Stir occasionally and add a bit of cream or broth if needed to restore creaminess.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I use a different type of gnocchi for the Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet?

Absolutely! You can use gluten-free gnocchi or even homemade gnocchi if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times according to the package instructions.

How can I make the Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet vegetarian?

To make this dish vegetarian, simply replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The creamy sauce will still be delicious!

What can I substitute for heavy cream in this recipe?

You can use a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream for a lighter option. Both will give you that creamy texture without using heavy cream.

Can I add more vegetables to my Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet?

Yes! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli. Just sauté them along with the garlic for added flavor and nutrition.

How long does it take to prepare this meal?

This Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, making it a quick and satisfying dinner option!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re excited to try this Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet! It’s a comforting meal that brings warmth and satisfaction—all made in just one pan! Whether you’re whipping it up for a busy weeknight or sharing it with loved ones, it’s sure to become a favorite at your table. Enjoy making this delightful dish, and don’t forget to share your experience—happy cooking!

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Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

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Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth and flavor to your dinner table. This rich and satisfying dish features tender pieces of chicken and fluffy gnocchi enveloped in a luscious garlic cream sauce, all cooked in one pan for easy cleanup. In just 30 minutes, you can serve up a hearty meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With its customizable ingredients, this recipe allows you to get creative based on what you have on hand, making it a staple in any kitchen. Enjoy every creamy bite—it’s sure to become a favorite!

  • Author: Penelope
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Skillet
  • Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 lb potato gnocchi
  • 4 cloves garlic
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or dairy-free alternative)
  • ½ cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or unsalted butter
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: spinach or kale

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown.
  2. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the gnocchi and chicken broth. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the gnocchi are tender.
  4. Pour in the heavy cream, add Parmesan cheese, and stir until combined and heated through.
  5. If using spinach or kale, add it now and stir until wilted. Adjust seasonings as needed.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
  • Calories: 480
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 650mg
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg

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