Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe
There is something irresistibly cozy about this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe that makes it an instant favorite for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Imagine tender, juicy chicken mingling with pillowy gnocchi, all enveloped in a dreamy, garlicky cream sauce that’s both rich and comforting. This dish is a beautiful balance of flavors and textures that comes together quickly, making it perfect for those who crave homemade deliciousness without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe, it will become your go-to comfort meal that always brings smiles to the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple ingredients is the first step to pulling off an unforgettable dish. Each element here plays a crucial role—whether it’s adding creaminess, a burst of flavor, or that perfect tender bite.
- Chicken breast, diced: Provides tender protein that soaks up all the creamy flavors beautifully.
- Olive oil: Classic for sautéing chicken, adding a nice subtle fruitiness while preventing sticking.
- Garlic, minced: The star aromatic that gives the dish a warm, savory depth.
- Heavy cream: Creates a luscious, velvety sauce that coats every bite perfectly.
- Chicken broth: Adds savory richness and balances the cream without overpowering.
- Parmesan cheese, grated: Brings sharp, nutty flavors and helps thicken the sauce naturally.
- Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that enhances the overall flavor profile effortlessly.
- Gnocchi, cooked: Soft, pillowy dumplings that soak up the sauce and add wonderful texture.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential to bring everything into harmony.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a fresh, herbal brightness as a finishing touch.
How to Make Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add the diced chicken breast and cook for about 6 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally, until it’s nicely browned on all sides. The goal here is to lock in those juicy flavors and get a flavorful crust. Once cooked, remove the chicken and set it aside for later.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In the same skillet, without adding more oil, toss in the minced garlic and sauté it for 1 to 2 minutes. Keep an eye on it as garlic can burn quickly; you want it just fragrant and lightly golden. This step releases those signature aromas that set the tone for the whole dish.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
Now it’s time to add the heavy cream and chicken broth to the skillet, stirring them together. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, letting it thicken slightly. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir as the cheese melts fully into the sauce, creating a silky, decadent coating for the rest of the ingredients.
Step 4: Combine the Chicken and Gnocchi
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the cooked gnocchi. Gently fold everything together so that the chicken and gnocchi are evenly coated in the creamy sauce. Continue cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes to ensure the gnocchi is heated through, soaking up all those luxurious flavors.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finish off by sprinkling fresh chopped parsley over the skillet. This touch of green not only adds vibrant color but also a lovely fresh flavor that balances the richness. Serve it straight from the skillet for a warm, inviting presentation.
How to Serve Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of fresh parsley brightens the dish visually and adds a subtle herbal note. For an extra pop, you can also add some cracked black pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a touch of heat.
Side Dishes
This dish is a hearty meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with light, fresh side salads like a baby arugula with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Steamed green beans or roasted asparagus are also perfect companions that bring a refreshing, crisp contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests, serve the Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe in individual cast iron skillets or rustic bowls. Adding a sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a drizzle of good quality olive oil right before serving takes the presentation up a notch. Even a wedge of lemon on the side can offer guests a zesty option to brighten each bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe leftovers can be stored easily in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the dish completely before refrigerating to keep the flavors fresh and the texture just right.
Freezing
While gnocchi can sometimes become a bit soft after freezing, this dish can still be frozen for up to 1 month. Place it in a freezer-safe container, leaving a little room for expansion. When thawing, do so in the refrigerator overnight for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure the sauce warms evenly. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up. Microwaving works as well but watch the time to avoid drying out the chicken or gnocchi.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While Parmesan gives a classic nutty flavor, you can experiment with Pecorino Romano for a sharper edge or even a mild Asiago for creaminess. Just keep the quantity similar to maintain the sauce consistency.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! You can replace the chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. This keeps the dish satisfying without meat.
What type of gnocchi works best?
Store-bought potato gnocchi works wonderfully here and is a great time saver. If you have the time and inclination, homemade gnocchi adds an extra special touch, but is not required for this recipe’s success.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the creamy garlic sauce ahead and just reheat it with the cooked chicken and gnocchi. This can save time on busy days and still deliver maximum flavor.
Should I cook the gnocchi before adding it to the skillet?
Definitely cook the gnocchi separately according to package instructions before adding it to the skillet. This ensures they remain tender and don’t get mushy when combined with the sauce and chicken.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe is a delightful way to bring together simple ingredients into something truly comforting and delicious. It’s quick enough for any weeknight but special enough to share with guests. I hope you give it a try and find as much joy in every creamy, garlicky bite as I do. Happy cooking!
Print
Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a quick and comforting one-pan meal featuring tender chicken breast cooked to perfection, sautéed garlic, and pillowy gnocchi simmered in a rich Parmesan cream sauce. Finished with Italian seasoning and fresh parsley, it delivers a flavorful and satisfying dinner experience in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken and Protein
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
Sauce and Seasoning
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pasta
- 1 lb gnocchi, cooked
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir occasionally until the cheese has melted and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine the Chicken and Gnocchi: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the cooked gnocchi and gently stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the gnocchi to heat through and become well coated with the creamy sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy your creamy garlic chicken gnocchi skillet.
Notes
- Use pre-cooked gnocchi to speed up the cooking process.
- You can substitute chicken breast with chicken thighs for a juicier outcome.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt, since Parmesan cheese adds saltiness.
- For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, but the sauce will be less rich.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
