Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe

There's nothing quite like the rich, garlicky aroma of a Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet sizzling on the stove. This one-pan wonder combines juicy chicken, pillowy soft gnocchi, and a creamy, garlicky sauce that makes every bite absolutely irresistible.

I first made this dish on a chilly evening when I wanted something quick, hearty, and packed with flavor. Since then, it's become a staple in my kitchen, perfect for those nights when I need a satisfying meal without the hassle of multiple pots and pans.

Why You'll Love This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Get ready to fall in love with this creamy, garlicky masterpiece. It's the perfect balance of indulgence and ease, making it an instant favorite.

First, this dish is fast and easy—ready in just 30 minutes, making it a lifesaver for busy weeknights.

It's also a one-pan meal, meaning less cleanup and more time to relax after dinner.

The flavor is out of this world—with tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and a creamy garlic sauce that clings to every bite, it's comfort food at its finest.

Plus, it's super versatile—you can customize it with your favorite veggies or swap the protein to suit your preferences.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this dish comes from its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one plays an essential role in creating the perfect balance of taste and texture.

Gnocchi is the heart of this dish. The soft, chewy texture pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce. Shelf-stable gnocchi works great, but fresh gnocchi will give an even more delicate bite.

Chicken provides the protein-packed base. I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and tenderness.

Garlic is the star of the sauce. Freshly minced garlic is key here—its deep, aromatic flavor infuses the dish beautifully. If you love garlic, feel free to add an extra clove or two.

Heavy cream and chicken broth create the rich, velvety sauce. The broth keeps it from being too heavy, while the cream adds the perfect amount of indulgence.

You'll also need Parmesan cheese to bring a salty, nutty depth to the dish. Freshly grated Parmesan melts smoothly into the sauce for the best flavor.

A large skillet is the only special equipment required. A heavy-bottomed pan (such as cast iron or stainless steel) ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.

How To Make This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Making this dish is as easy as it is delicious. Let’s break it down step by step.

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a bit of olive oil and let it get hot. Once shimmering, add your bite-sized chicken pieces in a single layer. Sear them for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through, then transfer them to a plate.

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add a little more oil if needed. Toss in the minced garlic and let it cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it—it should be aromatic but not browned.

Next, pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up all the flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. Once simmering, stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle bubble.

Add the gnocchi directly into the skillet, stirring to coat them in the creamy sauce. Let them cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become tender and the sauce thickens.

Return the chicken to the skillet and stir in the Parmesan cheese. Let everything meld together for another minute or two, then season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.

In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a creamy, garlicky, utterly delicious skillet meal that’s ready to serve.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which isn’t always the case with this dish!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, warm the gnocchi gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen up the sauce.

Freezing isn’t recommended, as the creamy sauce can separate and the gnocchi may become too soft when thawed.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how customizable it is! Here are some fun variations to try:

Want more veggies? Add spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms for extra color and flavor.

Swap the protein by using shrimp, Italian sausage, or even rotisserie chicken to change things up.

Lighten it up by using half-and-half instead of heavy cream or replacing some of the cream with extra chicken broth.

Make it dairy-free by using coconut milk instead of heavy cream and omitting the Parmesan (or using a dairy-free alternative).

However you tweak it, this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is guaranteed to be a hit. Give it a try tonight and enjoy a meal that’s both simple and spectacular!

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