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If you are craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe hits every note with its creamy, garlicky goodness and tender, golden chicken. This dish effortlessly combines pillowy gnocchi with juicy, flavorful chicken in a luscious sauce that’s bursting with Parmesan and Italian herbs. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special weekend treat, this skillet recipe delivers comfort and elegance all in one pan, making every bite an absolute joy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are delightfully simple yet essential for creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color that makes this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe irresistible. Each item plays its part in building layers of taste from savory to silky.
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced: Tender chicken pieces provide protein and soak up the creamy sauce beautifully.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Used for sautéing the chicken, adding a subtle richness and helping it brown perfectly.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is the heart of the flavor here, giving the dish its signature aromatic punch.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the silky, indulgent sauce that ties all the ingredients together.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds depth and lightens the creamjust enough for a perfect sauce consistency.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated: This brings a sharp, nutty flavor that melts into the sauce, enriching it wonderfully.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds complexity and a hint of earthiness.
- 1 lb gnocchi, cooked: Soft, pillowy gnocchi soaks up the creamy sauce, making each bite luscious and filling.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential to enhance all the natural flavors and balance the dish.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a bright, fresh finish and a pop of color that wakes up the plate.
How to Make Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook it for about 6 to 7 minutes, until it’s beautifully browned on all sides. This step is key for locking in juices and giving the chicken a nice texture. Once cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside for later.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Using the same skillet, toss in the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 to 2 minutes. The aroma of the garlic as it cooks will fill your kitchen and is the foundation for the rich, flavorful sauce that follows. Be careful not to burn it; you want a fragrant golden hue, not bitterness.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
Next, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring everything together gently. Bring the mixture to a simmer which helps meld the flavors. Then add the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Keep stirring until the cheese completely melts and the sauce thickens just enough to cling to the gnocchi and chicken perfectly.
Step 4: Combine the Chicken and Gnocchi
Return the browned chicken to the skillet and add the cooked gnocchi. Stir everything well so every piece is coated with that irresistible creamy sauce. Let it cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, ensuring the gnocchi is heated through and infused with all those wonderful flavors.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finish the Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe by sprinkling fresh chopped parsley over the top. Not only does it add a lovely pop of green color, but it also brings a bright, fresh note that complements the richness of the dish beautifully.
How to Serve Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley is a simple yet effective way to brighten the presentation and flavor profile. For an extra touch, consider a grating of fresh Parmesan or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil. These small additions give your dish a gourmet finish that looks as delightful as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This skillet recipe stands strong on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or some roasted vegetables adds a refreshing crunch and balances the creamy richness. Lightly steamed broccoli or a lemony arugula salad with a vinaigrette can be perfect companions that elevate the entire meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe in individual oven-safe skillets and finish under the broiler with a sprinkle of Parmesan for a gratin-style topping. Another idea is to add sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms for added texture and flavor depth, making it uniquely yours.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Transfer any leftover Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic option for next-day lunches or easy dinners when you’re short on time.
Freezing
While creamy dishes don’t always freeze perfectly, you can freeze this recipe by letting it cool completely then placing it in a freezer-safe container. For best results, consume within 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating to maintain texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the dish gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally. You may want to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to refresh the sauce and keep it silky smooth.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought gnocchi for this recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought gnocchi is a convenient choice and works wonderfully in this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe. Just be sure to cook it according to package instructions before adding to the skillet.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based alternative, and use a dairy-free cheese substitute or nutritional yeast. The texture will vary slightly but the dish will still be delicious!
How can I make this recipe spicier?
For a little heat, add crushed red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic or stir in a dash of hot sauce to the creamy sauce. It adds an exciting kick without overpowering the garlic and herbs.
What can I use instead of chicken breast?
Chicken thighs can be a great alternative if you prefer darker meat with more fat and flavor. They stay tender and juicy, making the skillet even richer.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can dice and season the chicken in advance, and even cook the gnocchi ahead of time. Just assemble and cook everything together when you’re ready for the freshest, creamiest result.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe a go because it’s one of those meals that feels both comforting and special. It’s quick to pull together, incredibly satisfying, and always a crowd-pleaser. Once you try it, I’m sure it will become one of your favorite go-to recipes to share with friends and family.
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Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a creamy and comforting one-pan meal featuring tender diced chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a rich garlic Parmesan cream sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Chicken and Gnocchi
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 lb gnocchi, cooked
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
- 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, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through. 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 well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly, creating a rich and creamy texture.
- Combine the Chicken and Gnocchi: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the cooked gnocchi and stir thoroughly to coat everything evenly with the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the gnocchi to heat through and absorb the flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot for a deliciously creamy and comforting meal.
Notes
- Make sure not to overcook the garlic to avoid a bitter taste.
- You can substitute chicken breast with chicken thighs for a juicier texture.
- For a lighter option, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, but the sauce will be less rich.
- Gnocchi can be boiled fresh or store-bought, just ensure it’s drained well before adding to the skillet.
- Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
