Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

A one-pan wonder, this Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. With tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and a luscious garlic sauce, this dish delivers comfort and flavor that everyone will love. Whether it’s a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe shines with its rich and creamy texture while remaining easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish takes only 30 minutes to make from start to finish, making it perfect for busy nights.
• One-Pan Meal: Fewer dishes mean less clean-up; everything cooks in one skillet!
• Flavorful: The combination of garlic, cream, and Parmesan creates a savory sauce that’s hard to resist.
• Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasoning to suit your taste.
• Hearty and Satisfying: Packed with protein and carbs, this meal will keep you full and satisfied.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet smoothly, having the right tools on hand can make all the difference.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A spacious skillet allows for even cooking of chicken and gnocchi without overcrowding.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring ingredients gently without scratching your cookware.
• Measuring cups: Ensures precise measurement of ingredients for balanced flavors.
• Measuring spoons: Perfect for accurately adding seasonings like Italian herbs.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for the Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet:

For the Chicken

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

For the Gnocchi

• 1 lb potato gnocchi (fresh or store-bought)

For the Sauce

• 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

For Flavoring

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 cup spinach or kale (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Red pepper flakes (optional)

How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious meal.

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil or butter. Once hot:
1. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces.
2. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
3. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet:
1. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Be careful not to burn it!

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

Add heavy cream and chicken broth to the skillet:
1. Stir well to combine with garlic.
2. Bring to a simmer and allow it to thicken slightly.

Step 4: Combine Gnocchi and Chicken

1. Add potato gnocchi directly into the sauce.
2. Stir in cooked chicken pieces along with grated Parmesan cheese.
3. If using, add spinach or kale at this stage.
4. Cook everything together for an additional 3-5 minutes until heated through.

Step 5: Serve

Once everything is well combined:
1. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
2. Serve hot with an extra sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired!

Enjoy your delicious Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet!

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Serving this Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is all about enhancing its rich flavors and creating a delightful dining experience. Here are some ideas to make your meal even more enjoyable.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: Toss together leafy greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers for a refreshing contrast.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy dressing and croutons adds a classic touch.

Add Extra Greens

• Sautéed Spinach: Quickly sauté spinach with garlic for an easy and nutritious side.
• Roasted Broccoli: Roast broccoli florets with olive oil and seasoning for a flavorful accompaniment.

Enjoy with Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm, buttery garlic bread for dipping into the creamy sauce.
• Baguette Slices: Lightly toasted slices of baguette are perfect for scooping up gnocchi.

How to Perfect Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

To achieve the best version of your Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality chicken elevate the dish’s flavor significantly.
• Don’t Overcook Gnocchi: Cook gnocchi until they float to the top to maintain their delightful texture.
• Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add more broth or cream slowly until desired consistency is reached.
• Experiment with Greens: Adding spinach or kale not only enhances nutrition but also gives color to your dish.
• Garnish Wisely: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan or fresh herbs before serving adds an appealing finish.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Complementing your Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet with tasty side dishes can create a balanced meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes seasoned with garlic pair perfectly with the creamy sauce.
2. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus brings freshness and crunch to the table.
3. Caprese Salad: Juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a delightful contrast.
4. Grilled Zucchini: Slice zucchini and grill until tender for a smoky flavor that complements the dish well.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with vegetables offers a nutritious boost alongside your main course.
6. Creamy Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can add crunch and balance out the richness of the gnocchi skillet.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking a delicious Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is easier than you think, but there are common mistakes that can lead to less-than-perfect results.

• Using cold ingredients: Starting with cold chicken or cream can affect cooking time. Let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking.
• Overcrowding the pan: Too much chicken in the skillet can prevent even cooking. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure each piece gets a nice sear.
• Neglecting seasoning: Failing to season your dish can make it bland. Always taste as you go and adjust salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning accordingly.
• Boiling gnocchi too long: Overcooking gnocchi can make them mushy. Follow package instructions closely and remove them from boiling water as soon as they float.
• Not allowing sauce to thicken: Rushing the sauce can result in a watery texture. Allow enough time for the heavy cream to reduce and thicken for a creamy consistency.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• Best consumed within 2 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in intervals of 1 minute, stirring between each until warm.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of broth and heat over medium until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making the Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet.

Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

Yes, store-bought gnocchi works well for this recipe and saves time!

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream for a lighter option.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute chicken with mushrooms or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How do I add more vegetables?

You can incorporate spinach or kale into the dish easily by adding them during the last few minutes of cooking.

Can I use leftover chicken?

Yes! Using leftover cooked chicken will save time; just add it when making the sauce to heat through.

Final Thoughts

The Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a delightful one-pan meal that is both comforting and versatile. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins. Try this recipe tonight for an indulgent yet quick dinner everyone will love!