Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug after a long day, you’ve found it! This Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is one of my all-time favorites. It combines tender chicken with pillowy gnocchi and a luscious garlic sauce that will make your taste buds sing. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress family and friends, this dish comes together in just about 30 minutes. Trust me; it’s hearty, comforting, and absolutely delicious!

I love how this recipe makes use of simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up that even the most novice cooks can feel like kitchen rock stars. So grab your skillet, and let’s dive into this delightful meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can have a gourmet meal on the table without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to both kids and adults. The creamy sauce and soft gnocchi make it irresistible!
• One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to relax after dinner. Everything cooks in one skillet – how convenient is that?
• Customizable: You can easily tweak the ingredients based on what you have on hand or personal preferences.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic, cream, and Parmesan creates a savory sauce that elevates the entire dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is made with simple, wholesome items that pack a flavorful punch. Here’s what you’ll need:

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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you enjoy or have available.

• Swap the protein: Try using shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a delicious twist.
• Add more veggies: Incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition.
• Change the cheese: If you’re feeling adventurous, substitute the Parmesan with feta or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Make it spicy: Add more red pepper flakes if you love some heat in your dishes.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Start by heating olive oil in your skillet over medium heat. Add the bite-sized pieces of chicken, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Sauté until they are golden brown and cooked through—about 5-7 minutes. Cooking the chicken thoroughly ensures it’s juicy and flavorful!

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

Once your chicken is beautifully cooked, add minced garlic to the pan. Sauté it for about 30 seconds until fragrant but be careful not to burn it! This step infuses your dish with a rich garlic aroma that will have everyone at the table excited.

Step 3: Add Gnocchi and Broth

Next, toss in the potato gnocchi along with the chicken broth. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 5 minutes until the gnocchi is tender. The broth helps cook the gnocchi while keeping everything nice and moist.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Now it’s time to make things creamy! Pour in your heavy cream (or dairy-free alternative) and sprinkle in Italian seasoning. Stir well and let it simmer for another few minutes until everything is heated through. This step transforms your skillet into a luxurious sauce that clings perfectly to every bite of gnocchi.

Step 5: Finish with Spinach and Cheese

Finally, stir in your grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined. If you’re adding spinach or kale, toss them in now until wilted. This adds color and nutrition while enhancing the overall flavor of your dish!

And there you have it—a delightful Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet that’s ready to be served! Enjoy every creamy bite with loved ones around your dinner table.

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Cooking should be fun and stress-free, so here are some tips to ensure your Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet turns out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh gnocchi if possible: Fresh gnocchi cooks quickly and has a delightful texture that store-bought varieties may lack. This will give your dish an elevated taste.

• Sauté chicken until golden brown: Browning the chicken not only enhances its flavor but also adds a pleasing visual appeal to the dish. Aim for a nice sear before adding the garlic.

• Don’t rush the garlic: Cooking garlic just until fragrant is key; overcooking can lead to bitterness. Stir it in right after the chicken is done to maintain its rich flavor.

• Adjust consistency with broth or cream: If you prefer a lighter sauce, feel free to add more broth or reduce the amount of cream. Tailoring the sauce to your liking makes the dish even more enjoyable!

• Incorporate greens for extra nutrition: Adding spinach or kale not only boosts the nutritional value but also adds a vibrant color that makes your skillet pop!

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Serving your Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet can be as delightful as cooking it! Here are some ideas on how to present this hearty meal.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a touch of color and freshness, enhancing both appearance and flavor.
• Lemon zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest brightens up the dish with a refreshing hint that balances the richness of the sauce.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: This classic side is perfect for soaking up any leftover creamy sauce, making every bite count.
• Mixed greens salad: A simple salad with crisp lettuce, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy gnocchi.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized bring additional textures and flavors that complement your skillet dish beautifully.
• Steamed broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers crunch and vibrancy while adding fiber and vitamins to your meal.

Now you’re ready to serve up this delicious Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet with style! Enjoy every comforting bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy this delightful dish throughout the week without any hassle. Here’s how to store it, freeze it, and reheat it for maximum flavor.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely.
• Transfer to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool completely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Add a splash of broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this recipe.

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of gnocchi in the Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet?

Absolutely! You can substitute gnocchi with other pasta varieties like penne or fusilli. Just be sure to adjust cooking times according to the pasta you choose.

How can I make this Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet dairy-free?

To make this dish dairy-free, use a dairy-free cream alternative and omit the Parmesan cheese. Nutritional yeast can be added for a cheesy flavor without dairy.

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

Yes! Feel free to incorporate your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini. Just sauté them along with the chicken for added nutrition and flavor.

What can I serve with Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet?

This dish is hearty enough on its own, but you might enjoy serving it alongside a fresh salad or crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and comfort to your table. With its creamy garlic sauce and tender chicken paired with soft gnocchi, this dish is bound to impress anyone who tries it. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and dive into this delightful recipe. Happy cooking!

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