Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

If you’re looking for a quick and hearty meal that will have everyone at the table smiling, this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is just the ticket! In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a creamy, garlic-infused dish that combines tender chicken and fluffy gnocchi. It’s one of those recipes that feels special but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home.

The beauty of this dish lies in its comforting flavors and easy preparation. With simple ingredients and minimal fuss, you can serve up a delicious meal that satisfies both kids and adults alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to make: With only 30 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy a home-cooked meal without spending all evening in the kitchen.
• Deliciously creamy: The combination of heavy cream, garlic, and Parmesan cheese creates a rich sauce that beautifully coats the gnocchi.
• Customizable for everyone: This recipe easily adapts to suit your taste preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand.
• Perfectly satisfying: Tender chicken paired with pillowy gnocchi makes for a filling dish that leaves everyone feeling happy and full.
• Great for meal prep: Make this dish ahead of time and reheat it for an easy lunch or dinner during the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the ingredients! This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet uses simple, wholesome items you probably already have in your pantry. You’ll appreciate how straightforward it is to gather everything together.

For the Chicken and Gnocchi

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

For the Sauce

• 6 cloves garlic, minced (because there’s no such thing as too much garlic!)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried Italian herbs
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For Garnish

• Fresh basil leaves

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to switch things up based on your preferences or what’s available in your kitchen.

• Swap the protein: Try using diced turkey breast or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or cherry tomatoes when adding the sauce to boost nutrition and color.
• Change the cheese: If Parmesan isn’t your favorite, feel free to use Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.
• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes while cooking for a little kick that livens up every bite.

How to Make Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces along with salt, pepper, and dried Italian herbs. Cooking until golden brown takes about 6-8 minutes. Removing the chicken once cooked ensures it stays juicy while we prepare the rest of our dish.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. This step is crucial as it infuses our dish with that beautiful garlic flavor we all adore—just be careful not to let it burn!

Step 3: Create the Sauce Base

Pour in the chicken broth next. Using a wooden spoon, scrape up any browned bits from the skillet’s bottom—these bits are packed with flavor! Allow this mixture to come together before we add more ingredients.

Step 4: Cook Gnocchi

Now it’s time to add our gnocchi! Bring everything to a simmer and cook for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften. This allows them to absorb all those delicious flavors from our sauce.

Step 5: Add Cream

Reduce heat to medium-low and pour in heavy cream. Stir gently as it simmers for another 2-3 minutes; this thickens our sauce beautifully.

Step 6: Combine Everything Together

Finally, return your cooked chicken back into the skillet along with grated Parmesan cheese. Mix everything well until melted together—this is where all those comforting flavors unite!

Step 7: Final Taste Test

Give your dish a taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. Remember, it’s always easier to add than take away!

There you have it—a delightful Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet ready in no time! Enjoy sharing this comforting meal with loved ones; I promise they’ll be asking for seconds!

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Creating a delicious Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a breeze with a few handy tips to elevate your cooking experience!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality chicken broth can make a world of difference in flavor. Fresh ingredients enhance the taste and aroma, creating a dish that truly shines.
• Don’t rush the browning: Allowing the chicken to brown properly before removing it from the skillet adds depth to the overall flavor. That caramelization brings out savory notes that will take your dish to the next level.
• Adjust consistency to your liking: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer after adding the cream. This allows it to reduce and become more luxurious, perfect for coating every piece of gnocchi.
• Customize with vegetables: Feel free to add some spinach or cherry tomatoes when you add the gnocchi. Not only do they provide color and nutrition, but they also bring additional flavors that complement the dish beautifully.
• Leftovers are delightful: This dish stores well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheating it on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth keeps it creamy and delicious!

How to Serve Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Serving this delightful Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet can turn your weeknight dinner into a cozy feast! Here are some ideas on how to present this comforting dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A sprinkle of torn basil adds a burst of color and freshness that complements the garlic sauce perfectly.
• Extra Parmesan cheese: A light dusting of freshly grated Parmesan just before serving enhances richness and visual appeal.
• Cracked black pepper: A few twists of cracked black pepper not only elevate presentation but also add an extra layer of flavor.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread is an excellent accompaniment that allows you to savor every drop of that creamy sauce.
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the gnocchi skillet.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus pair wonderfully with this dish, adding both color and nutrients.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers a healthy side that balances out the meal while being easy to prepare alongside your main dish.

Now you’re all set for an unforgettable dining experience with this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet! Enjoy every comforting bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy a delicious dinner throughout the week. You can whip up a batch in advance and have it ready to go when you need a comforting meal.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will keep well for up to 3 days.
• Be sure to let it cool down to room temperature before sealing it to preserve freshness.

Freezing

• To freeze, portion out the Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet into freezer-safe containers.
• Leave a little space at the top of each container for expansion as it freezes.
• It’s best enjoyed within 2-3 months, but can be stored longer if needed.

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, thaw the skillet in the refrigerator overnight before warming.
• Heat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if it seems too thick.
• Stir occasionally until heated through, ensuring that it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

Can I use store-bought gnocchi for Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet?

Absolutely! Store-bought gnocchi is convenient and works perfectly in this recipe. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package for best results.

What can I substitute for chicken in Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet?

If you’re looking for alternatives, consider using diced turkey or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian twist. The creamy sauce will complement both options beautifully!

How can I make Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet gluten-free?

You can easily make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free gnocchi. Just check the labels to ensure they meet your dietary needs.

Can I add vegetables to Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet?

Definitely! Feel free to toss in spinach, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini. Just sauté them along with the garlic to infuse those flavors into your skillet.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s a cozy hug on a plate that brings everyone together. Whether you’re having a busy weeknight or just want something deliciously comforting, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations with loved ones!