Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet: A One-Pan Wonder

If you’re craving comfort food that’s easy to make yet bursting with flavor, this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is the recipe for you. Imagine tender bites of chicken and soft gnocchi coated in a creamy, garlicky sauce—pure magic in every bite!

The best part? It all comes together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re feeding the family or looking for a quick meal to impress guests, this dish is guaranteed to become a favorite in your kitchen. Let’s dive in and create this delicious masterpiece.

Tips & Variations

• Make it lighter: Use half-and-half or skim milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce. You can also reduce the amount of Parmesan to cut down on calories while still keeping the flavor rich.
• Vegetarian option: Swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms or a mix of your favorite vegetables like zucchini, spinach, and bell peppers for a delicious vegetarian version.
• Add more greens: Stir in some fresh spinach or arugula at the end for an extra boost of color and nutrients.
• For extra flavor: Try adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a handful of fresh basil just before serving for a fresh, zesty twist.
• Spicy version: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for an extra kick of heat.
• Homemade gnocchi: If you have time, making your own gnocchi can take this dish to the next level with a homemade touch.

Serving Suggestions

This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a complete meal on its own, but you can elevate it with a few tasty sides:

• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs perfectly to balance the rich, creamy dish.
• Garlic Bread: Serve with a slice of warm, crusty garlic bread to soak up all the delicious sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or a medley of seasonal vegetables make a great addition for a more colorful and nutritious plate.

Nutritional Benefits of Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

High-Quality Protein
The chicken in this recipe provides lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall energy. Protein also helps keep you feeling fuller for longer, making this dish satisfying.

Rich in Healthy Fats
The olive oil and Parmesan cheese contribute healthy fats that are important for heart health and brain function. These fats also enhance the creamy texture and rich flavor of the dish.

Calcium for Bone Health
Parmesan cheese is an excellent source of calcium, which supports strong bones and teeth, making this dish a tasty way to meet your daily calcium needs.

Energy from Carbohydrates
The gnocchi provides carbohydrates, which are your body’s primary energy source. This makes it a great meal for refueling after a long day.

Heart-Healthy Garlic
Garlic is known for its heart-healthy benefits, including reducing blood pressure and cholesterol levels. It also contains antioxidants that support overall health.

Customizable Vegetables for Added Nutrients
Adding spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to this recipe can boost fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it even more balanced and nutritious.

Low in Processed Sugars
This dish contains minimal sugar, making it a good choice for those monitoring their sugar intake while still enjoying rich, savory flavors.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen, though gnocchi may lose some of its texture. To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight (if frozen) and warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to bring back the creamy texture. Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.

This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is the perfect recipe for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort. The creamy garlic sauce combined with tender chicken and soft gnocchi creates a dish that’s comforting, flavorful, and sure to satisfy.

We hope you enjoy making this delicious meal and that it becomes a regular in your recipe rotation. Don’t forget to share your creations with us—tag us on social media or leave a comment below with your feedback!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?

Yes! Frozen gnocchi works just as well as fresh or refrigerated gnocchi. Simply add it directly to the skillet without thawing and follow the same cooking instructions.

Can I substitute the chicken for something else?

Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with cooked shrimp, turkey, or even a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian or pescatarian version.

Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can use a dairy-free cream (such as coconut cream or cashew cream) and a dairy-free Parmesan alternative. Just be sure to check the ingredients to make sure it’s suitable for your dietary needs.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken, gnocchi, and garlic sauce in advance, but it’s best to combine everything and finish cooking just before serving to maintain the best texture. If you do want to make it ahead, store the components separately in the fridge and assemble before reheating.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

If you like a bit of heat, try adding more red pepper flakes, a dash of cayenne pepper, or even a bit of hot sauce to the sauce. You can also top the dish with freshly chopped jalapeños for a spicy finish.

Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

This irresistibly creamy and garlicky skillet recipe is packed with tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and rich flavors—all in just one pan. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a quick midweek meal.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Main Dish

Cuisine Italian

Servings 2

Calories 0.6 kcal

Ingredients

  

For the Chicken and Gnocchi

• 1 lb 450g chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 package, 16 oz gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 tbsp olive oil or unsalted butter

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce

• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half for a lighter option or half-and-half for a lighter option
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes. Optional, for a spicy kick
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Garnishes

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Extra grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

 

Cook the Chicken

• Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil (or butter) over medium heat in your skillet.
• Add the chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
• Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Cook the Gnocchi

• In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter.
• Add the gnocchi (if using store-bought, no need to pre-cook; just toss them in).
• Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the gnocchi are lightly golden on the edges. Remove and set aside with the chicken.

Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

• In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
• Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
• Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.

Combine Everything

• Add the cooked chicken and gnocchi back into the skillet.
• Stir in the Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes (if using), and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
• Let everything cook together for another 2-3 minutes until heated through, and the sauce is creamy and coats the chicken and gnocchi.

Serve and Garnish

• Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
• Serve immediately, and enjoy your creamy, garlicky masterpiece.

Notes

Pro Tips: This meal is a good source of protein and calcium, but it's also rich in fats due to the cream and Parmesan cheese. If you're looking to reduce calories or fat, consider using a lighter cream option and reducing the amount of cheese.

Keyword Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet