Let’s be honest—weeknight dinners can feel like a chore. After a long day, the last thing you want is a recipe with 20 steps and a pile of dishes. That’s where this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet comes in. Not only is it simple, but it’s also packed with creamy, garlicky goodness, and it’s ready in just 30 minutes. Plus, you only need one skillet, so cleanup is a breeze!
If you’re searching for a meal that’s both delicious and low-effort, this is the recipe for you. Let me walk you through how to make this comforting dish, and I’ll even throw in a few pro tips to make it even easier.
For more quick and satisfying recipes, check out this 4-Ingredient Banana Bread for a delightful dessert pairing.
What Makes Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet a Must-Try?
First of all, this recipe is designed with busy schedules in mind. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just cooking for yourself, this dish is fast, satisfying, and packed with flavor. Furthermore, the one-skillet method means you can focus on enjoying your meal instead of scrubbing a pile of pots and pans.
Here’s why you’ll love it:
- Quick to Prepare: You’ll go from prep to table in under 30 minutes.
- Rich and Comforting: The creamy sauce is full of garlicky flavor, with tender chicken and soft gnocchi to soak it all up.
- Easy to Customize: You can add extra veggies, adjust the spice level, or tweak it to suit your preferences.
- Minimal Cleanup: Thanks to the one-pan cooking method, you’ll spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying.
What You’ll Need for your Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet
Let’s begin by reviewing the ingredients. Chances are, you already have most of them in your kitchen. However, if you’re missing anything, don’t worry—they are simple to find at your local store.
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced into bite-sized pieces. Thighs are a bit juicier, but both work perfectly.
- Potato Gnocchi: Store-bought gnocchi is the quickest option. Look for it in the pasta aisle or refrigerated section.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is essential—don’t skimp on it! It adds warmth and depth to the dish.
- Butter & Olive Oil: These two create a flavorful base for sautéing and cooking.
- Chicken Broth: This adds a savory layer of flavor while keeping the sauce light.
- Heavy Cream: The star ingredient for that creamy, luxurious sauce.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds cheesy richness and thickens the sauce beautifully.
- Fresh Spinach: A handful of spinach wilts right into the sauce for a pop of green and added nutrients.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of chili flakes for a little heat.
Step-By-Step Instructions to Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet
If you’re ready to get started, follow these easy steps. Trust me, even if cooking isn’t your thing, you’ll pull this off like a pro!
1. Prep Your Ingredients
Before diving into the cooking process, take a moment to prepare your ingredients thoroughly. Start by chopping the chicken into bite-sized pieces, mincing the garlic finely, and measuring out the broth and cream with precision. This initial prep work not only streamlines the cooking process but also ensures a more organized and enjoyable experience from start to finish.
2. Cook the Chicken
First, heat olive oil and a tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter melts, add the chicken pieces. Sprinkle on some salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure it cooks evenly and develops a golden crust. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic
Now, melt another tablespoon of butter in the same skillet. Add the minced garlic and let it cook for about 30 seconds. Be careful not to burn it! Stir constantly to release that amazing aroma and flavor.
4. Toast the Gnocchi
Next, carefully toss the gnocchi directly into the skillet, ensuring it is evenly coated in the garlicky butter. Then, let it toast for 2-3 minutes, as this step not only adds a slightly crisp exterior but also enhances the overall texture of the dish, making it even more enjoyable.
5. Make the Creamy Sauce
After that, carefully pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, ensuring they combine smoothly. Next, use a wooden spoon to scrape up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet, as these add depth to the dish. Then, stir in the Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt as the sauce simmers gently for a few minutes. As a result, the mixture will thicken into a creamy and irresistibly smooth consistency.
6. Add Spinach and Chicken
At this point, toss in the fresh spinach and let it wilt into the sauce. Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet, stirring everything together until it’s well-coated in the sauce.
7. Serve and Enjoy your Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi
Finally, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve it hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs if you like.
For another creamy and comforting dish, explore Marry Me Chicken to elevate your dinner repertoire.
Cooking Tips for Success
If you want to nail this recipe every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Don’t Skip the Searing: Browning the chicken and gnocchi adds depth and flavor.
- Keep the Sauce at a Simmer: A low, gentle simmer will help the sauce thicken without breaking.
- Use Fresh Garlic: Pre-minced garlic from a jar doesn’t have the same bold flavor.
- Add Veggies: Mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or peas would make great additions.
Custom Variations
Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a great starting point for experimenting with flavors. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:
- Zesty Lemon: Add the zest and juice of one lemon for a fresh, citrusy twist.
- Bacon Lover’s Edition: Stir in some crispy bacon bits for a smoky, savory kick.
- Extra Cheesy: Mix in mozzarella or provolone for a gooey finish.
- Spicy Kick: Double the chili flakes or add a drizzle of hot sauce for extra heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
yes, shredded rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken works beautifully in this recipe. To simplify the process, you can skip the first step and simply add the chicken toward the end of the cooking.
This dish is best served fresh, but leftovers store well in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream to refresh the sauce.
Unfortunately, cream-based sauces do not freeze well, as they tend to separate during the freezing process. Therefore, this dish is best enjoyed when freshly prepared or reheated within a few days for optimal flavor and texture.
While it’s a complete meal on its own, pairing it with garlic bread or a simple side salad makes it even better.
The magic of this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet lies in its simplicity. First, the gnocchi cooks directly in the creamy sauce, soaking up all the garlicky goodness. Second, the chicken adds protein to keep the dish hearty, while the spinach balances it out with a touch of freshness. Finally, the Parmesan cheese brings everything together, creating a dish that’s cozy and satisfying.
Final Thoughts about Chicken Gnocchi Dinner
In the end, this Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi is the recipe you’ll turn to again and again. It’s quick, flavorful, and easy to customize, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family, impressing a dinner guest, or just treating yourself, this dish never disappoints.
So grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and give it a try! I promise, once you’ve tasted this creamy, garlicky masterpiece, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.
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