BEST GARLIC CHICKEN GNOCCHI SKILLET DINNER

I still remember the first time I attempted to make gnocchi from scratch, a valiant but ultimately disastrous effort that left me with gummy, misshapen blobs (still tasted okay with enough sauce, though!). Thankfully, we don’t have to go through that ordeal to enjoy a comforting, flavorful meal because this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Dinner is here to save the day, offering all the cozy vibes with minimal fuss. Get ready to experience a culinary hug in a pan – I promise you’ll be amazed at how easy and delicious this is!

Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Dinner: Your New Weeknight Hero

Let’s face it, weeknights can be hectic. Between work, errands, and everything else life throws our way, the last thing we want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. That’s where this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Dinner comes in. It’s quick, easy, and uses just one pan, which means fewer dishes to wash – a true win-win!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks in a single skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: Packed with garlic, herbs, and creamy goodness.
• Versatile: Easily customizable with your favorite vegetables.
• Comfort Food: The perfect cozy and satisfying meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delectable Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Dinner. Don’t worry, the list is short and sweet!

• Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces. You can also use chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
• Gnocchi: Shelf-stable or refrigerated gnocchi works best. Avoid frozen gnocchi, as it can release too much water during cooking.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic, minced. Don’t skimp on the garlic – it’s the star of the show!
• Olive Oil: For sautéing the chicken and garlic.
• Chicken Broth: Adds moisture and flavor to the sauce.
• Heavy Cream: Creates a creamy, decadent sauce. You can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter option.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Adds a salty, nutty flavor.
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds depth and complexity to the dish.
• Salt & Pepper: To taste.
• Optional Veggies: Spinach, cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or broccoli.
• Fresh Parsley: For garnish.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Let’s Get Cooking!

Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Dinner on the table in no time.

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. This ensures that the chicken is flavorful and cooks evenly.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to ensure proper browning. If you’re looking for another great chicken recipe, give Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps a try!

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

Add more olive oil to the skillet if needed. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. The aroma should be intoxicating!

Step 4: Add the Broth and Gnocchi

Pour the chicken broth into the skillet and bring to a simmer. Add the gnocchi and cook according to package directions, usually about 3-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Make It Creamy

Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This is where the magic happens – that creamy sauce is what makes this dish so irresistible.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. If using, add your favorite vegetables (spinach, cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or broccoli) and cook until they are tender, about 3-5 minutes. Stir everything together to combine and heat through. Consider how this skillet meal compares to the simplicity of Garlic Chicken Wraps on a busy night!

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. Enjoy your delicious Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Dinner! You can also add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. This dish is best served hot, so dig in!

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Skillet Dinner

Here are a few extra tips and tricks to ensure your Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Dinner is a smashing success.

• Don’t Overcook the Gnocchi: Overcooked gnocchi can become mushy. Cook them just until they float to the surface.
• Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and has a more intense flavor than pre-grated cheese.
• Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to thin it out. If it’s too thin, simmer for a few minutes longer to reduce it.
• Add a Splash of Wine: For a richer flavor, deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine after sautéing the garlic.
• Get Creative with Veggies: Feel free to add any vegetables you like to this dish. Bell peppers, zucchini, and peas are all great options.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little kick.
• Make It Ahead: You can prep the chicken and vegetables ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, simply follow the instructions as written.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile, so feel free to experiment and make it your own. Here are a few ideas to get you started.

• Use Different Protein: Instead of chicken, try using sausage, shrimp, or tofu.
• Add Different Cheese: Try using mozzarella, provolone, or Gruyere cheese.
• Make It Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and add more vegetables, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini. You could even add some white beans for extra protein.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free gnocchi.
• Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Sun-dried tomatoes add a burst of flavor and a chewy texture.
• Use Pesto: Stir in a spoonful of pesto for a vibrant, herby flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Dinner is a complete meal on its own, but here are a few serving suggestions to round out your dinner.

• Serve with a Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is the perfect complement to this rich and creamy dish.
• Serve with Garlic Bread: Crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
• Serve with Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts would be a great addition.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Dinner.

Can I use frozen gnocchi?

I generally don’t recommend using frozen gnocchi for this recipe because it tends to release too much water during cooking, which can make the sauce watery. If you must use frozen gnocchi, be sure to thaw it completely before adding it to the skillet.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the chicken and vegetables ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, simply follow the instructions as written. However, I don’t recommend cooking the entire dish ahead of time, as the gnocchi can become mushy.

Can I freeze this recipe?

I don’t recommend freezing this recipe, as the gnocchi can become mushy and the sauce can separate upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half or milk, but the sauce won’t be as rich and creamy. You may also need to add a little cornstarch to thicken the sauce.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use chicken thighs for a richer flavor. Just be sure to trim off any excess fat before cooking. Many appreciate the versatility of chicken thighs, as seen in recipes like Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken And Potatoes.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Dinner is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for busy weeknights. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to create a delicious and satisfying meal that your whole family will love! Don’t forget, you can always adapt the recipe to suit your tastes and preferences. If you love garlic butter chicken consider this recipe’s cousin Garlic Butter Chicken And Veggies or even Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta.

Best Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Dinner

This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Dinner is a quick and easy one-pan meal, perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with garlic, herbs, and a creamy Parmesan sauce, it’s a flavorful and satisfying comfort food that’s ready in under 30 minutes.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Italian-American

Calories: 600

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 lb gnocchi shelf-stable or refrigerated
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups optional vegetables spinach, cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or broccoli
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Equipment

• large skillet
• knife
• cutting board
• Measuring spoons
• Measuring cups
• Spatula or spoon

Method

 

1. Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add more olive oil to the skillet if needed. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
4. Pour the chicken broth into the skillet and bring to a simmer. Add the gnocchi and cook according to package directions, usually about 3-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface. Stir occasionally.
5. Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. If using, add your favorite vegetables and cook until they are tender, about 3-5 minutes. Stir everything together to combine and heat through.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

Don’t overcook the gnocchi; cook them just until they float. Use freshly grated Parmesan for better melting and flavor. Adjust sauce consistency with chicken broth or by simmering. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated. Chicken thighs, sausage, shrimp, or tofu can be substituted for chicken breasts. Add a splash of white wine for a richer flavor.