Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a cozy and delicious one-pan meal that your whole family will love. Tender pieces of chicken, soft and pillowy gnocchi, and a tasty garlic sauce come together in a skillet for an easy dinner that feels special without a lot of fuss.
I really like to cook this dish when I want something comforting but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. The garlic flavor makes everything taste so fresh and inviting, and the gnocchi soak up the sauce perfectly. It’s always a hit, and I find myself making it again and again because it’s just that good and simple.
One of my favorite ways to serve this skillet is right from the pan, with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or parmesan cheese on top. It feels warm and homemade, like a hug on a plate. If you love garlic and tender chicken, this recipe will quickly become your go-to for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts keeps the pieces tender and quick to cook. You can swap with thighs for a juicier, more flavorful option, especially if you like dark meat.
Gnocchi: Potato gnocchi gives a soft, pillowy texture that absorbs the sauce well. If gnocchi is hard to find, small pasta like tortellini or even small dumplings can work as a stand-in.
Heavy Cream & Parmesan: These create the creamy base of the dish. For a lighter version, try half-and-half, but expect a thinner sauce. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan for a dairy-free option.
Spinach & Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Spinach adds color and freshness. You can use kale or Swiss chard if you prefer a heartier green. The sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy kick but are optional; roasted red peppers are a tasty substitute.
How Do You Get the Gnocchi Perfectly Golden and Soft?
Cooking gnocchi well is key to this dish. Here’s how to get them tender but with a little golden crisp:
- Use a hot skillet with oil or butter before adding gnocchi.
- Add the gnocchi in a single layer. Let them cook without stirring for 2 minutes to get a golden crust.
- Then gently stir or flip to brown the other side.
- Once they’re golden, add the liquids so they can finish cooking and soak up flavors.
Be gentle when stirring so the gnocchi don’t break apart. Keeping a close eye during cooking helps you catch perfect texture every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – I prefer a deep, wide skillet to cook everything evenly and keep ingredients contained.
- Cooking spoon or spatula – makes stirring and turning the chicken and gnocchi easy without breaking them.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for precise liquids like cream, broth, and cheese.
- Knife and cutting board – to chop garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and parsley quickly.
- Kitchen tongs (optional) – helpful for moving gnocchi around or removing cooked chicken pieces.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for cooked shrimp or sausage for a different protein twist.
- Use different greens like kale or arugula instead of spinach for varying textures and flavors.
- Add a splash of chili flakes or smoked paprika for extra spice and depth.
- Mix in sautéed mushrooms or roasted red peppers to add more color and flavor complexity.
Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken and Sauce:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning or fresh thyme leaves
Other Ingredients:
- 1 package (about 16 oz) potato gnocchi
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (optional)
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 25 minutes to make including prep and cooking. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping and 15 minutes cooking everything deliciously together in one pan. It’s a simple, quick meal perfect for busy days.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
Start by seasoning your chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat until hot. Add the chicken and cook, stirring sometimes, until the chicken turns golden brown and is fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Sauté Garlic and Cook Gnocchi:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds until it smells amazing but doesn’t burn. Add the gnocchi straight into the skillet. Cook them according to the package instructions, usually about 2-3 minutes, until they puff up and get a little golden on the edges.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce and Add Vegetables:
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir them well and gently bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet along with fresh baby spinach, sun-dried tomatoes (if using), and Italian seasoning. Cook everything together for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach has wilted and everything is warm.
4. Final Touches and Serve:
Taste the dish and add more salt or pepper if you want. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a fresh, pretty finish. Serve your garlic chicken gnocchi skillet hot, straight from the pan for a cozy, delicious meal.
Can I Use Frozen Gnocchi for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw frozen gnocchi before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or quickly by placing them in a colander and running warm water over them. Pat dry before adding to the skillet to avoid excess moisture.
Can I Substitute Chicken with Another Protein?
Absolutely! Shrimp, Italian sausage, or even tofu are great alternatives. Adjust cooking times accordingly—shrimp cooks quickly, while sausage may need a few more minutes to brown.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of cream or broth if the sauce thickens too much.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! Use coconut cream or a plant-based cream substitute instead of heavy cream, and nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative in place of Parmesan. Keep in mind the flavor and texture will be slightly different but still delicious.
