If you’re looking for a quick, comforting, and restaurant-quality meal that comes together in just one pan, this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is the answer! Tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a rich, garlicky cream sauce make this dish irresistible. Perfect for busy weeknights yet elegant enough for date nights, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
✅ One-pan wonder – Less cleanup, more flavor!
✅ Ready in 30 minutes – Quick and easy for busy nights.
✅ Creamy, garlicky perfection – A rich, velvety sauce coats every bite.
✅ Versatile – Swap ingredients based on what you have on hand.
Ingredients
For the Chicken & Gnocchi
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 (16 oz) package potato gnocchi (fresh or shelf-stable)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (divided)
- 3 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt & black pepper (to taste)
For the Cream Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup fresh spinach (optional, for added greens)
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (optional, for a tangy twist)
Garnish (Optional)
- Fresh parsley or basil
- Extra Parmesan cheese
- A squeeze of lemon juice
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Chicken
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté the Gnocchi
- In the same skillet, add 1 more tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter.
- Add the gnocchi and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly golden. Remove and set aside.
3. Make the Garlic Cream Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well.
- Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, then stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
4. Combine Everything
- Return the chicken and gnocchi to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce.
- If using, add spinach and sun-dried tomatoes, stirring until the spinach wilts (about 1-2 minutes).
5. Serve & Garnish
- Top with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan, and a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
- Enjoy immediately while hot!
Tips for the Best Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet
🔥 Crispier gnocchi? Pan-fry them a little longer for extra texture.
🍗 Juicier chicken? Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed.
🧀 No heavy cream? Substitute with half-and-half or whole milk (sauce will be thinner).
🌿 Extra veggies? Try mushrooms, asparagus, or roasted red peppers.
Serving Suggestions
- With bread: A crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up the sauce.
- Side salad: A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness.
- Wine pairing: A crisp Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio complements the creamy garlic flavors.
Make Ahead & Storage
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet with a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce.
- Freezer: Not recommended (gnocchi can become mushy).
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, garlicky, and packed with flavor. With minimal prep and one pan, it’s a foolproof dish that feels indulgent without requiring hours in the kitchen.
Give it a try and let us know what you think in the comments! Happy cooking! 🍳✨