If you’ve been on the hunt for a comforting, rich, and downright delicious meal that comes together with ease, this Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe to Savor Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender chicken pieces browned to perfection, nestled alongside pillowy gnocchi, all wrapped in a velvety garlic-infused cream sauce with fresh spinach and Parmesan melting into every bite. It’s a dish that brings warmth to the table and never fails to impress, whether you’re feeding family on a busy weeknight or cooking for friends who appreciate a truly satisfying meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients is your first step toward creating magic on the stovetop. Each element plays a pivotal role, from flavor to texture and even a pop of vibrant color that makes the dish as beautiful as it is tasty.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Bite-sized pieces cook evenly and soak up the sauce wonderfully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For a subtle fruity richness that helps brown the chicken perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Adds silky texture and depth to the sauce base.
- 1 small onion, diced: Softens and sweetens, building a flavorful foundation.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with that unmistakable aromatic punch.
- 1 (16 oz) package potato gnocchi: Light and pillowy, no pre-boiling needed for convenience.
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream: Creates the luscious and creamy sauce that ties everything together.
- ½ cup chicken broth: Adds savory depth and balances richness.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce, lending savory, nutty notes.
- 2 cups baby spinach: Fresh greens add color, nutrition, and a tender bite.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasoning that brings harmony.
- Optional: red pepper flakes and fresh parsley for garnish: Add a touch of heat and fresh herbaceous brightness.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe to Savor Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the bite-sized chicken pieces seasoned with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Sauté them for about 6 to 8 minutes until they develop a beautiful golden crust and are cooked through. This step locks in flavor and gives each bite a delightful texture. Once ready, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside—don’t worry, it will reunite with the sauce soon.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base
In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the diced onion and cook for around 3 minutes until it softens and turns translucent—this gentle cooking brings out the onion’s natural sweetness. Then, stir in the garlic and let it cook for just 30 seconds more, enough to release that irresistible aroma without burning.
Step 3: Cook the Gnocchi in Creamy Sauce
Next, add the gnocchi directly into the skillet—no pre-boiling necessary. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, then stir everything together to combine. Bring the mix to a gentle simmer, cover the skillet, and cook for 5 to 6 minutes. This allows the gnocchi to become tender as they soak up the flavorful sauce. It’s a one-pan wonder that makes cleanup just as satisfying as the meal.
Step 4: Combine and Finish the Dish
Remove the lid, then fold the browned chicken pieces back into the skillet along with the Parmesan cheese and baby spinach. Stir everything together and cook another 2 to 3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the sauce thickens slightly, coating every bit of gnocchi and chicken. Taste and season with extra salt, black pepper, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. At this point, your skillet is bursting with rich, creamy goodness—ready to be served and savored.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe to Savor Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this hearty dish, a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color and a bright, fresh flavor that cuts through the richness beautifully. If you like a touch of spice, a dusting of red pepper flakes brings a subtle kick that pairs perfectly with the garlic cream sauce.
Side Dishes
Keep it simple with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or serve alongside roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts. A warm crusty bread or garlic bread is also fantastic for soaking up every last bit of the creamy sauce—trust me, you’ll want to savor every drop.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy family dinner, serve the skillet straight from the pan at the table for a rustic feel. If hosting friends, portion it into individual shallow bowls and garnish each with fresh parsley and freshly ground black pepper for an inviting, restaurant-style presentation. For a fun twist, add a handful of crispy bacon bits or swap the spinach for kale to change the texture and flavor slightly.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe to Savor Recipe stores brilliantly in the refrigerator. Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and keep them chilled for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making the next-day meal just as delicious.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, the cream sauce and gnocchi can separate or soften too much. If you want to freeze, separate components by storing the cooked chicken and sauce apart from the gnocchi, then combine after thawing for best texture.
Reheating
Gently reheat leftovers in a skillet over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce thickens too much during reheating. Avoid microwaving at high power, which can make the gnocchi gummy—slow and steady wins the race here!
FAQs
Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen gnocchi works wonderfully in this skillet recipe since they cook through nicely in the sauce without needing pre-boiling. Just add them directly to the skillet as directed.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a bit of flour to thicken, but the sauce won’t be quite as rich and creamy. For that signature indulgent texture, heavy cream is best.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based protein, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The creamy garlic sauce still shines wonderfully.
How spicy is the dish?
The base recipe is mild, but you can easily add red pepper flakes to adjust the heat to your liking. It’s a flexible dish that caters to both gentle and bold palates.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without drying out the chicken?
Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream to keep the sauce moist. Avoid high heat to prevent the chicken from becoming tough.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe to Savor Recipe is a total keeper for anyone craving a cozy, flavorful meal with minimal fuss but maximum enjoyment. From the tender chicken to the pillowy gnocchi swimming in luscious sauce, every bite invites you to slow down and savor the moment. Give this recipe a try—you’ll find it quickly becoming a beloved staple in your cooking rotation!
Print
Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe to Savor Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Description
A comforting and creamy garlic chicken gnocchi skillet that’s perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner. Tender chicken pieces are sautéed and combined with soft potato gnocchi in a rich, cheesy garlic cream sauce, wilted spinach, and a hint of Parmesan. This one-pan dish is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
Chicken and Base
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Main Ingredients
- 1 (16 oz) package potato gnocchi
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups baby spinach
Seasonings and Garnishes
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté the chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then sauté them for 6–8 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the aromatics: Using the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the diced onion and cook for about 3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the gnocchi and liquids: Add the potato gnocchi directly to the skillet, followed by the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Simmer the gnocchi: Cover the skillet and cook for 5–6 minutes, or until the gnocchi are tender and have absorbed some of the sauce.
- Combine chicken and finish: Uncover the skillet and stir in the cooked chicken, grated Parmesan cheese, and baby spinach. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the sauce thickens.
- Season and garnish: Taste and season with additional salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Store-bought shelf-stable, refrigerated, or frozen gnocchi can be used—no need to pre-boil.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle crispy bacon bits on top before serving.
- Swap spinach with kale if preferred for a different leafy green.
