Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

If you’re looking for a quick and comforting meal that brings the whole family together, then this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is exactly what you need! In just 30 minutes, you can create a delicious dish that combines tender chicken with pillowy gnocchi in a creamy garlic sauce. This recipe has become a beloved favorite in my home, and I think it will be in yours too!

Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this skillet meal is not just easy to make but also easily customizable to suit everyone’s taste. You’ll love how the rich flavors come together so effortlessly, making it a wonderful option for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Make: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves gnocchi! This dish is bound to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Creamy Goodness: The luscious garlic cream sauce makes every bite feel indulgent.
• Customizable: Easily swap ingredients based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.
• One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup means more time enjoying your meal and less time washing dishes!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You don’t need fancy ingredients to whip up this tasty dish! These simple, wholesome items are likely already in your pantry or fridge. Let’s gather everything we need for our Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet!

For the Main Dish

• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 lb potato gnocchi
• 6 cloves garlic, minced (because there’s no such thing as too much garlic!)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried Italian herbs
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Variations

This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is wonderfully flexible. Feel free to play around with the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand!

• Swap the protein: Use turkey or tofu instead of chicken for a different twist!
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper if you like a little heat.
• Change the cheese: Try mozzarella or feta instead of Parmesan for a unique flavor profile.

How to Make Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season them with salt, pepper, and dried Italian herbs. Cooking until golden brown (about 6-8 minutes) ensures that they develop a lovely crust while staying juicy inside. Once done, set the chicken aside while we build our sauce!

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In that same skillet, add your minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn; we want that sweet garlic aroma without any bitterness. This step is crucial because it sets the foundation of flavors for our creamy sauce.

Step 3: Create the Sauce Base

Pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. These little flavor gems will enhance our sauce significantly! Let it simmer gently while we prepare to add our gnocchi.

Step 4: Cook the Gnocchi

Add the gnocchi to the skillet and bring everything to a simmer. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until they start becoming tender. The gnocchi will soak up all those delicious flavors from our garlic and broth!

Step 5: Add Creamy Goodness

Reduce the heat to medium-low and pour in that rich heavy cream. Stir gently to combine everything and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes until your sauce thickens beautifully. This creamy layer is what makes this dish so comforting!

Step 6: Combine Everything

Now it’s time to bring back our cooked chicken along with grated Parmesan cheese into the skillet. Stir everything together until the cheese melts into that beautiful sauce, enveloping each piece of chicken and gnocchi. It’s like a warm hug on your plate!

Step 7: Taste and Adjust

Finally, taste your creation! Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed—remember, you can always add more but can’t take it away. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Enjoy your delightful Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet with loved ones around the table!

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Creating this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a breeze, but a few pro tips can elevate your dish to the next level!

• Use fresh garlic: Freshly minced garlic packs a punch of flavor that dried garlic simply can’t match, giving your dish that vibrant kick it needs.

• Cook gnocchi until they float: When the gnocchi are cooked properly, they’ll float to the surface of the simmering broth. This indicates they’re done and ensures a delightful texture in your dish.

• Adjust the creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, feel free to reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute with a plant-based alternative like cashew cream for a creamy yet dairy-free option.

• Add veggies for color and nutrition: Consider tossing in some spinach, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes during the cooking process. This not only enhances flavor but also boosts nutritional value and makes your skillet look even more appealing.

• Finish with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley just before serving adds brightness and freshness to the dish, making it even more delightful.

How to Serve Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Presenting your Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet beautifully can make mealtime feel extra special. Here are some ideas to help you serve it up right!

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: These not only add a pop of color but also enhance the aroma and flavor profile of your dish.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: A light sprinkle on top just before serving brings an extra layer of richness.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Crispy and buttery garlic bread complements the creamy sauce and is perfect for dipping!
• Mixed green salad: A refreshing salad with vinaigrette balances out the richness of the skillet, adding crispness and crunch.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers roasted until tender provide a nutritious side that pairs beautifully.
• Steamed broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients while being easy to prepare alongside your skillet meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re well on your way to impressing everyone at the dinner table! Enjoy every comforting bite of this delightful Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a fantastic option for meal prep. Not only does it come together quickly, but it’s also easy to store and reheat, making it perfect for busy weeknights!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet cool entirely.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Note: The gnocchi may change texture slightly upon thawing.

Reheating

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if necessary.
• Heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about the Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet.

Can I make Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet with gluten-free gnocchi?

Absolutely! You can substitute regular gnocchi with gluten-free versions available at many grocery stores. The cooking method remains the same.

What can I serve with Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet?

This dish is quite filling on its own. However, a simple side salad or steamed vegetables can complement it nicely without overshadowing the delicious flavors.

How long does Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, it can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet as much as I do! It’s such a comforting dish that brings together rich flavors and satisfying textures. Perfect for any night of the week, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences or modifications!