Create a Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet in Just 30 Minutes

Get ready to experience a flavor explosion in your kitchen with the irresistible Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet. This one-pan wonder combines the savory goodness of tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and the aromatic punch of garlic, all cooked to creamy perfection. Whether you’re craving a comforting weeknight meal or want to impress your guests, this recipe is sure to become a new family favorite.

Table of Contents

Ingredients That Make the Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Shine

The key to this delectable dish lies in the carefully selected ingredients. Let’s take a closer look at what goes into making the Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet so mouthwatering:

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts provide a lean protein that sears up beautifully and absorbs all the flavors.
• Gnocchi: These delightful potato dumplings add a soft, pillowy texture that perfectly complements the other elements of the dish.
• Garlic: Six cloves of minced garlic are the star of the show, infusing the entire skillet with their distinctive aroma and flavor.
• Heavy Cream: This rich, velvety ingredient creates a creamy sauce that coats every bite.
• Chicken Broth: The broth helps deglaze the pan and adds depth to the overall sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan cheese lends a savory, umami note and a luxurious creaminess to the dish.
• Olive Oil: A touch of olive oil is used to sear the chicken and sauté the garlic.
• Herbs: Dried Italian herbs, such as oregano, basil, and thyme, infuse the skillet with aromatic, earthy flavors.
• Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings like salt and freshly ground black pepper enhance the other flavors and bring the entire dish into perfect balance.
• Fresh Basil: Chopped basil leaves add a bright, herbaceous finish and a pop of color to the final presentation.

Step-by-Step Guide to Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Perfection

Ready to bring this mouthwatering dish to life? Follow these simple steps for a Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet that’s sure to impress:

1. 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. Cook the chicken until it’s golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
2. In the same skillet, sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds, being careful not to let it burn.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This will add a deeper layer of flavor to the dish.
4. Add the gnocchi to the skillet and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gnocchi starts to become tender.
5. Reduce the heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream. Gently stir to combine and let the sauce simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken.
6. Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet, along with the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together until the cheese has melted and the chicken is heated through.
7. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
8. Garnish the Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet with fresh chopped basil leaves for a vibrant, restaurant-worthy finish.

Tips for Perfecting Your Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

To ensure your Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:

• Gnocchi Choice: You can use either store-bought or homemade gnocchi for this recipe. Store-bought gnocchi is a convenient option, but homemade gnocchi can offer a fresher, more delicate texture.
• Chicken Seasoning: Be sure to season the chicken generously with salt, pepper, and the dried Italian herbs before searing it. This will help the chicken develop a delicious golden-brown crust.
• Sauce Consistency: Adjust the amount of heavy cream to achieve your desired sauce consistency. For a thicker, creamier sauce, use a bit less cream; for a thinner, more pourable sauce, add a bit more.
• Vegetable Additions: Feel free to toss in some fresh spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted bell peppers to add extra nutrition and flavor to the dish.
• Dairy-Free Option: If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, you can substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a non-dairy milk alternative, and use a dairy-free Parmesan cheese substitute.

Pairing Suggestions for Your Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Wondering what to serve alongside your Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet? Here are some delightful pairing suggestions:

• Fresh Salads: A crisp Caesar salad or a classic Caprese salad with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil would make a perfect accompaniment.
• Crusty Bread: Garlic bread or a warm, crusty roll are excellent for sopping up the flavorful sauce.
• Wines: For a cozy, Italian-inspired pairing, consider a medium-bodied red wine like a Chianti or Montepulciano. For a lighter touch, a dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc would also pair beautifully.

Storing and Reheating Your Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Fortunately, the Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a dish that holds up well to leftovers. Here’s how to store and reheat it for future enjoyment:

• Refrigerator Storage: Store any leftover Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, simply place the leftover skillet in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, checking and stirring at 30-second intervals until warmed.
• Freezer Storage: For longer-term storage, you can freeze the Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the skillet in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Can I prepare Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare components of the Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet ahead of time to save on cooking time. You can cook the chicken and gnocchi in advance, then store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken and gnocchi in a skillet, add the garlic and cream sauce, and mix until heated through. This method helps maintain the dish’s texture and flavor. However, it’s best to cook the dish fresh for optimal taste and creaminess.

What type of gnocchi should I use for this recipe?

For the Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet, you can use either store-bought or homemade gnocchi. Store-bought gnocchi is convenient and saves time, and options like potato gnocchi or ricotta gnocchi are widely available. If you prefer to make your own, homemade gnocchi can offer a fresher taste and better texture. Regardless of your choice, ensure the gnocchi is fresh and cooked according to package instructions for the best results in your skillet dish.

Can I make Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet in a slow cooker?

While this dish is traditionally made on the stovetop for quick preparation, you can adapt it for a slow cooker. To do this, sauté the chicken and garlic in a pan first, then transfer them to the slow cooker along with the gnocchi, chicken broth, and seasonings. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. Add the heavy cream and cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking to maintain their flavor and texture. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully while providing a hands-off cooking experience.

How can I adjust the spice level in Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet?

If you want to add some heat to your Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or chopped fresh chili peppers while sautéing the garlic. Start with a small amount and adjust to your taste as you cook. Alternatively, you can add a dash of hot sauce or serve it with a spicy condiment on the side. For those preferring a milder version, simply omit any spicy ingredients and focus on the flavorful herbs and garlic to enhance the dish.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine with Garlic Cajun Butter
• Creamy Garlic Boneless Pork Chops
• Garlic Butter Pork Chops

Dive into the comforting flavors of the Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet and enjoy a delicious one-pan meal that’s sure to become a new family favorite. With its perfect balance of creamy, garlicky goodness and tender chicken and gnocchi, this dish is a true culinary delight. Bon appétit!

For more snack ideas and kitchen inspiration, follow me on Pinterest.

Print