A one-pan wonder, this Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet combines tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and a rich garlic sauce for a delightful meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, this dish is both indulgent and satisfying. The creamy texture and savory flavors make it a standout choice for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for hectic evenings.
- One-Pan Wonder: Fewer dishes mean less cleanup, allowing you to enjoy your meal without the hassle.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic, cream, and Parmesan creates a deliciously creamy sauce that elevates the dish.
- Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite vegetables or herbs to make it your own.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the comforting flavors of this creamy skillet dish.
Tools and Preparation
To make the Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: A must-have for even cooking and easy mixing of all ingredients in one pan.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware, ensuring smooth sauce blending.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors in your dish.
Ingredients
For this delicious dish, gather the following ingredients:
For the Chicken
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
For the Gnocchi
- 1 lb potato gnocchi, fresh or store-bought
For the Sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream, or dairy-free alternative
- ½ cup chicken broth, or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil, or unsalted butter
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Optional Add-ins
- 1 cup spinach or kale
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes
How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add the bite-sized chicken pieces. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 2: Cook the Gnocchi
While the chicken is cooking, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the potato gnocchi. Cook according to package instructions (usually about 2-3 minutes). They are ready when they float to the surface. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
Once the chicken is cooked through, add minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir well to combine.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Add cooked gnocchi to the skillet along with grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. If using spinach or kale, fold them in at this stage. Mix everything gently until well combined.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Allow everything to simmer together for another 2-3 minutes until heated through. Adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm with extra Parmesan on top if desired!
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet
This dish is versatile and can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether you want a simple presentation or something more elaborate, here are some serving suggestions.
With Fresh Herbs
- Sprinkle fresh parsley or basil on top for a burst of flavor and color.
Side Salad
- A light side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette complements the richness of the skillet.
Garlic Bread
- Serve with crusty garlic bread to soak up the delicious creamy sauce.
Grated Cheese
- Offer extra grated Parmesan cheese on the side for those who love an extra cheesy touch.
Lemon Wedges
- Add lemon wedges for a citrusy zing that balances the creaminess of the dish.
How to Perfect Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet
To achieve the best results with your Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality chicken broth enhance the flavors significantly.
- Cook Gnocchi Properly: Ensure gnocchi is cooked according to package instructions for perfect texture—al dente is best!
- Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to reach your desired consistency.
- Season Generously: Taste as you cook and adjust salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to suit your palate.
- Incorporate Greens: Adding spinach or kale not only boosts nutrition but also adds color and texture.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps flavors meld together beautifully.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet
Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:
Steamed Broccoli
A simple steamed broccoli adds vibrant color and nutrients without overpowering flavors.Roasted Asparagus
Lightly seasoned roasted asparagus brings a delightful crunch and complements creamy textures well.Caesar Salad
A classic Caesar salad offers crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and parmesan, balancing rich flavors.Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Creamy garlic mashed potatoes create a comforting combination that’s perfect for hearty meals.Zucchini Noodles
For a lighter option, zucchini noodles provide freshness that contrasts nicely with the creamy gnocchi.Quinoa Salad
A quinoa salad mixed with diced vegetables adds protein and fiber while keeping it healthy and filling.Herbed Rice Pilaf
Fluffy herbed rice pilaf can soak up extra sauce while providing a flavorful base for your meal.Caprese Skewers
Fresh mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic vinegar make an appealing appetizer or side.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common pitfalls can help ensure your Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet turns out perfectly every time. Here are some mistakes to watch for:
Bold preparation: Neglecting to prep ingredients ahead of time can lead to chaos in the kitchen. Chop your garlic, chicken, and any vegetables before you start cooking.
Bold overcooking: Cooking the gnocchi too long can make them mushy. Follow package instructions or watch closely to ensure they’re tender but not falling apart.
Bold seasoning mishaps: Forgetting to taste and adjust seasoning can leave your dish bland. Always taste as you go and adjust salt, pepper, and spices to enhance flavor.
Bold rushing the sauce: Allowing the sauce to simmer properly is key for a rich flavor. Don’t skip this step; let it thicken slightly for the best consistency.
Bold ignoring storage tips: Not storing leftovers correctly can compromise freshness. Make sure to use airtight containers and refrigerate promptly.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- They will keep well for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet
- This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
Reheating Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring in between until hot.
- Stovetop: Reheat on medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making the Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet:
Can I use other proteins in Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet?
Yes! Feel free to substitute chicken with beef, turkey, or lamb according to your preference.
What if I want a dairy-free version of Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet?
You can easily swap heavy cream for a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream for a creamy texture without dairy.
How do I add more veggies to my Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet?
You can include spinach, kale, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Just add them when sautéing the garlic for extra flavor!
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace chicken with mushrooms or a plant-based protein and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Final Thoughts
The Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a delightful one-pan meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Its creamy sauce and tender pieces of chicken make it comforting and satisfying. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins. Try this recipe today and enjoy the delicious flavors!
Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet
Indulge in the comforting flavors of our Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet—a delightful one-pan wonder that combines tender chicken and fluffy gnocchi enveloped in a rich garlic cream sauce. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, providing both warmth and satisfaction in every bite. With its creamy texture and savory notes, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Plus, it’s easily customizable with your choice of veggies or herbs, making it versatile for any occasion.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 lb potato gnocchi, fresh or store-bought
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream or dairy-free alternative
- ½ cup chicken broth or vegetable broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 cup spinach or kale (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and cook the chicken pieces until golden brown (5-7 minutes). Season with salt and pepper.
- Meanwhile, boil salted water and cook the gnocchi according to package instructions (about 2-3 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet with chicken; sauté for about 1 minute. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well.
- Mix cooked gnocchi into the skillet along with Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. If using spinach or kale, fold them in now.
- Allow to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through. Adjust seasoning if needed before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approx. 250g)
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: For added nutrition, incorporate your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. To make this dish vegetarian-friendly, substitute chicken with mushrooms or a plant-based protein and use vegetable broth.
