Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Description

This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a hearty, comforting, and one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights! Golden-browned gnocchi and tender chicken are cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce with a hint of cream, making every bite indulgent yet simple to prepare. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, this skillet is perfect for a cozy dinner that the whole family will love.

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Ingredients

Serves 4 | Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes | Total: 30 minutes

• 1 pound chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 pound potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken:
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Add to the skillet and cook 5–6 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
2. Cook the Gnocchi:
   In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add gnocchi and cook 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly golden.
3. Add Garlic & Seasoning:
   Stir in minced garlic and Italian seasoning. Cook 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Make the Sauce:
   Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in Parmesan cheese.
5. Combine & Add Spinach:
   Return cooked chicken to the skillet. Add fresh spinach if using and stir until wilted and everything is coated in creamy sauce.
6. Serve:
   Garnish with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan if desired. Serve hot directly from the skillet.

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Tips for the Best Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

• Golden gnocchi: Don’t overcrowd the skillet when browning gnocchi — work in batches if needed.
• Cheesy creaminess: Stir in Parmesan gradually for a smooth, creamy sauce.
• Add veggies: Mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or bell peppers are great additions.
• One-pan cleanup: Use a non-stick or cast-iron skillet for best results and easy cleaning.

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Variations

• Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Pesto Twist: Stir in 2 tablespoons of basil pesto for extra flavor.
• Chicken Alternatives: Use cooked sausage or shrimp instead of chicken.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut cream or a plant-based cream substitute and dairy-free Parmesan.

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FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen gnocchi?
A: Yes! No need to thaw; cook slightly longer if needed.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: You can prep chicken and sauce in advance, but gnocchi is best cooked fresh for texture.

Q: How can I make it healthier?
A: Use whole wheat gnocchi, reduce cream, or substitute with half-and-half or milk.

Q: Can I add more vegetables?
A: Absolutely! Zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers pair wonderfully with this dish.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Pair with a glass of white wine, like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio.
• Leftovers reheat well in a skillet or microwave for a quick lunch.