If you’re on the lookout for a weeknight dinner that’s both comforting and packed with flavor, let me introduce you to the 30-Minute Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe. This dish brings together tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a luscious garlic-infused creamy sauce that’s incredibly satisfying. It’s the kind of meal that feels fancy without demanding hours in the kitchen, making it perfect for busy evenings when you want something delicious on the table fast. Trust me, once you try this skillet dinner, it will quickly become one of your go-to family favorites!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic in this 30-Minute Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe comes from simple, quality ingredients that each have their starring moment. From the tender chicken pieces to the creamy Parmesan cheese, every component plays a vital role in building up the rich flavors and inviting textures you’ll love.
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts (1 lb): Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking and juicy tenderness.
- Potato gnocchi (1 lb): Soft, pillowy dumplings that soak up the garlic cream sauce perfectly.
- Garlic (6 cloves, minced): Because with garlic, you can never have too much — it gives the sauce its irresistible aroma and depth.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Creates a rich, velvety sauce that wraps the gnocchi and chicken in pure comfort.
- Chicken broth (1 cup): Adds savory layers and helps create that flavorful base for simmering the gnocchi.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (½ cup): Melts into the sauce to add nutty, salty goodness.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp): For sautéing the chicken and garlic with just the right amount of golden crispiness.
- Dried Italian herbs (1 tsp): A fragrant mix that complements the garlic and brings a hint of rustic charm.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste – essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
- Fresh basil leaves: For garnish, adding a pop of color and a fresh, herbal finish.
How to Make 30-Minute Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season your bite-sized chicken pieces generously with salt, pepper, and dried Italian herbs. Add them to the hot skillet, and cook until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. This step takes about 6-8 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside to keep warm. This searing step locks in juices and builds a flavorful base for your dish.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In the same skillet, toss in all that fragrant minced garlic. Sauté it for about 30 seconds to release its wonderful aroma. Just be careful not to let it burn — a quick stir is all it takes to unlock that signature garlic flavor that elevates this skillet meal to the next level.
Step 3: Build the Sauce and Simmer Gnocchi
Next, pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up all those tasty browned bits stuck to the bottom. These little flavor bombs bring a delicious richness to your sauce. Then, add the potato gnocchi to the skillet and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Cook the gnocchi for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and absorb that broth-y goodness.
Step 4: Add Cream and Thicken the Sauce
Turn the heat down to medium-low, and pour in the heavy cream. Gently stir the mixture to combine everything evenly. Let the sauce simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken just enough to coat every bite with luscious creaminess. This step transforms the skillet into a dreamy, comforting meal foundation.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Parmesan Cheese
Return the cooked chicken pieces back to the skillet and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Stir everything together until the cheese melts into the sauce, and the chicken is warmed through. Now’s the perfect moment to taste your creation and adjust salt and pepper as needed — remember, a little tweak here can bring the whole dish to life!
How to Serve 30-Minute Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves are my personal favorite to finish this dish. Their bright green color adds a beautiful contrast, and their slightly sweet, herbal notes brighten the richness of the creamy sauce. If you want extra flair, sprinkle a bit of additional grated Parmesan or a pinch of crushed red pepper for some gentle heat.
Side Dishes
This skillet meal is hearty enough to stand tall on its own, but sides like a crisp green salad or steamed veggies add a refreshing balance. Roasted asparagus or garlic sautéed spinach complement the garlicky flavors without overpowering them. A crusty bread on the side also helps scoop up every last bit of that delicious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this skillet straight from the pan for a cozy, rustic vibe that’s perfect for casual dinners. For a dinner party, spoon the gnocchi and chicken onto warmed plates and add a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley for a touch of elegance. A drizzle of good quality olive oil over the finished dish can also add a lovely sheen and enhance the flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (which may not last long!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The creamy sauce can thicken as it chills, so give it a gentle stir before reheating to help everything come back together smoothly.
Freezing
This dish can be frozen, but keep in mind that potato gnocchi’s texture might change slightly after thawing. Pack your leftover chicken and sauce tightly in freezer-safe containers and use within 2 months for best flavor and texture.
Reheating
Reheat the skillet meal gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the cream from separating. Alternatively, a short microwave session with a splash of cream or broth stirred in can refresh the sauce and keep the gnocchi tender.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a bit more richness and stay juicy, making this dish even more flavorful. Just adjust cooking time slightly to make sure they’re cooked through.
Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew-based cream, and use a dairy-free cheese alternative. The flavor will be a bit different, but still delicious!
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely. Just swap out the regular potato gnocchi for a certified gluten-free version available at many grocery stores. Check labels to be sure there’s no gluten lurking in other ingredients.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter option, half-and-half or whole milk works well. The sauce won’t be as rich but will still be creamy and delicious.
Can this recipe be doubled for a larger crowd?
Yes, it scales up nicely! Just use a larger skillet or cook in batches to make sure everything gets cooked evenly and has room to brown properly.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a dish that feels both indulgent and homey, and the 30-Minute Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe hits that sweet spot perfectly. Whether you’re feeding family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe offers quick, comforting satisfaction with every bite. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and discover just how simple magic in the kitchen can be!
Print
30-Minute Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Italian
Description
This 30-Minute Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a hearty and comforting one-pan meal combining tender chicken pieces, pillowy gnocchi, and a creamy garlic sauce enhanced with Parmesan cheese and Italian herbs. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish balances rich flavors and satisfying textures in just half an hour.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Carbohydrates
- 1 lb potato gnocchi
Produce
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Dairy
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Liquids
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Herbs & Spices
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, and dried Italian herbs. Cook for 6-8 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Sauté garlic: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant without burning.
- Deglaze skillet: Pour in chicken broth and scrape up browned bits from the bottom with a wooden spoon to enhance flavor.
- Cook gnocchi: Add gnocchi to the skillet, bring to a simmer, and cook 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until gnocchi starts to become tender.
- Add cream and simmer: Lower heat to medium-low. Stir in heavy cream gently and simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine chicken and cheese: Return cooked chicken to skillet and stir in grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until cheese melts and chicken is heated through.
- Season and serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk.
- To make gluten-free, use gluten-free gnocchi available at many grocery stores.
- Be careful not to burn the garlic to avoid bitterness.
- This dish can be easily customized by adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms.
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