Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe

Introduction

Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a rich, comforting, and delicious dish that brings together tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a creamy garlic-infused sauce. This one-pan meal is packed with flavor and is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty and satisfying without spending too much time in the kitchen. The combination of crispy chicken, soft gnocchi, and the garlicky cream sauce creates a balance of textures and flavors that will please everyone at the table.

Not only is this recipe quick to prepare, but it also offers versatility to fit various tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal on a chilly evening or trying to impress your family or friends, Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is the perfect choice. This guide will walk you through the steps to create this dish, offer tips for success, and even include a few variations to try.

Why You’ll Love Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

• Flavor-Packed: The garlic cream sauce adds a depth of flavor, complemented by the subtle richness of the chicken and the comforting texture of the gnocchi.
• Quick and Easy: This skillet meal is ready in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight dinner or a go-to recipe when you’re short on time but still want something delicious.
• One-Pan Meal: With everything cooked in one pan, this recipe minimizes clean-up while still delivering big flavor and filling portions.
• Comforting and Hearty: Between the tender chicken, creamy sauce, and soft gnocchi, this dish is the definition of comfort food.
• Customizable: The recipe allows for some flexibility in terms of ingredients. You can swap the chicken for shrimp, add extra vegetables, or even make it a vegetarian dish by omitting the chicken entirely.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 550-600 calories per serving, depending on portion sizes and specific ingredients used.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 550-600 kcal
• Fat: 25-30g
• Carbohydrates: 45-50g
• Protein: 30-35g
• Fiber: 2-3g
• Sugar: 4-6g

Ingredients

For the Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking the chicken)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 (16 oz) package potato gnocchi (fresh or shelf-stable)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (low-sodium)
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional: 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a little heat)

Special Equipment

This recipe requires basic kitchen equipment, but having the following tools will help ensure everything goes smoothly:

1. Large Skillet: A large, non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan works best for this dish. It provides enough surface area to cook the chicken and prepare the sauce without overcrowding.
2. Knife and Cutting Board: A sharp knife will make it easier to chop the chicken and garlic. A sturdy cutting board helps with safe and efficient prep work.
3. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are important, especially for ingredients like the chicken broth, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese, which can all impact the final flavor and texture.
4. Tongs or Spatula: These tools will help you flip the chicken while cooking and stir the ingredients in the skillet without breaking them apart.
5. Pot for Cooking Gnocchi: If using fresh gnocchi, you’ll need a pot of boiling water to cook the gnocchi. A large pot or saucepan works well for this task.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken

Start by preparing the chicken. Pat the chicken breasts (or thighs) dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Season both sides with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest.

2. Prepare the Gnocchi

While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to the package instructions, typically for about 2-3 minutes, or until the gnocchi float to the surface. Once cooked, drain the gnocchi and set aside. If you’re using shelf-stable gnocchi, be sure to follow the instructions for best results.

3. Make the Garlic Cream Sauce

In the same skillet that you cooked the chicken in, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. You want the garlic to become fragrant, not browned.

Next, pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release any flavorful browned bits left from the chicken. Let the broth simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.

Add the heavy cream to the skillet and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken. You’ll notice the sauce starting to coat the back of a spoon.

4. Combine the Chicken, Gnocchi, and Sauce

Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and butter. Continue stirring until the cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed. For a little heat, you can add red pepper flakes at this stage.

Slice the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and return it to the skillet. Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet as well. Gently stir everything together to combine, making sure the gnocchi and chicken are coated in the creamy sauce. Let everything cook together for an additional 2-3 minutes to ensure it’s heated through.

5. Serve and Garnish

Once everything is combined and heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for color and added flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet!

Tips for Perfect Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

• Use Fresh Chicken: For the best flavor, use fresh boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. If you only have frozen chicken, be sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
• Adjust the Sauce Thickness: If the sauce is too thick for your liking, add a little more chicken broth or cream to loosen it up. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to thicken.
• Don’t Overcook the Garlic: Garlic can burn easily, so be sure to sauté it just until fragrant. Overcooked garlic can turn bitter and negatively affect the flavor of the sauce.
• Use High-Quality Parmesan: The flavor of the Parmesan cheese really shines through in this dish, so using freshly grated cheese will give you the best results.
• Customize the Vegetables: For extra flavor and nutrients, add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet. Simply sauté them with the garlic before adding the cream and broth.
• Make It Lighter: If you want to reduce the calorie count, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and consider using a smaller amount of Parmesan cheese. You can also swap the chicken for shrimp or turkey for a leaner option.

Variations of Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

• Shrimp and Gnocchi Skillet: Swap out the chicken for shrimp for a seafood twist on this classic dish. Shrimp cooks quickly, so be sure to sauté it separately and add it to the skillet once the sauce is ready.
• Vegetarian Gnocchi Skillet: Skip the chicken and create a rich vegetarian version by adding extra vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Bacon and Chicken Gnocchi Skillet: For a smoky, savory twist, cook a few strips of bacon until crispy, then chop it up and stir it into the skillet just before serving. The bacon adds a nice crunch and depth of flavor to the dish.
• Spicy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet: For those who love heat, add some fresh chopped chili peppers or more red pepper flakes to the sauce for an extra kick.

Storage and Shelf Life

Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days in an airtight container. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to help loosen up the sauce and keep the gnocchi from becoming too dry. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently.

This dish can also be frozen, though the texture of the gnocchi may change slightly once thawed. To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove with a little added cream or broth.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

• Green Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a fresh contrast to the rich, creamy skillet. Try a simple arugula or mixed greens salad.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or carrots make a wonderful side dish. Their caramelized flavors pair beautifully with the creamy gnocchi.
• Garlic Bread: A side of warm, toasted garlic bread is always a good choice to scoop up any remaining sauce from the skillet.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers a healthy and vibrant addition that balances the richness of the dish.

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Conclusion

Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary. With tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a creamy garlic sauce, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. It’s quick, easy, and bursting with flavor—ideal for weeknight meals or special occasions. Whether you follow the traditional recipe or explore some of the fun variations, this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is guaranteed to impress. Enjoy!