There are certain dinners that feel like a warm hug at the end of a long day, and this One Skillet Garlic Chicken Gnocchi is exactly that kind of meal. It’s the perfect choice for cozy weeknights, relaxed family dinners, or those evenings when you want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. The aroma of garlic sizzling in a skillet instantly sets the mood, filling your home with the promise of a satisfying, hearty dish.
This recipe was inspired by the idea that great food doesn’t need to be complicated. With tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a rich, garlicky sauce all coming together in one pan, it reflects the beauty of simple ingredients cooked with care. Whether you’re cooking for loved ones or treating yourself to a comforting homemade dinner, this dish delivers warmth, flavor, and ease in every bite.
Why This One Skillet Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Is a Favorite
One-pan meals have a special place in home cooking, and this recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it minimizes cleanup, which is always a win. Second, it layers flavors beautifully, allowing the chicken, garlic, and gnocchi to absorb every bit of richness from the skillet. Finally, it’s incredibly versatile, making it easy to adapt to your taste or what you have on hand.
The combination of soft gnocchi and juicy chicken creates a balanced texture that feels indulgent yet comforting. Garlic forms the backbone of the dish, while cream and broth come together to create a sauce that’s silky without being heavy. It’s the kind of recipe that feels special enough for guests but simple enough for a busy weekday.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Using quality ingredients makes all the difference in a simple dish like this. Below is everything you’ll need, with precise measurements to ensure consistent results.
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 tablespoon unsalted butter
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1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
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1 teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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1 teaspoon paprika
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
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1 cup heavy cream
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1 pound shelf-stable potato gnocchi
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½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
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½ teaspoon garlic powder
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¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
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1 cup fresh spinach leaves
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2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
How to Make One Skillet Garlic Chicken Gnocchi
This recipe is designed to be straightforward and forgiving, making it approachable for cooks of all skill levels while still delivering a dish that feels rich and thoughtfully prepared. Each step builds on the previous one, layering flavor and texture so that by the time everything comes together, the skillet is filled with a cohesive, comforting meal. Taking a little care at each stage ensures the final result is creamy, balanced, and full of savory depth.
Sear the Chicken
Begin by heating the olive oil and butter together in a large skillet over medium heat. The combination of oil and butter is important: the oil helps prevent burning, while the butter adds richness and flavor. Once the butter is melted and lightly bubbling, add the chicken pieces in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this allows the chicken to sear rather than steam.
Season the chicken evenly with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Let the chicken cook undisturbed for a couple of minutes to develop a golden crust, then stir occasionally to brown all sides. This step takes about 5 to 6 minutes, and it’s worth giving it your attention. Properly seared chicken adds both flavor and texture to the final dish. Once the chicken is cooked through and lightly golden, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. Leaving the browned bits in the pan is essential, as they form the foundation of the sauce.
Build the Garlic Base
With the skillet still over medium heat, add the minced garlic directly to the remaining fat and browned bits. Stir constantly for about 30 seconds, just until the garlic becomes fragrant. Garlic cooks quickly, and this short cooking time ensures it releases its aroma without browning. Burnt garlic can taste bitter, so keeping it moving and watching closely is key. This step infuses the skillet with a warm, savory base that carries through the entire dish.
Create the Sauce
Next, pour the chicken broth into the skillet. As it hits the hot pan, use a wooden spoon or spatula to gently scrape the bottom, lifting all the flavorful browned bits left behind by the chicken. These bits dissolve into the liquid, adding depth and richness to the sauce. Once the broth is incorporated, add the heavy cream, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them.
Stir everything together until smooth, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Avoid boiling the sauce, as high heat can cause the cream to separate. A gentle simmer allows the flavors to meld while keeping the sauce silky and cohesive.
Cook the Gnocchi
Add the gnocchi directly into the simmering sauce, stirring gently to ensure each piece is coated. Cooking the gnocchi in the sauce allows them to absorb flavor as they soften. Let them cook for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. As the gnocchi cook, the sauce will naturally begin to thicken, clinging to each piece and creating a creamy consistency without the need for additional thickeners.
Bring It All Together
Once the gnocchi are tender, return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with any juices that may have collected on the plate. Stir to combine, then sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and add the fresh spinach. Continue cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes, stirring gently, until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts smoothly into the sauce. At this stage, everything should be evenly coated and cohesive.
Finish and Serve
Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding a pinch of salt or pepper if desired. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the garlic chicken gnocchi hot, straight from the skillet, while the sauce is at its creamiest and most inviting.
Tips for the Best Results
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Use a wide, heavy-bottomed skillet to ensure even cooking.
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Freshly grated Parmesan melts better than pre-grated cheese.
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Don’t overcook the gnocchi; they should be tender but not mushy.
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Let the sauce simmer gently rather than boiling to maintain its creamy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of gnocchi for this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of gnocchi depending on availability and preference. Shelf-stable potato gnocchi work best for this one-skillet method because they cook quickly and absorb the sauce beautifully. If you choose refrigerated gnocchi, keep a close eye on cooking time, as they tend to cook even faster. Homemade gnocchi can also be used, but they are more delicate, so stir gently and reduce the simmering time slightly to prevent them from breaking apart.
2. How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick or too thin?
The consistency of the sauce depends largely on heat control and ingredient ratios. If the sauce becomes too thick, simply add a splash of chicken broth or cream and stir until it reaches your desired texture. If it’s too thin, let it simmer for an extra minute or two, allowing it to reduce naturally. Stirring in the Parmesan cheese gradually also helps thicken the sauce without overpowering the flavors.
3. Can this dish be made ahead of time?
This recipe is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be made ahead if needed. Allow the dish to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, use a skillet over low heat and add a small amount of cream or broth to revive the sauce. Stir gently to maintain the texture of the gnocchi and chicken.
4. What vegetables pair well with garlic chicken gnocchi?
While spinach is included in this recipe, other vegetables can be added or substituted based on taste. Mushrooms, zucchini, or sun-dried tomatoes complement the garlicky sauce well. If adding firmer vegetables, sauté them after cooking the chicken and before building the sauce to ensure they’re tender and flavorful. This flexibility makes the dish easy to customize for different seasons and preferences.
Serving Suggestions
This One Skillet Garlic Chicken Gnocchi is satisfying on its own, but pairing it with a simple side can elevate the meal. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the sauce. Warm flatbread or crusty bread is perfect for scooping up every last bit of creamy goodness from the skillet. For a complete dinner, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or steamed greens.
Final Thoughts
One Skillet Garlic Chicken Gnocchi is more than just a convenient dinner option; it’s a reminder that comfort food can be both simple and deeply satisfying. The beauty of this dish lies in how effortlessly it comes together, transforming everyday ingredients into something that feels indulgent and special. Each bite delivers tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and a creamy garlic sauce that coats everything perfectly.
What makes this recipe truly shine is its adaptability. It welcomes creativity, allowing you to adjust flavors, add vegetables, or tweak the seasoning to suit your taste. It’s the kind of dish that quickly becomes a household favorite, requested again and again because it never disappoints. The one-skillet approach also makes it ideal for busy lifestyles, proving that delicious home-cooked meals don’t have to be complicated.
Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting friends, or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, this garlic chicken gnocchi offers comfort and flavor in equal measure. It encourages you to slow down, savor the process, and enjoy the rewards of a meal made with care. Once you try it, it’s likely to earn a permanent spot in your dinner rotation, bringing warmth and satisfaction to your table every time.
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One Skillet Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Everyone Loves
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A creamy, comforting one-pan dinner made with tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and a rich garlic sauce that comes together quickly and easily.
Ingredients
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 tablespoon unsalted butter
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1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
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1 teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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1 teaspoon paprika
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
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1 cup heavy cream
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1 pound shelf-stable potato gnocchi
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½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
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½ teaspoon garlic powder
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¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
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1 cup fresh spinach leaves
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2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
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Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken, season, and cook until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
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Add garlic to the skillet and cook until fragrant.
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Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
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Add gnocchi and simmer until tender and the sauce thickens.
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Return chicken to the skillet, stir in Parmesan and spinach, and cook until creamy.
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Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Notes
Adjust sauce consistency with extra broth or cream if needed. Freshly grated Parmesan provides the best flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
