Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet: A 30-Minute Wonder!
A creamy, garlicky, and deliciously comforting dinner made in just 30 minutes! Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet: A 30-Minute Wonder! is the perfect dish for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. With tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and a rich cream sauce, this one-pan meal is sure to impress. It’s simple yet flavorful and can easily become a family favorite that suits various occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This dish can be ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
- One-Pan Meal: Minimal cleanup required since everything cooks in a single skillet.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic, cream, and Parmesan creates a deliciously rich sauce that elevates the dish.
- Versatile Ingredients: Use whatever fresh herbs you have on hand to customize flavors to your liking.
- Satisfying Comfort Food: Perfect for cozy dinners when you want something hearty and comforting.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking, gather the essential tools for making your Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet. These will help streamline the cooking process and ensure great results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: A spacious skillet allows you to cook chicken evenly while providing enough room for gnocchi and sauce.
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your non-stick pan while scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom.

Ingredients
To create this delightful Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet, gather the following ingredients:
For the Chicken and Gnocchi
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 lb potato gnocchi
For the Sauce
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
How to Make Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet: A 30-Minute Wonder!
Follow these easy steps to prepare your delicious Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet.
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken pieces. Season with salt, pepper, and dried Italian herbs.
- Cook until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic.
- Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it.
Step 3: Add Broth and Gnocchi
- Pour in the chicken broth.
- Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Add the gnocchi to the skillet and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gnocchi starts to become tender.
Step 4: Create Creamy Sauce
- Reduce heat to medium-low.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir gently to combine.
- Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce starts to thicken.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Cheese
- Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet along with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Stir everything together until cheese is melted and chicken is heated through.
Step 6: Adjust Seasoning
- Taste your dish and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
Now you’re ready to serve this wonderful meal! Enjoy your Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet with fresh basil leaves on top as a garnish for that extra touch!
How to Serve Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet: A 30-Minute Wonder!
Serving garlic chicken gnocchi skillet is as easy as it is delicious. This creamy dish pairs well with a variety of sides and garnishes that enhance its flavor and presentation.
Fresh Herbs
- Basil Leaves – Scatter fresh basil over the top for a burst of flavor and color.
- Parsley – Chopped parsley adds a fresh, vibrant touch that complements the creamy sauce.
Grated Cheese
- Parmesan – Offer extra grated Parmesan on the side for those who love a cheesy finish.
- Mozzarella – Fresh mozzarella can be added for an extra creamy texture.
Bread Options
- Garlic Bread – Serve warm garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Crusty Baguette – A slice of crusty baguette pairs perfectly with this dish, adding a nice crunch.
Salad Pairings
- Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad adds crispness and balances the richness of the skillet.
- Mixed Green Salad – Lightly dressed mixed greens refresh the palate alongside this hearty meal.
How to Perfect Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet: A 30-Minute Wonder!
To elevate your garlic chicken gnocchi skillet, consider these helpful tips.
- Bold Flavor Boost – Use roasted garlic instead of raw for a sweeter, richer flavor.
- Creaminess Level – For an even creamier sauce, add a splash more heavy cream or use half-and-half.
- Gnocchi Cooking Tip – Ensure you don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if necessary for perfect gnocchi texture.
- Seasoning Adjustments – Always taste before serving and adjust salt and pepper to ensure balanced flavors.
- Vegetable Add-ins – Consider adding spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Leftover Storage – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat gently on the stove.
Best Side Dishes for Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet: A 30-Minute Wonder!
Pairing your garlic chicken gnocchi skillet with the right side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Bread – Crispy and buttery, perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers provide a healthy contrast.
- Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce with tangy dressing complements the richness of the dish.
- Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds a pop of color and crunch to your plate.
- Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing side that pairs well with Italian flavors.
- Antipasto Platter – An assortment of olives, marinated artichokes, and cheeses offers a delightful variety.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can help ensure your Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet: A 30-Minute Wonder! turns out perfect every time.
- Skipping the seasoning: Proper seasoning enhances flavor. Always remember to season each layer of your dish, including the chicken and sauce.
- Overcooking the garlic: Garlic burns quickly and can turn bitter. Sauté it just until fragrant—about 30 seconds is usually enough.
- Not scraping the skillet: The browned bits at the bottom of the pan add rich flavor. Don’t forget to scrape these up when adding broth for a deeper taste.
- Ignoring gnocchi cooking time: Gnocchi cooks fast and can become mushy if left too long. Keep an eye on them and stir occasionally for even cooking.
- Using low-quality cheese: The type of cheese you use affects creaminess and flavor. Opt for freshly grated Parmesan for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the dish to cool before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezing Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet: A 30-Minute Wonder!
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Consider portioning into single servings for easy reheating.
Reheating Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet: A 30-Minute Wonder!
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if it seems dry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making the Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet.
Can I use other types of meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with turkey, beef, or lamb depending on your preference.
How do I make this dish dairy-free?
You can replace heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative, and omit Parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese.
What can I serve with Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet: A 30-Minute Wonder!?
This dish pairs well with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for added nutrition.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Yes! Adding spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers can provide extra color and nutrition. Just sauté them after cooking the garlic.
Final Thoughts
The Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet: A 30-Minute Wonder! is not only quick but also rich in flavor and texture. It’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite proteins or vegetables. Give it a try tonight for an easy yet delightful meal!
Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet: A 30-Minute Wonder!
Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet: A 30-Minute Wonder! is the perfect solution for those busy weeknights when you crave a hearty meal without the fuss. This one-pan dish features tender chicken and fluffy gnocchi enveloped in a creamy garlic sauce that’s not only rich in flavor but also quick to prepare. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a deliciously comforting dinner that’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Customize it with your favorite herbs or add vegetables for extra nutrition, making this an adaptable recipe for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 lb potato gnocchi
- 6 cloves garlic
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces, seasoning with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Cook until golden brown (6-8 minutes), then set aside.
- Sauté minced garlic in the same skillet for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and scrape up browned bits from the skillet. Add gnocchi and simmer for 3-4 minutes until tender.
- Reduce heat to medium-low, stir in heavy cream, and let simmer for another 2-3 minutes until thickened.
- Return cooked chicken to the skillet along with Parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and heated through.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving with fresh basil on top.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 64g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
