This Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a warm, comforting one-pan meal that combines tender pieces of chicken with soft, pillowy gnocchi in a rich, creamy sauce.
Infused with garlic, herbs, and a touch of Parmesan, it delivers a perfect balance of savory and hearty flavors. The gnocchi cooks right in the skillet, soaking up the delicious sauce while staying perfectly soft. Fresh spinach or vegetables can be added for extra color and nutrition.
Ready in about 30 minutes, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights yet special enough for entertaining, offering a satisfying blend of flavors and textures in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is the epitome of comfort food. With juicy chicken, soft gnocchi, and a creamy sauce infused with garlic and Parmesan, it’s a hearty meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you crave something warm and indulgent.
Chicken Gnocchi Skillet
Description
In this dish, boneless chicken thighs are seasoned and seared to perfection, then combined with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and gnocchi. Everything is enveloped in a luscious garlic-Parmesan cream sauce, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. All cooked in a single skillet, this recipe minimizes cleanup without compromising on taste.
Ingredients
1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Instructions
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Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
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In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil and sear chicken until golden and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
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In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium, add butter and minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
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Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer.
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Add gnocchi to the skillet, cover, and cook until tender (about 3-5 minutes).
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Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy.
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Return chicken to the skillet, add optional vegetables if using, and cook until heated through.
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Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve warm.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 450kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 18g28%
- Sodium 600mg25%
- Total Carbohydrate 50g17%
- Dietary Fiber 5g20%
- Protein 35g70%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Variations
- Creamy Garlic Parmesan Gnocchi – Add extra minced garlic and ½ cup more Parmesan for a richer, cheesier sauce.
- Spinach & Sun-Dried Tomato Gnocchi – Stir in fresh spinach and chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a colorful, Mediterranean-inspired twist.
- Pesto Chicken Gnocchi – Replace part of the cream sauce with basil pesto for a fresh, herby flavor.
- Mushroom & Herb Gnocchi – Sauté sliced mushrooms with thyme or rosemary before adding the gnocchi and chicken for an earthy profile.
- Spicy Cajun Gnocchi – Season the chicken and sauce with Cajun seasoning for a bold, smoky kick.
- Lemon Herb Gnocchi – Add lemon zest and fresh parsley to brighten the dish and balance the richness.
Storage & Reheating
Refrigeration:
- Let the chicken gnocchi skillet cool completely before storing.
- Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- If possible, store extra sauce separately to keep gnocchi from absorbing too much liquid.
Freezing:
- Gnocchi dishes generally freeze well if sauce is cream-based but should be reheated gently to avoid separation.
- Portion into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion.
- Freeze for up to 2 months.
- For best results, undercook the gnocchi slightly before freezing so they don’t get mushy after thawing.
Reheating:
- Stovetop Method (best): Place leftovers in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk, cream, or chicken broth to loosen the sauce. Stir gently until heated through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 45-second intervals, stirring between each.
- Oven Method: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake for 15–20 minutes until warmed through.
Pro Tips for Best Results
- If reheating, always add a bit of extra liquid to refresh the sauce’s creamy texture.
- Avoid reheating at high temperatures, as cream sauces can separate.
- If freezing, label containers with the date and variation type (e.g., “Spinach & Tomato Gnocchi – Feb 2025”).
- Keep fresh garnishes like herbs or lemon zest separate and add after reheating for the best flavor.
Tips & Serving Tricks:
- Vegetable Add-ins: Incorporate vegetables like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.
- Cheese Variations: Try different cheeses such as mozzarella or fontina for a unique twist.
- Herb Enhancements: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can brighten the dish.
- Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Conclution :
In conclusion, Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a comforting, one-pan wonder that combines tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a rich, creamy sauce for a meal that’s both indulgent and satisfying.
The gnocchi, sautéed to perfection, soaks up the savory flavors of the sauce, creating a harmonious blend of textures in every bite.
Paired with sautéed chicken and seasoned to perfection with garlic, herbs, and a touch of Parmesan, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser that comes together quickly for busy weeknights or cozy weekend meals.
What sets this skillet apart is its versatility. The creamy base, made with a mix of chicken broth, cream, and a little bit of flour to thicken, provides a velvety backdrop that complements the soft gnocchi and succulent chicken.
Whether you prefer spinach for added color and nutrients or sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist, this recipe can easily be adjusted to suit your preferences.
The balance of richness and freshness in each bite makes this dish incredibly satisfying without being overly heavy.
The beauty of the Chicken Gnocchi Skillet lies in its simplicity. With minimal ingredients and just one pan to clean, it’s an ideal option for anyone looking for a quick yet impressive meal.
Plus, it’s a perfect make-ahead dish, with leftovers that taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Whether you're serving a family dinner, preparing a date night meal, or enjoying a cozy evening by yourself, this skillet dish offers warmth, flavor, and ease—all in one.
Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is the kind of recipe that makes you look forward to dinner every time, combining comfort, convenience, and a burst of deliciousness in every bite.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use store-bought gnocchi?
Yes, shelf-stable or refrigerated gnocchi work well in this recipe.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free gnocchi and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
It's best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated gently.
