Description
This garlic chicken gnocchi skillet is the ultimate solution for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s easy to make and can even be adapted to be gluten-free! Tender chicken thighs and soft, pillowy gnocchi are simmered in a rich, creamy sauce, perfectly complemented by a medley of vegetables like spinach, onions, and mushrooms. It’s a true one-pan meal that’s perfect for the whole family or ideal for meal prep.
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Gnocchi
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 (16-ounce) packages of store-bought gnocchi
For the Garlicky Sauce
- 8 cloves garlic, minced (about 1/2 cup)
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for spice preference)
- 1 cup chicken broth (preferably low-sodium)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
For the Veggies and Garnish
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus additional for serving)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional Variations
Feel free to customize your Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet with these suggested variations:
- Protein Alternatives: You can substitute chicken with shrimp, turkey, or even plant-based chicken alternatives for a lighter option.
- Vegetable Additions: Consider adding bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli for extra color and nutrition.
- Herb Infusions: Fresh basil or thyme can be added in place of dried Italian seasoning to impart a wonderful fresh flavor.
- Flavor Boost: A splash of balsamic vinegar added just before serving can elevate the dish’s taste profile.
Instructions
Gather Your Ingredients
Start by assembling all the ingredients required for the dish. You will need:
- 1 pound of chicken breast, diced
- 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups spinach, fresh
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ cup parmesan cheese, grated
Cook the Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced chicken breast.
Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Cook for about 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
Add Garlic and Gnocchi
Once the chicken is done, add 4 minced garlic cloves to the skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant.
Next, add the gnocchi directly into the skillet. Sauté the gnocchi with the chicken and garlic for about 2 minutes, allowing them to slightly brown.
Mix in the Spinach and Broth
Add 2 cups of fresh spinach to the skillet. Stir well until the spinach wilts, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
Pour in ½ cup of chicken broth, stirring to combine all ingredients. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Incorporate Cream and Cheese
Once simmering, add ½ cup of heavy cream to the skillet. Stir in the mixture gently, ensuring even distribution.
Sprinkle ¼ cup of grated parmesan cheese over the top and mix well until the cheese has melted into the sauce.
Final Seasoning and Serve
Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary. Remove from heat and let it sit for a minute before serving.
Your Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is now ready to enjoy! Serve warm, garnished with additional parmesan if desired.
Notes
Enhancing Flavor with Variations: There are countless ways to customize your Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet. Adding vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers increases the dish’s nutritional value and adds flavor. If you prefer a spicy kick, include crushed red pepper flakes or even diced jalapeños for heat. Experimenting with different herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, can provide unique twists to this classic recipe.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Chicken
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 613kcal
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 13g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 37g
- Cholesterol: 204mg