Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe

Looking for a quick and satisfying dinner recipe? This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a perfect combination of creamy, garlicky goodness and tender, pan-seared chicken. The soft pillowy gnocchi soaks up all the flavors, making every bite incredibly delicious. Best of all? It’s a one-pan meal, meaning easy cleanup!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes.

One-Pan Wonder – Minimal cleanup.

Rich & Creamy – Loaded with garlic, Parmesan, and a luscious sauce.

Perfect Comfort Food – Warm, satisfying, and full of flavor.

Family-Friendly – Loved by both kids and adults.

Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Ingredients

the Chicken:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

the Gnocchi Skillet:

  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 lb potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 cup baby spinach
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
  • Fresh basil & Parmesan for garnish
Fresh Ingredients for the Perfect Gnocchi Skillet
A rustic wooden board with fresh gnocchi, garlic, cherry tomatoes, spinach, and Parmesan cheese.

Step by Step Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Instructions

1: Sear the Chicken

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Season the cubed chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
  3. Cook for 4-5 minutes, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
Searing Chicken to Perfection
Golden brown, seasoned chicken pieces cooking in a cast-iron skillet.

2: Make the Garlic Cream Sauce

  1. In the same pan, melt butter and sauté garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
  2. Add cherry tomatoes and cook until they soften, about 2 minutes.
  3. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
  4. Add Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

3: Cook the Gnocchi

  1. Stir in gnocchi and let it simmer for 4-5 minutes until soft.
  2. Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet.
  3. Toss in baby spinach, allowing it to wilt in the sauce.
  4. For a touch of heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes.

4: Serve & Garnish

  1. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan.
  2. Serve immediately and enjoy this creamy delight!
A chef’s hand garnishing a plated garlic chicken gnocchi dish with fresh basil.
The final touch—a sprinkle of fresh basil over a creamy, delicious garlic chicken gnocchi dish.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

  • Don’t Overcook Gnocchi – Simmer until just tender to prevent mushiness.
  • Use Fresh Garlic – For the most flavorful sauce, avoid garlic powder.
  • Add Protein Variety – Swap chicken with shrimp or sausage for a twist.
  • Want More Veggies? – Mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini make great additions.
  • Make it Lighter – Substitute half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
A steaming hot garlic chicken gnocchi skillet with creamy sauce and fresh basil.
Indulge in this rich, creamy, and flavorful garlic chicken gnocchi skillet, perfect for a cozy meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use frozen gnocchi?

Yes! No need to thaw—just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

2. How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream to restore the sauce’s consistency.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce and chicken in advance, but for the best texture, cook the gnocchi fresh.

4. Is this dish gluten-free?

Traditional gnocchi contains flour, but you can find gluten-free alternatives in most stores or make your own using almond flour or gluten-free flour blends.

5. What can I serve with this dish?

A side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad pairs perfectly with this creamy meal.


This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and absolutely irresistible! Give it a try and let us know how it turns out in the comments. Happy cooking! 🍽️

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