Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe

Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe | Creamy & Flavorful

I love quick, hearty dinners that feel fancy but don’t take all night to make, and this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe is exactly that. The first time I made it, the creamy sauce and tender chicken completely won me over. It’s all cooked in one pan, which means fewer dishes and more time to enjoy the meal.

The combination of gnocchi, garlic, and fresh vegetables creates a comforting yet satisfying dish. I can honestly say this recipe has become a staple for my weeknight dinners. You can also enjoy similar comfort in a creamy broccoli cheese soup recipe for a lighter starter.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to make this delicious skillet:

• 1 ½ pounds potato gnocchi – fresh works best for a pillowy texture.
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs – juicy and flavorful; bone-in can be used, but cook longer.
• 3 tablespoons butter – adds richness; ghee is a good alternative for a slightly nutty flavor.
• 1 cup chicken broth – helps make the sauce flavorful; low-sodium preferred.
• ½ cup half and half – gives a creamy consistency; full-fat works best.
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella – fresh mozzarella melts better and adds gooey texture.
• 1 small yellow onion, diced – adds sweetness and depth.
• 1 cup white mushrooms, diced – earthy flavor; fresh mushrooms are ideal.
• 2 cups fresh spinach – stir in at the end; don’t use frozen, it releases too much water.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – garlic flavor is key; adjust based on preference.
• 1 teaspoon paprika – enhances the chicken flavor.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – adds herbaceous notes.
• Salt and pepper to taste – essential for seasoning.

Note: several serving

Variations

• Dairy-free: Use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of half and half, and dairy-free cheese.
• Gluten-free: Simply use gluten-free gnocchi, widely available in stores or online.
• Flavor-enhancing: Add sun-dried tomatoes or a splash of white wine to the sauce.
• Veggie-packed: Include zucchini, bell peppers, or kale for more color and nutrition. You can also enjoy a vegetarian stuffed pasta shells recipe if you want a meat-free alternative for dinner.

Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Equipment You Need

• Large skillet – for cooking the chicken and sauce.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – to stir vegetables and sauce without scratching the pan.
• Whisk – to combine the sauce ingredients smoothly.
• Knife and cutting board – for chopping vegetables and chicken.
• Pot – to boil gnocchi before adding to the skillet.

How to Make Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe?

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by chopping your onions, mushrooms, and spinach, and mincing the garlic. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and paprika. Boil the gnocchi according to package instructions, then set aside.

Cook the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken thighs for 5–10 minutes on each side until golden brown. Transfer to a plate and keep warm while preparing the sauce.

Sauté Vegetables

Add the remaining butter to the skillet, then toss in garlic, onions, mushrooms, and Italian seasoning. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until the onions are translucent and mushrooms tender.

Make the Cream Sauce

Whisk in chicken broth for one minute until combined, then add half and half. Gradually mix in mozzarella until melted and the sauce thickens slightly.

Combine Gnocchi and Chicken

Stir in the drained gnocchi and spinach, adjusting seasoning with salt and pepper. Nestle the chicken back into the skillet, allowing it to simmer for a few minutes until heated through.

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

• I always use fresh gnocchi; it gives a lighter texture.
• Melting cheese gradually prevents clumping and creates a smooth sauce.
• Searing chicken properly ensures a crispy, golden crust that adds flavor.
• I like to leave the spinach slightly crisp to retain its vibrant color.

How to Serve Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe?

Serve directly from the skillet for a cozy, rustic feel. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, extra parmesan, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for color and heat. A side of garlic bread pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview per serving:

• Calories: ~450 kcal – a satisfying portion without overdoing it.
• Protein: 28 g – thanks to the chicken and cheese.
• Carbohydrates: 35 g – from gnocchi and vegetables.
• Fat: 20 g – from butter, cheese, and half and half.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing

Cool the skillet completely, then transfer to airtight containers. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing

You can freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

Reheating

Add a tablespoon of water or broth when reheating to maintain the creamy sauce consistency.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

This recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor. Here’s why I adore it:

• One-pan meal – less cleanup, more time to enjoy.
• Quick weeknight dinner – ready in just 30 minutes.
• Family-friendly – both kids and adults love it.
• Customizable – swap vegetables or cheese to your taste.
• Comfort food classic – creamy, garlicky, and utterly satisfying.

Ben Carraoli

Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe

I love quick, hearty dinners that feel fancy but don’t take all night to make, and this garlic chicken gnocchi skillet is exactly that. The first time I made it, the creamy sauce and tender chicken completely won me over.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 ½ pounds potato gnocchi – fresh works best for a pillowy texture.
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs – juicy and flavorful; bone-in can be used, but cook longer.
• 3 tablespoons butter – adds richness; ghee is a good alternative for a slightly nutty flavor.
• 1 cup chicken broth – helps make the sauce flavorful; low-sodium preferred.
• ½ cup half and half – gives a creamy consistency; full-fat works best.
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella – fresh mozzarella melts better and adds gooey texture.
• 1 small yellow onion diced – adds sweetness and depth.
• 1 cup white mushrooms diced – earthy flavor; fresh mushrooms are ideal.
• 2 cups fresh spinach – stir in at the end; don’t use frozen it releases too much water.
• 2 cloves garlic minced – garlic flavor is key; adjust based on preference.
• 1 teaspoon paprika – enhances the chicken flavor.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – adds herbaceous notes.
• Salt and pepper to taste – essential for seasoning.

Method

 

1. Start by chopping your onions, mushrooms, and spinach, and mincing the garlic. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and paprika. Boil the gnocchi according to package instructions, then set aside.
2. Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken thighs for 5–10 minutes on each side until golden brown. Transfer to a plate and keep warm while preparing the sauce.
3. Add the remaining butter to the skillet, then toss in garlic, onions, mushrooms, and Italian seasoning. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until the onions are translucent and mushrooms tender.
4. Whisk in chicken broth for one minute until combined, then add half and half. Gradually mix in mozzarella until melted and the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Stir in the drained gnocchi and spinach, adjusting seasoning with salt and pepper. Nestle the chicken back into the skillet, allowing it to simmer for a few minutes until heated through.

Notes

• I always use fresh gnocchi; it gives a lighter texture.
• Melting cheese gradually prevents clumping and creates a smooth sauce.
• Searing chicken properly ensures a crispy, golden crust that adds flavor.
• I like to leave the spinach slightly crisp to retain its vibrant color.