Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a quick and tasty meal that comes together in just 30 minutes. It’s full of tender chicken, soft pillowy gnocchi, and lots of garlic flavor that fills the kitchen with a mouth-watering smell. Everything cooks right in one pan, making it both an easy and satisfying dinner option.
I love making this dish on busy weeknights when I want something comforting but don’t have a lot of time. The gnocchi gets crispy edges in the skillet, which adds a nice texture alongside the juicy chicken and creamy sauce. I find that a little fresh parsley on top brightens it up and makes it feel extra special.
This skillet meal is also great because you can throw in whatever veggies you have on hand—spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes all work well. I like to serve it with a simple green salad on the side to keep things light. It’s become one of my go-to recipes when I want a fuss-free dinner that still feels like a treat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I prefer boneless, skinless thighs for juicy, tender meat, but breasts work well too if you want leaner protein. Just watch cooking time to avoid drying out.
Gnocchi: Potato gnocchi gives a soft, pillowy texture here. Store-bought is fine and convenient, but fresh homemade gnocchi add a lovely chew if you have time.
Mushrooms: Button or cremini mushrooms are great for their earthy flavor. If you want, try baby bella or shiitake for a different twist.
Heavy Cream & Parmesan: These create the creamy sauce. To lighten it, you can substitute half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream cheese, but the sauce won’t be as rich.
Fresh Spinach: Adds color and freshness but is optional. You could swap it with kale or arugula for a peppery bite.
How Do I Get Crispy, Golden Gnocchi in the Skillet?
Getting that beautiful golden crust on your gnocchi boosts texture and flavor. Here’s how I do it:
- Use a non-stick or well-seasoned skillet for even heat distribution.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—give each gnocchi a little room to brown.
- Cook over medium-high heat in olive oil or butter, without stirring too often. Let them sit for a minute or two until golden, then turn them gently.
- Once browned, add liquids or other ingredients quickly to keep the crispy edges intact.
This way, you get soft gnocchi with just enough crispiness, making the dish extra delicious.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet or frying pan – I recommend a big one to fit everything comfortably and get nice browning.
- Tongs or a spatula – helps turn and remove the chicken and gnocchi without breaking them.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for precise broth, cream, and seasoning amounts.
- Knife and cutting board – for chopping garlic, mushrooms, and parsley easily.
- Wooden spoon – good for stirring sauce and scraping up browned bits from the pan.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for cooked shrimp or sausage for different protein options that cook quickly and add flavor.
- Use different cheeses like mozzarella or fontina for a milder melt-in-your-mouth taste.
- Mix in roasted cherry tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy punch.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika to spice things up and give a smoky flavor.
Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet: 30-Minute Wonder!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken & Veggies:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into pieces
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz (225g) mushrooms, sliced
For The Gnocchi & Sauce:
- 1 package (16 oz/450g) potato gnocchi, store-bought or homemade
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
- 2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping ingredients and about 20 minutes cooking everything in one skillet. It’s a quick and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Cook the Chicken:
Season your chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the pan is hot, add the chicken in a single layer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Sauté Mushrooms and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add sliced mushrooms. Cook them for 4-5 minutes until browned and tender, stirring occasionally. Next, add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
3. Cook the Gnocchi and Make the Sauce:
Add the gnocchi to the skillet with the mushrooms and garlic. Let them cook for 2-3 minutes so they develop a little golden crust. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, letting the sauce thicken slightly.
4. Finish with Chicken and Spinach:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. If you like, toss in the fresh spinach now and cook for 1-2 minutes until just wilted. Taste the sauce and adjust salt and pepper if needed.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Garnish your garlic chicken gnocchi skillet with freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm and enjoy a creamy, comforting meal that’s ready in just half an hour!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to fully thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This helps the chicken cook evenly and prevents excess moisture in the skillet.
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream with Something Lighter?
Absolutely! You can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream cheese for a lighter sauce, but note it will be less rich and creamy. Adding a bit of flour can help thicken the sauce if needed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to keep the sauce smooth.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Dish?
Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, kale, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers. Just add them toward the end of cooking so they stay fresh and vibrant.