Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet: A Creamy, Comforting One-Pan Meal

A Quick and Flavorful Dinner for Any Night of the Week

This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. It features tender, bite-sized pieces of chicken and soft, pillowy potato gnocchi, all coated in a rich and creamy Parmesan sauce infused with garlic. The best part? It all comes together in one skillet, making it quick, easy, and with minimal cleanup. It’s a dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table, from picky eaters to discerning foodies.

A Recipe That’s Both Easy and Impressive

I first made this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet when I was looking for a quick and easy dinner that would use up some leftover chicken I had in the fridge. I’d recently discovered the joy of cooking with gnocchi, and I thought it would be a fun and delicious way to create a complete meal. The result was amazing! The gnocchi cooked perfectly in the creamy sauce, the chicken was tender and flavorful, and the garlic and Parmesan created a truly irresistible combination. This skillet has become one of my go-to recipes for busy weeknights. It’s so easy to make, and it’s always a hit with my family. I love that it’s a complete meal in one pan, and it’s so satisfying and comforting. I also like that it’s easy to customize.

Ingredient Insights: Choosing the Right Ingredients for Flavor and Texture

The success of this dish lies in the combination of simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (1 lb): The protein source for this dish.
  • Tip: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and easy eating. You can also use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
• Potato Gnocchi (1 lb): Soft, pillowy dumplings made from potatoes, flour, and sometimes eggs.
  • Tip: You can find pre-made gnocchi in the refrigerated or shelf-stable pasta section of most grocery stores.
• Garlic (6 cloves, minced): A key ingredient, providing a pungent, aromatic flavor that’s essential to the dish.
  • Tip: The recipe author emphasizes that there’s no such thing as too much garlic!
• Heavy Cream (1 cup): Creates a rich and creamy sauce.
• Chicken Broth (1 cup): Adds depth of flavor and helps cook the gnocchi.
  • Tip: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness of the dish.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese (½ cup): Adds a salty, nutty, and umami-rich flavor to the sauce.
  • Tip: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese from a wedge is always best for flavor.
• Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Used for cooking the chicken.
• Dried Italian Herbs (1 teaspoon): Adds an herbaceous and aromatic flavour.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the overall flavor.
• Fresh Basil (for garnish): Adds colour and freshness.

Essential Equipment: Tools for One-Pan Cooking

• Large Skillet: A large, deep skillet or a Dutch oven is ideal for this one-pan recipe.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Cutting Board: For cutting the chicken.
• Knife: For cutting the chicken and mincing the garlic.
• Wooden Spoon or Heat-Resistant Spatula: For stirring and mixing ingredients.

The Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide to Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Ingredients with Measurements

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 lb potato gnocchi
• 6 cloves garlic, minced (because there’s no such thing as too much garlic!)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Detailed Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Seasoning and Cooking

1. Cut Chicken: Cut the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, about 1 inch in size.
2. Season Chicken: Season the chicken pieces generously with salt, pepper, and dried Italian herbs.

2. Cook the Chicken: Searing for Flavor

1. Heat Oil: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the hot skillet.
3. Cook Until Golden Brown: Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s golden brown on all sides and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
4. Remove Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

3. Sauté Garlic: Infusing with Flavor

1. Add Garlic: In the same skillet (no need to clean it), add the minced garlic.
2. Sauté: Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

4. Create the Creamy Sauce: Building Richness and Depth

1. Add Broth: Pour the chicken broth into the skillet with the garlic. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits (fond) from the bottom of the pan. These bits add a lot of flavor to the sauce.
2. Simmer: Bring the broth to a gentle simmer.
3. Add Cream: Reduce heat to medium. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine.
4. Simmer: Let the mixture simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
5. Add Parmesan: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

5. Add the Gnocchi: Cooking to Pillowy Perfection

1. Add Gnocchi: Add the uncooked potato gnocchi to the skillet with the creamy sauce.
2. Stir to Coat: Stir gently to ensure the gnocchi are evenly coated with the sauce.
3. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer. Then, continue to cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
   • Check for Doneness: The gnocchi are done when they are tender and cooked through. They will typically float to the surface when they’re ready.

6. Combine Chicken and Gnocchi: Bringing it All Together

1. Return Chicken: Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet with the gnocchi and sauce.
2. Stir to Combine: Stir everything together gently until the chicken is heated through and evenly distributed.

7. Serve: Garnishing and Enjoying

1. Taste and Adjust: Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed.
2. Garnish: Garnish with freshly chopped basil leaves for a pop of color and freshness.
3. Serve Hot: Serve the Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet immediately while it’s hot and the sauce is creamy.

Troubleshooting Common Problems: Tips for Success

• Gnocchi Sticking:
  • Problem: The gnocchi are sticking to the bottom of the skillet.
  • Solutions: Make sure to stir the gnocchi occasionally while they’re cooking.
• Sauce Too Thick:
  • Problem: The sauce is too thick.
  • Solutions: Add a little more chicken broth or milk, a tablespoon at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
• Sauce Too Thin:
  • Problem: The sauce is too thin and watery.
  • Solutions: Let the sauce simmer for a bit longer.
• Chicken Dry:
  • Problem: Chicken is dry and overcooked.
  • Solutions: Cut chicken evenly, do not overcrowd the pan, and do not overcook.

Tips and Variations: Customize Your Gnocchi Skillet

• Add Vegetables: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or bell peppers into the sauce for added flavor and nutrients.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
• Different Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses, such as Asiago, Fontina, or a blend of Italian cheeses.
• Use Different Protein: Substitute the chicken with Italian sausage, shrimp, or even a plant-based protein for a different flavor profile.
• Add Lemon: Squeeze in some fresh lemon juice at the end for a bright, citrusy flavor.

Serving Suggestions: A Versatile Dish for Any Occasion

• Weeknight Dinner: A quick, easy, and satisfying meal for busy weeknights.
• Family Meal: A comforting and flavorful dish that the whole family will enjoy.
• Casual Get-Togethers: Serve with a side salad and garlic bread for a relaxed meal with friends.
• Date Night: This dish is easy to make but feels special enough for a date night.

Pairing Recommendations: Drinks and Sides

• Drinks:
  • White Wine: A crisp, dry white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, pairs well with the creamy sauce and chicken.
  • Iced Tea: Sweet or unsweetened iced tea is a refreshing choice.
  • Sparkling Water: A light and bubbly option.
• Sides:
  • Garlic Bread: A classic accompaniment to any Italian-inspired dish.
  • Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast.
  • Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts make a great side.

Nutritional Information: A Rich and Satisfying Meal

Per serving (approximate, will vary based on size and specific ingredients): Calories: 550-600, Fat: 30-35g, Carbohydrates: 40-45g, Protein: 30-35g. (Note: This is an approximation and may vary based on the specific ingredients used).

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Your Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Questions Answered

• Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
  • A: You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Cook the gnocchi and combine everything just before serving for the best texture.
• Q: How do I store leftovers?
  • A: Store leftover gnocchi and chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Q: Can I freeze this dish?
  • A: It’s not recommended to freeze this dish after it’s fully assembled, as the texture of the gnocchi and cream sauce may change upon thawing. However, you can freeze the cooked chicken separately for up to 3 months.
• Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
  • A: Yes, you can use any pasta, like penne.
• Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken, like rotisserie chicken?
  • A: Yes, you can use shredded rotisserie chicken to save time. Simply add it to the sauce along with the cooked gnocchi.
• Q: What if I don’t have heavy cream?
  • A: You can substitute half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less rich and creamy.
• Q: Can I make this without the chicken?
  • A: Yes, you can omit the chicken for a vegetarian version. You might want to add some sautéed mushrooms or other vegetables for extra flavor and substance.
• Q: Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
  • A: Yes, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, or roasted red peppers would all be delicious additions.
• Q: How can I make this dish spicier?
  • A: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce, or use a spicy Italian sausage.
• Q: Can I use fresh herbs?
• A: Yes, fresh herbs, like basil or oregano, would be delicious.
• Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
• A: Use gluten-free gnocchi or pasta and make sure all of your other ingredients are gluten free.
• Q: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
• A: You would need to use dairy-free alternatives for the butter, heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
• Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
• A: Leftovers can be reheated gently on the stovetop over low heat, or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
• Q: Can I bake this dish in the oven?
• A: Yes, you can.