There's something undeniably comforting about a creamy, garlicky skillet meal that comes together in just one pan. This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is packed with tender bites of chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a luscious garlic cream sauce that will have you coming back for seconds.

I first discovered this recipe on a chilly evening when I needed something quick, satisfying, and cozy. With just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal prep, it quickly became a weeknight staple in my kitchen.

Why You'll Love This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Get ready to fall in love with your next go-to comfort meal. This skillet recipe is everything you need on a busy night—quick, flavorful, and made in just one pan.

First off, this dish is incredibly easy to make. With no need for boiling the gnocchi separately, everything cooks together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.

The flavors are absolutely irresistible. The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and cream creates a rich, savory sauce that perfectly coats every bite of tender chicken and gnocchi.

It's a budget-friendly option that still feels indulgent. Using simple pantry staples, you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal without breaking the bank.

Plus, it's highly versatile! Whether you want to swap the chicken for shrimp, add extra veggies, or lighten up the sauce, there are endless ways to customize this dish.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this dish lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the perfect bite.

Chicken is the protein star of this recipe. I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces. Thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful, while breasts keep it leaner.

Gnocchi brings a delightful, pillowy texture that soaks up the sauce beautifully. You can use shelf-stable, frozen, or fresh gnocchi—just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly for fresh varieties.

Garlic is the heart of the sauce. Using fresh, minced garlic provides the best flavor, but garlic powder can work in a pinch if needed.

Heavy cream and Parmesan cheese create the rich, velvety sauce. If you're looking for a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or even a mix of milk and Greek yogurt, though the sauce won’t be quite as thick.

You'll also need a large skillet with a lid to ensure everything cooks evenly in one pan.

How To Make This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Making this dish is simpler than you might think. Here’s how to bring it together effortlessly.

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and let it warm up. Once hot, add your bite-sized chicken pieces, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-6 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and a bit more oil if needed. Sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant—be careful not to burn it! Then, pour in chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom.

Next, add in the gnocchi, stirring well to coat it in the garlic-infused broth. Let it simmer for about 3-4 minutes, allowing the gnocchi to absorb the flavors and soften slightly.

Reduce the heat to low and stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring everything together. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the sauce thickens and everything is well combined.

Give it a final taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan for the perfect finishing touch.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which isn’t likely!), this dish stores well for up to 3 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The gnocchi may absorb some of the sauce over time, so when reheating, add a splash of broth or cream to bring back the creamy consistency.

Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between to avoid hot spots.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are a few fun ways to change it up:

Swap the protein: Instead of chicken, try shrimp, Italian sausage, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Add vegetables: Spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers make great additions for extra flavor and texture.
Go dairy-free: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan for a dairy-free alternative.
Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a kick of heat.

No matter how you make it, this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is bound to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Give it a try and enjoy a creamy, comforting meal with minimal effort!