There's nothing quite like the combination of tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a rich, garlicky cream sauce coming together in one skillet. This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a comforting, restaurant-quality meal that’s surprisingly easy to make at home.

I first tried a dish like this at a small Italian bistro, and I was hooked from the first bite. Since then, I've worked on perfecting a homemade version that's just as indulgent but comes together in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy date night in, this dish will quickly become a household favorite.

Why You'll Love This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Get ready to fall in love with your new go-to one-pan meal. This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is packed with comforting flavors and comes together effortlessly.

First, it's incredibly fast and easy. With just a handful of simple ingredients and one pan, you can have dinner on the table in less than half an hour—ideal for those hectic evenings.

Second, it’s rich and creamy without being too heavy. The combination of butter, garlic, and cream creates a luxurious sauce that perfectly coats the gnocchi and chicken.

This dish is also budget-friendly. It uses pantry staples and affordable ingredients, making it a great choice for feeding a family without breaking the bank.

Lastly, it’s endlessly versatile. You can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes, or swap the protein for shrimp or sausage for a different twist.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this dish so delicious.

Gnocchi: Shelf-stable or refrigerated gnocchi work best for this recipe. They cook quickly in the sauce, absorbing all the flavors while maintaining their soft, pillowy texture.

Chicken Breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breast is ideal for a leaner option, but you can also use chicken thighs for extra juiciness. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.

Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must! It infuses the sauce with an aromatic depth that truly makes this dish shine. Mince it finely or use a garlic press for the best results.

Heavy Cream: This is what gives the sauce its creamy, indulgent texture. You can substitute half-and-half for a lighter version, but keep in mind the sauce won’t be as thick.

Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a nutty, salty kick that enhances the overall richness of the dish. Avoid pre-shredded Parmesan, as it doesn’t melt as smoothly.

How To Make This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Making this dish is a breeze, and since everything cooks in one skillet, cleanup is minimal. Here’s how to do it:

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a bit of olive oil and cook the chicken pieces until golden brown on all sides, about 4-5 minutes. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

In the same skillet, melt some butter and add the minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as it can turn bitter quickly.

Next, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then add the gnocchi. Let it cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gnocchi is tender and has absorbed some of the sauce.

Return the chicken to the skillet and sprinkle in the grated Parmesan. Stir everything together until the sauce is thick and creamy, coating every piece of gnocchi and chicken in garlicky goodness.

Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and an extra dusting of Parmesan before serving. Enjoy your restaurant-worthy meal straight from the pan!

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce will thicken as it sits, but you can loosen it up with a splash of cream or chicken broth when reheating.

To reheat, warm the dish over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. Avoid microwaving on high, as it can cause the sauce to separate.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is! Here are some variations to try:

Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms or zucchini for a hearty meat-free version.
Protein Swaps: Try replacing the chicken with shrimp, sausage, or even shredded rotisserie chicken for a different flavor profile.
Add Greens: Stir in fresh spinach or kale at the end for added color and nutrition.
Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce for some heat.
Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.

No matter how you customize it, this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is sure to be a new favorite in your recipe rotation!