Here's a delicious and comforting Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet recipe that comes together in no time. The pillowy softness of gnocchi, paired with tender chicken and a rich, garlicky cream sauce, makes this dish an instant favorite for busy weeknights.

I discovered this recipe when I needed something quick but still indulgent after a long day. Now, it’s become a go-to for its creamy texture, bold flavors, and how effortlessly it all comes together in just one pan.

This dish is packed with hearty ingredients and flavors that will make everyone ask for seconds. Let’s dive into what makes it so special.

Why You'll Love This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Get ready to fall in love with a one-pan meal that delivers on flavor, convenience, and comfort.

First, it’s incredibly quick and easy to make. From start to finish, you can have this dish on the table in under 30 minutes—perfect for those nights when time is tight but you still want a homemade meal.

It’s also a one-pan wonder. No need to juggle multiple pots and pans; everything comes together in a single skillet, making cleanup a breeze.

Not only is this dish rich and creamy, but it also has a perfect balance of textures. The gnocchi is soft and pillowy, the chicken is juicy, and the creamy garlic sauce ties it all together beautifully.

Plus, it’s an incredibly versatile recipe. You can swap out the chicken for shrimp, add extra veggies like spinach or mushrooms, or even make it vegetarian with plant-based alternatives.

If you’re looking for a comforting meal that feels fancy but is secretly easy, this is the recipe for you.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients, each playing a key role in creating a rich, satisfying dish.

Gnocchi is the heart of this dish. I recommend using shelf-stable or refrigerated gnocchi, as they cook quickly and absorb all the delicious flavors from the sauce. If you have homemade gnocchi, even better!

For the protein, boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best. They cook quickly and remain juicy when cut into bite-sized pieces. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs are a great alternative for extra flavor.

Garlic is the star of the show. Using fresh minced garlic gives the sauce a bold and fragrant taste. If you love garlic, don’t be shy—adding an extra clove or two only makes it better.

The creamy sauce comes together with heavy cream and chicken broth. The heavy cream makes it rich and velvety, while the chicken broth adds depth without making it too heavy. If you’re looking for a lighter version, half-and-half can work as a substitute.

Finally, Parmesan cheese adds a perfect savory, umami-packed finish. Opt for freshly grated Parmesan rather than pre-shredded for the smoothest melt into the sauce.

No special equipment is required—just a large skillet or sauté pan that can hold all the ingredients comfortably.

How To Make This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Making this dish is easier than you’d think, and it all happens in one pan for maximum flavor and minimal cleanup.

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil, then toss in your bite-sized chicken pieces. Let them cook undisturbed for a few minutes until they develop a golden brown crust. Flip and cook until they’re no longer pink inside, then transfer to a plate.

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add butter and minced garlic. Stir constantly for about 30 seconds until the garlic is fragrant—be careful not to burn it.

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for a minute before adding the uncooked gnocchi. Stir well to coat everything in the creamy sauce.

Cover and let the gnocchi cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. As it cooks, it will absorb the flavors and soften beautifully.

Once the gnocchi is tender, return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and let everything simmer for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or extra Parmesan for a finishing touch. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers are just as delicious when reheated properly.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, store them properly to keep the flavors intact.

Let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, you can freeze it, but keep in mind that creamy sauces tend to change texture when thawed. If you do freeze it, use a freezer-safe container and consume within 1 month.

To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to bring back the creamy consistency. Microwave reheating also works, but stir halfway through to ensure even heating.

Variations and Substitutions

This dish is incredibly flexible, so feel free to make it your own with these easy variations.

For a lighter version, swap the heavy cream for half-and-half and use whole wheat gnocchi for extra fiber.

Want more veggies? Stir in baby spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes during the last few minutes of cooking for added flavor and texture.

Switch up the protein by using shrimp or Italian sausage instead of chicken. Both pair beautifully with the garlicky cream sauce.

If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, skip the chicken and add chickpeas or sautéed mushrooms as a hearty replacement. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it meat-free.

For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce while simmering.

This recipe is all about flexibility—experiment with what you have on hand and find your perfect combination.

Now that you know all the tips and tricks, it's time to whip up this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet and enjoy a comforting, flavor-packed meal in no time!