Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe
If you’re craving a meal that feels like a warm hug on a busy weeknight, the Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet has got you covered. This dish brings together tender, garlicky chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and vibrant bursts of cherry tomato and spinach all cooked in one pan for flavors that blend beautifully. It’s simple, satisfying, and packed with texture and fresh herb goodness—everything you need for a comforting dinner that feels special without any fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but the magic lies in how they come together: each adds its own layer of taste, color, or texture that makes this skillet dish irresistible.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick, even cooking and tender bites throughout.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: The foundation that helps brown the chicken and brings out the garlic’s aroma.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced): Adds that essential fragrant punch that makes this dish so inviting.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved): These soften beautifully, releasing sweet, juicy bursts to balance savory notes.
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs: A blend like oregano and basil packs classic Mediterranean flavor without extra effort.
- 1 pound gnocchi: Soft, pillowy dumplings that soak up all those wonderful flavors.
- 1 cup spinach (roughly chopped): Adds fresh green color and a mild earthiness that brightens the skillet.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: A salty, nutty finish that melts into the dish and brings everything together.
- Salt (to taste): Balances and enhances all the flavors.
- Pepper (to taste): Adds a gentle kick for depth.
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish): A fresh, herbaceous note and pop of green when serving.
How to Make Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet
Step 1: Brown the Chicken
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add your seasoned chicken pieces. Let them cook undisturbed enough to develop a golden crust, then stir occasionally until they’re cooked through and juicy inside. This step builds the savory base for the dish and locks in flavor.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Next, toss the minced garlic into the hot skillet. Stir it around carefully for about a minute until it releases its incredible aroma. You want fragrant, not burnt, so keep an eye here—garlic cooks fast but is key to giving this dish its name and character.
Step 3: Cook the Tomatoes and Herbs
Add the halved cherry tomatoes and dried Italian herbs to the skillet. Let the tomatoes soften and gently burst, mingling with the herbs and garlic. This creates a light sauce that’s fresh but rich, perfect for coating everything that comes next.
Step 4: Prepare the Gnocchi
While your tomatoes cook, bring a separate pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions—usually just a couple of minutes until they float to the surface, signaling they’re perfectly tender. Drain and set them aside so you can add them to the skillet in the next step.
Step 5: Combine Gnocchi and Spinach
Once the tomatoes are soft and saucy, gently fold in the cooked gnocchi along with the rough-chopped spinach. The spinach wilts quickly, bringing a fresh green contrast and extra nutrients. Toss everything gently so the flavors meld but the gnocchi keep their shape.
Step 6: Finish with Parmesan
Turn off the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese for a luscious, creamy finish. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste, because every palate is a little different, and this step truly customizes your final flavor experience.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top just before serving. It adds a burst of color and a subtle herbaceous brightness that makes every bite pop.
How to Serve Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is classic, but feel free to experiment with some extra grated Parmesan or even red pepper flakes if you like a touch of heat. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil right before serving can also elevate the flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
This dish is substantial on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or crunchy garlic bread can add some refreshing texture contrasts that make the meal complete without overshadowing the main skillet.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, try serving the Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet family-style straight from the pan so guests can help themselves—it feels comforting and communal. Or portion it into individual shallow bowls with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and parsley on top for a charming presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers should go into an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. The chicken and gnocchi hold up well overnight, making this dish perfect for next-day lunches or easy reheated dinners.
Freezing
You can freeze the Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet, but since gnocchi can change texture, it’s best to slightly undercook the gnocchi before freezing. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to revive moisture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. To prevent drying out, add a tablespoon or two of water or broth. Microwaving works too, but the skillet method keeps the best texture for the gnocchi and chicken.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought gnocchi for this recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought gnocchi works wonderfully and makes this recipe quick and hassle-free—just cook according to package instructions before adding to the skillet.
What can I substitute for spinach?
Kale, Swiss chard, or arugula are great options that bring similar leafy greens to the dish. Just add them at the same stage and adjust cooking time based on their toughness.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
If you use gluten-free gnocchi, then yes! Just be sure to check the labels of your other ingredients to keep it fully gluten-free.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Sure thing! Swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables and you’ll still get that cozy, tasty skillet experience.
How spicy is this dish?
This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is mild by default, but if you love heat, adding crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce during cooking can easily give it a kick.
Final Thoughts
The Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is one of those dishes that feels like a little celebration every time you make it—effortless yet full of vibrant flavors and textures that delight the whole family. If you’re searching for a dependable, delicious skillet meal that feels homemade and heartwarming, give this recipe a try. I promise it’ll become a new favorite in your weeknight rotation.
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Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a quick and flavorful one-pan meal combining tender chicken bites, sautéed garlic, juicy cherry tomatoes, and delicate spinach tossed with pillowy gnocchi. Finished with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, it’s a comforting Italian-inspired dish perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Vegetables & Herbs
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, etc.)
- 1 cup spinach, roughly chopped
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Pasta & Dairy
- 1 pound gnocchi
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Oils
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Sauté the Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Cook Tomatoes and Herbs: Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and dried Italian herbs. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes soften and release their juices.
- Prepare the Gnocchi: Meanwhile, cook the gnocchi in boiling water according to package instructions, usually 2-3 minutes or until they float. Drain and set aside.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked gnocchi and chopped spinach to the skillet with the tomatoes and chicken. Toss gently to combine and cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat through.
- Add Parmesan and Season: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor, but garlic powder can be substituted if necessary.
- For extra creaminess, add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta before serving.
- If fresh spinach is not available, frozen spinach (thawed and drained) can be used.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stove or microwave.
- Gnocchi can be cooked directly in the skillet with the chicken, but boiling separately ensures a better texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing and Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1/4 of recipe)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
Keywords: garlic chicken gnocchi skillet, quick chicken dinner, Italian skillet recipe, one-pan chicken gnocchi, easy weeknight meal
