Name: Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-483800H48M50S
Total time: PT-483800H48M50S
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi; 1 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 2 cups fresh spinach; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp Italian seasoning

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Short Description

Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a rich, comforting, and easy-to-make dish that combines tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a creamy garlic sauce. This one-pan meal is packed with flavor, making it perfect for a cozy dinner or an impressive meal for guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-Pan Convenience: Everything is cooked in a single skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
Rich and Creamy Flavor: A luscious garlic-infused sauce coats the gnocchi and chicken beautifully.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Customizable: You can easily swap ingredients to suit different dietary preferences.
Restaurant-Quality Meal: This dish is fancy enough for entertaining but simple enough for a regular meal.

Ingredients

Chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
Gnocchi
Olive oil
Butter
Garlic, minced
Chicken broth
Heavy cream
Parmesan cheese, grated
Spinach
Red pepper flakes
Salt
Black pepper
Italian seasoning

Directions

Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Prepare the Garlic Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant.
Cook the Gnocchi: Add the uncooked gnocchi to the skillet, stirring to coat with the garlic butter. Pour in the chicken broth, allowing the gnocchi to cook until tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Make It Creamy: Reduce the heat to low and add the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir well until a creamy sauce forms.
Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir in fresh spinach. Let it cook for a couple of minutes until the spinach wilts.
Finish and Serve: Sprinkle red pepper flakes for a hint of spice, adjust seasonings if needed, and serve warm.

Variations

Protein Swap: Use shrimp, sausage, or tofu instead of chicken.
Vegetable Additions: Mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted red peppers can add extra depth.
Dairy-Free Option: Substitute coconut cream for heavy cream and nutritional yeast for Parmesan.
Low-Carb Version: Swap gnocchi for cauliflower gnocchi or zucchini noodles.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Total Time: 25-30 minutes
Servings: 4

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore the sauce’s consistency.
Freezing: Not recommended due to the creamy sauce and gnocchi texture.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

Yes, store-bought gnocchi works perfectly and makes the recipe even quicker.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free gnocchi and ensure your broth and seasonings are gluten-free.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

Half-and-half, whole milk, or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream can be used.

Can I make this ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can cook the chicken in advance to save time.

How do I keep the gnocchi from getting mushy?

Avoid overcooking—once the gnocchi is tender, remove from heat promptly.

What side dishes pair well with this recipe?

A crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread make great accompaniments.

Can I add cheese other than Parmesan?

Yes, mozzarella or Asiago cheese would also work well.

Will this work with frozen gnocchi?

Yes, just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure even cooking.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, use a larger skillet and increase ingredient quantities proportionally.

Conclusion

Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a satisfying, creamy, and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or a dish to impress, this recipe delivers both taste and convenience. Try it out and enjoy a comforting, homemade meal with minimal effort!

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