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Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

The Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a cozy and quick meal combining tender chicken breasts, pillowy gnocchi, and a creamy garlic-infused sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, this flavorful dish offers the perfect combination of comforting textures and rich, garlicky taste, perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein & Vegetables

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 cups fresh spinach

Starches

  • 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)

Dairy & Sauces

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Flavorings & Seasonings

  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside. Slice chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces.
  2. Sauté Garlic and Gnocchi: In the same skillet, add additional olive oil if necessary. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Add the gnocchi and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they puff up and develop a slight golden crust.
  3. Create the Creamy Sauce: Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously. Let the sauce simmer gently for a few minutes until it thickens slightly. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts fully and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
  4. Add Spinach and Chicken: Fold the fresh spinach into the creamy sauce, allowing it to wilt gently. Return the sliced chicken to the skillet and combine everything evenly so the flavors meld and the chicken is reheated.
  5. Final Seasoning and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if you desire more heat. Serve hot, optionally garnished with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs like parsley or basil.

Notes

  • Use fresh garlic for the best flavor and aroma.
  • Cook chicken in batches if your skillet is small to avoid overcrowding and ensure proper browning.
  • Toast the gnocchi until golden to add extra texture.
  • Freshly grate Parmesan cheese to enhance sauce creaminess.
  • Simmer the cream gently to prevent curdling and achieve a smooth sauce.

Nutrition

Keywords: Garlic chicken gnocchi, creamy skillet dinner, quick weeknight meal, one-pan chicken recipe, creamy garlic sauce