Savory Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Skillet

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Comfort food gets a serious upgrade with this Savory Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Skillet. It’s rich, creamy, and loaded with flavor in every bite. Think golden, seared chicken, pillowy soft gnocchi, tender spinach, and a garlic parmesan cream sauce that ties everything together perfectly.

This one-skillet meal is as comforting as it is convenient. It’s ideal for busy weeknights when you want something hearty without a pile of dishes. The balance of textures and bold, garlicky goodness will have everyone asking for seconds.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into this delicious skillet dinner, let’s talk prep and tools. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Large Nonstick or Cast Iron Skillet: This is key for evenly browning your chicken and later simmering everything together. A deep skillet helps contain all the saucy goodness.

2. Tongs or Silicone Spatula: For flipping chicken without tearing it, and gently stirring in the gnocchi and spinach.

3. Cutting Board + Sharp Knife: Prep your chicken and chop any fresh herbs or garlic with ease.

4. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Getting the ratios right ensures your creamy garlic sauce turns out balanced and delicious.

5. Small Whisk: For blending cream, broth, and seasonings smoothly into the skillet sauce.

With these essentials on hand, you’re ready to build layers of flavor in one pan. Let’s move on to the ingredients that make this dish unforgettable.

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Ingredients for the Savory Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Skillet

Every ingredient in this dish plays a flavorful role. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and why it matters:

Chicken Breasts or Thighs: The protein hero of this dish. Choose skinless, boneless cuts for quicker cooking and tender texture.

Gnocchi: These soft potato dumplings soak up the creamy sauce beautifully, giving you a pillowy bite in every forkful.

Fresh Garlic: The base of the flavor. Minced garlic infuses the whole skillet with rich, savory aroma.

Heavy Cream: For that luscious, velvety sauce that clings to every gnocchi and piece of chicken.

Chicken Broth: Adds depth and balances the richness of the cream while keeping the sauce from being too heavy.

Parmesan Cheese: Brings saltiness and sharp umami to the sauce. Use freshly grated if possible.

Spinach: Adds color and a nutritional boost, wilting into the sauce for a perfect earthy contrast.

Sun-Dried Tomatoes (optional): For a tangy, slightly sweet pop that complements the cream and garlic.

Olive Oil + Butter: The combo helps get a golden sear on the chicken and builds a flavorful base for the sauce.

Salt, Pepper, Italian Seasoning: Essential for seasoning your chicken and rounding out the sauce flavors.

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How To Make the Savory Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Skillet

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Season your chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken on both sides until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Add Broth

In the same skillet, reduce the heat slightly. Add more butter if needed and stir in the minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute). Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up the browned bits.

Step 3: Simmer Gnocchi

Add the uncooked gnocchi directly into the broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Stir in Cream and Parmesan

Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and sun-dried tomatoes (if using). Let it all thicken slightly into a luscious sauce.

Step 5: Add Spinach and Return Chicken

Toss in fresh spinach and stir until wilted. Return the seared chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Let everything warm together for a few minutes.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Finish with freshly cracked pepper and a sprinkle of parsley or extra cheese if desired. Serve hot right from the skillet.

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Best Way to Serve and Store Savory Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Skillet

This skillet is best served hot and straight from the pan. The creamy sauce, tender gnocchi, and juicy chicken come together beautifully when freshly made. It pairs well with a crisp side salad or garlic bread if you’re aiming to round out the meal.

For storing leftovers, let the skillet cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, use the stovetop on low heat and add a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Microwave reheating is also fine but stir halfway through to prevent hot spots.

Avoid freezing, as the cream sauce can separate and become grainy after thawing.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What type of gnocchi works best?

Shelf-stable potato gnocchi found in the pasta aisle is perfect for this skillet. You can also use refrigerated or homemade, but adjust the cooking time slightly.

Can I substitute the heavy cream?

Yes! Half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk can work in a pinch, though the sauce will be less rich. Avoid milk—it may curdle when simmered.

Is it okay to use pre-cooked chicken?

You can! Just skip the searing step and add the chicken at the end to warm through. Rotisserie chicken makes this recipe even faster.

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

Swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms or white beans and use veggie broth. You’ll still get a creamy, hearty skillet without meat.

Can I add extra veggies?

Absolutely! Mushrooms, peas, or cherry tomatoes work well. Just be sure they’re cooked before adding to avoid extra moisture thinning the sauce.

What’s the best way to reheat without drying it out?

Low heat on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth is the gentlest way. Stir occasionally and cover if needed to retain moisture.

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Want More Skillet Dinner Ideas?

If you enjoyed this creamy and satisfying skillet, here are more one-pan wonders you’ll love from Life With Olivia:

• Longhorn Parmesan Chicken for a cheesy twist on a steakhouse favorite.
• Chicken and Stuffing Casserole when you’re craving cozy and classic.
• Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole if you want pasta baked in layers of richness.
• Creamy Garlic Butter Lobster Tails for a special dinner with luxurious flavor.
• Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini if you want more creamy garlic pasta magic.

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Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can revisit it anytime:

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use sun-dried tomatoes? Swap in mushrooms? Or add a spicy kick?

I love seeing how you make these skillet recipes your own. Ask away if you have any questions—let’s make cooking easier together.

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