If you’ve ever dreamed of a dish that’s both incredibly satisfying and outrageously simple, then this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet A Minute Wonder Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine tender, golden chicken pieces nestled among pillowy gnocchi, all enveloped in a creamy, garlicky sauce that bursts with Italian herbs and Parmesan cheese. It’s comfort food elevated, delivering big flavors in a one-skillet meal that comes together faster than you’d expect. Perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you want a delicious, fuss-free dinner that feels like a special treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but each one plays a crucial role, creating a beautiful balance of flavors and textures. From the juicy chicken that adds protein and heartiness, to the gnocchi that brings softness and substance, every element is essential in building this delightful skillet meal.
- 1lb boneless skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces to ensure quick, even cooking and perfect browning.
- 1lb potato gnocchi: Soft and pillowy, these little dumplings soak up the sauce beautifully for that melt-in-your-mouth experience.
- 6 cloves garlic, minced: The star flavor of the dish, providing a fragrant, savory punch.
- 1 cup heavy cream: This creates the luscious, velvety sauce that binds everything together.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Adds depth and a subtle savory base for the sauce.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: For an irresistible savory richness and slight nuttiness.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Essential for searing the chicken and bringing out the garlic’s flavor without burning.
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs: A blend that infuses the dish with classic Mediterranean warmth.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To perfectly season and balance all components.
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish: Adds a bright, fresh note and an eye-catching finish.
How to Make Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet A Minute Wonder Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Chicken and Garlic
Start by patting the chicken dry and cutting it into bite-sized pieces. Season these generously with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavor. Mince the garlic cloves finely—this ensures every bite gets that vibrant garlicky essence. Also, grate the Parmesan cheese now so it’s ready to mix in later.
Step 2: Sear Chicken
Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Adding the chicken in a single layer allows each piece to develop that gorgeous golden crust. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side until the chicken is cooked through and beautifully browned. Don’t overcrowd the pan; sear in batches if needed. Once done, set the chicken aside to keep warm while you build the sauce.
Step 3: Build Flavor Base
Lower the heat to medium, add the remaining olive oil, and toss in the minced garlic. Sauté for about one minute while stirring constantly—this step releases the garlic’s alluring aroma without letting it burn. Immediately add the dried Italian herbs and stir for another 30 seconds to toast the spices and deepen their flavors.
Step 4: Deglaze with Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and increase the heat back to medium-high. As the mixture begins to simmer, use a wooden spoon to scrape up all those flavorful browned bits stuck to the skillet bottom. This simple step lifts a ton of deliciousness into your sauce. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes to reduce slightly and concentrate its richness.
Step 5: Cook Gnocchi & Cream
Add the potato gnocchi directly into the simmering broth and then pour in the heavy cream. Give everything a gentle stir to combine and bring the skillet back to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook uncovered for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the gnocchi to cook through and the sauce to thicken into a silky dream.
Step 6: Combine & Finish
Return the golden seared chicken to the skillet, gently folding it into the creamy sauce and tender gnocchi to warm through. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in that sumptuous Parmesan cheese until fully melted. Now is the moment to taste your creation and adjust salt and pepper as needed, ensuring every bite is perfectly seasoned.
Step 7: Serve & Garnish
Let the skillet rest off the heat for a few minutes to allow the sauce to settle. Then, scoop the hot Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet A Minute Wonder Recipe into plates or bowls. Scatter fresh basil leaves on top for a pop of color and freshness. If you love Parmesan as much as I do, have some extra grated cheese on the side—it’s just that good.
How to Serve Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet A Minute Wonder Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves are the perfect garnishing touch, lending a bright, herbal note that cuts through the creaminess. You can also sprinkle a pinch of extra Parmesan or a crack of black pepper to add a bit of texture and visual appeal. For a little heat, a dash of red pepper flakes works beautifully.
Side Dishes
Because this skillet is rich and hearty, pairing it with crisp green salads or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans provides a refreshing contrast. A simple arugula salad dressed with lemon and olive oil brightens the meal without overshadowing the main star.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet A Minute Wonder Recipe straight from the skillet for a cozy, rustic vibe that’s perfect for family dinners. For a dinner party, consider plating it in shallow bowls with microgreens and edible flowers on top for a restaurant-worthy presentation that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet A Minute Wonder Recipe keeps wonderfully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day.
Freezing
Freezing this dish is possible but not ideal due to the cream sauce and gnocchi texture. If you must freeze it, do so immediately after cooking and cool it completely. Store in a freezer-friendly container for up to 1 month.
Reheating
To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce seems too thick. This helps restore the sauce’s silky consistency without drying out the gnocchi or chicken.
FAQs
Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen gnocchi works just fine. Just be sure to add a minute or two extra to cooking time and watch closely until they’re tender and floating in the sauce.
What if I’m allergic to dairy? Can I make substitutions?
Yes, you can try replacing heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy cream alternative. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How spicy is the dish? Can I add heat?
The recipe is mild by default but you can easily add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper while cooking the garlic to give it a spicy kick.
Can I use other meats instead of chicken?
Definitely! Shrimp or even Italian sausage can be delicious substitutes in this skillet. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure proper cooking.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep! Make it ahead and portion it out for quick, satisfying lunches or dinners throughout the week. Just remember to reheat gently to keep the texture perfect.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet A Minute Wonder Recipe is truly a game-changer for anyone craving deliciousness without hours in the kitchen. Its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and soft gnocchi all come together in a way that feels both indulgent and homemade. I can’t wait for you to try it and see just how effortlessly wonderful weeknight dinners can be with this recipe in your rotation.
Print
Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet A Minute Wonder Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a quick and flavorful one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender, seared chicken pieces are combined with pillowy potato gnocchi and a rich garlic-infused cream sauce, finished with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for a luxurious yet easy-to-make dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken & Gnocchi
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 lb potato gnocchi
Sauce & Seasonings
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken and Garlic: Pat the chicken dry and cut it into bite-sized pieces. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Mince the garlic cloves and grate the Parmesan cheese.
- Sear Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large (10-12 inch) skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer, working in batches if needed, and sear each side for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a clean plate and set aside.
- Build Flavor Base: Reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Add the minced garlic and sauté while stirring constantly for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Stir in the dried Italian herbs for another 30 seconds to release their aroma.
- Deglaze with Broth: Pour in the chicken broth, then increase heat to medium-high to bring it to a simmer. Use a wooden spoon to scrape the bottom of the skillet and loosen browned bits. Let the broth simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly and intensify flavor.
- Cook Gnocchi and Cream: Add the potato gnocchi directly to the simmering broth and pour in the heavy cream. Stir gently to combine, then bring to a gentle simmer again. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook uncovered for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the gnocchi is tender and the sauce thickens luxuriously.
- Combine and Finish: Return the seared chicken pieces to the skillet and fold them into the creamy gnocchi sauce to warm through. Remove the skillet from heat, then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and fully incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve and Garnish: Let the skillet rest off the heat for 2-3 minutes. Divide the Garlic Chicken Gnocchi among serving plates or bowls. Garnish generously with fresh basil leaves and offer extra grated Parmesan cheese at the table if desired.
Notes
- Cooking chicken in batches ensures even browning and prevents overcrowding.
- Be careful not to burn the garlic when sautéing; reduce heat if necessary.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer a little longer, stirring frequently.
- Fresh basil adds a lovely bright, herbal note – substitute with fresh parsley if desired.
- Use gnocchi straight from the package – no pre-boiling needed as it will cook in the sauce.
