Name: Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 lb potato gnocchi (fresh or store-bought); 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream (or dairy-free alternative); ½ cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option); ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp olive oil or unsalted butter; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1 cup spinach or kale (optional); Salt and pepper to taste; Red pepper flakes (optional)

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Why Make This Recipe

Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a comforting and satisfying dish that brings together tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and a rich, creamy sauce. This meal is perfect for a cozy night in or a quick dinner during a busy week. It’s simple to make and is sure to be a hit with the whole family.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Ingredients:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 lb potato gnocchi (fresh or store-bought)
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream (or dairy-free alternative)
½ cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp olive oil or unsalted butter
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 cup spinach or kale (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions:

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring to a simmer.
Stir in the heavy cream and bring everything to a gentle boil.
Add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and combined.
If using spinach or kale, add it now and stir until wilted.
Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet, followed by the gnocchi. Stir until everything is well coated and heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
If desired, sprinkle with red pepper flakes before serving.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Serve the Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet immediately while it’s hot. It goes well with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top will enhance the flavor even more.

How to Store Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Store leftover Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove with a splash of broth or cream to restore its creamy texture.

Tips to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

For extra flavor, consider adding other herbs like thyme or basil.
If you prefer a lighter option, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
You can also customize this recipe by adding other vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms.

Variation

For a vegetarian version, simply skip the chicken and use more vegetables instead. You can also replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth to keep it meat-free.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen gnocchi. Just cook it according to the package instructions before adding it to the skillet.

2. What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use coconut cream, cashew cream, or even a thick dairy-free milk as a substitute for heavy cream.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Chicken Gnocchi Skillet ahead of time. However, it’s best when served fresh as the gnocchi might become mushy when reheated. If making ahead, store the elements separately and combine them before serving.