Name: Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet: A Delicious One-Pan Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4-6 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium yellow onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish; 1 (17.6 ounce) package potato gnocchi; 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped; 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped; Optional: red pepper flakes, for garnish

Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet: Prepare to be amazed by this one-pan wonder that delivers restaurant-quality flavor in the comfort of your own kitchen! Forget complicated recipes and endless cleanup; this dish is all about maximum taste with minimal effort. I'm so excited to share this recipe with you because it's become a weeknight staple in my home, and I know it will be in yours too.

While gnocchi's origins trace back to ancient Rome, where it was made from semolina or bread crumbs, this particular skillet creation is a modern twist on a classic comfort food. It blends the pillowy softness of gnocchi with the savory goodness of garlic chicken, all simmered in a creamy, dreamy sauce.

What makes this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet so irresistible? It's the perfect combination of textures – the tender chicken, the slightly chewy gnocchi, and the luscious sauce that coats every bite. The garlicky flavor is bold but not overpowering, and the entire dish comes together in under 30 minutes. People adore this recipe because it's quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying. Plus, who doesn't love a one-pan meal? Less dishes means more time to relax and enjoy your delicious creation!

Ingredients:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
1 (17.6 ounce) package potato gnocchi
2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped
Optional: red pepper flakes, for garnish

Preparing the Chicken and Aromatics:

First, let's get our chicken ready. Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely in the skillet. Season them generously with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning (about 1/2 teaspoon). Toss to make sure each piece is evenly coated.
Now, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Make sure the skillet is nice and hot before adding the chicken. This will help create a good sear.
Add the chicken to the hot skillet in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. If you overcrowd it, the chicken will steam instead of brown. You might need to work in batches. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, or until it's cooked through and nicely browned on all sides. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. Don't worry about cleaning the skillet just yet – all those browned bits are full of flavor and will add depth to our sauce!
Reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes, or until it's softened and translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent it from burning.
Add the minced garlic and the remaining Italian seasoning to the skillet. Cook for about 1 minute more, stirring constantly, until the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

Creating the Creamy Sauce:

Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. These browned bits, also known as fond, are packed with flavor and will add richness to the sauce.
Bring the broth to a simmer and let it cook for a few minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly. This will concentrate the flavors and help thicken the sauce.
Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Continue to simmer the sauce for another 2-3 minutes, or until it's slightly thickened and the Parmesan cheese is melted and smooth. Stir constantly to prevent the sauce from sticking or burning.
Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add a pinch more salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning to suit your taste.

Cooking the Gnocchi and Assembling the Dish:

Add the gnocchi to the skillet with the sauce. Gently stir to coat the gnocchi evenly.
Cook the gnocchi according to the package directions, usually about 3-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface and are tender. Be careful not to overcook the gnocchi, as they can become mushy.
Once the gnocchi are cooked, stir in the cooked chicken, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted and the chicken is heated through.
Give everything a final stir to combine all the ingredients.

Serving and Garnishing:

Remove the skillet from the heat and let it sit for a minute or two to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
Serve the Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet immediately.
Garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes (if desired).
I like to serve this dish with a side of crusty bread for soaking up all that delicious sauce! A simple side salad also complements the richness of the gnocchi.

Tips and Variations:

Chicken Thighs: You can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts. Chicken thighs are often more flavorful and stay moist during cooking. Just make sure to trim any excess fat before cutting them into bite-sized pieces.
Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the skillet, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. Add them along with the onions and garlic.
Cheese: Instead of Parmesan cheese, you can use other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago. You can also add a touch of cream cheese or mascarpone cheese to the sauce for extra creaminess.
Spice: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or use a spicy Italian sausage instead of chicken.
Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or oregano can add a burst of flavor to the dish. Stir them in at the end of cooking.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce, add the gnocchi, and finish cooking according to the recipe instructions.
Storage: Store leftover Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.

Nutritional Information (approximate, per serving):

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

Calories: 600-700
Protein: 40-50g
Fat: 30-40g
Carbohydrates: 40-50g

Why This Recipe Works:

This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a winner because it's quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful. The combination of tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, creamy sauce, and fresh spinach is simply irresistible. It's a one-pan meal that's perfect for busy weeknights, and it's sure to become a family favorite. The use of simple ingredients and straightforward instructions makes it accessible to cooks of all skill levels. Plus, the recipe is easily customizable, so you can adapt it to your own preferences and dietary needs.

Troubleshooting:

Sauce too thick: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to thin it out.
Sauce too thin: If the sauce is too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes to allow it to reduce and thicken. You can also add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) to the sauce to help thicken it.
Gnocchi sticking: To prevent the gnocchi from sticking to the skillet, make sure the sauce is simmering gently and stir frequently. You can also add a little bit of olive oil or butter to the skillet to help prevent sticking.
Chicken dry: To prevent the chicken from drying out, don't overcook it. Cook it just until it's cooked through and no longer pink inside. You can also add a little bit of chicken broth or water to the skillet to help keep the chicken moist.

Conclusion:

This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet isn't just another weeknight dinner; it's a flavor explosion waiting to happen! The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and pillowy gnocchi combine to create a dish that's both comforting and incredibly satisfying. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try because it's quick, easy, and delivers restaurant-quality results without all the fuss. Forget complicated recipes and hours spent in the kitchen – this skillet wonder is your ticket to a delicious and stress-free meal. But the best part? It's incredibly versatile! Feel free to get creative with your serving suggestions and variations. For a lighter meal, serve it with a side of steamed broccoli or a fresh garden salad. The vibrant green of the vegetables will beautifully complement the creamy richness of the gnocchi. If you're feeling extra indulgent, sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top just before serving. The salty, nutty flavor of the Parmesan adds another layer of deliciousness that you won't want to miss. Looking for variations? You've got options! Swap out the chicken for Italian sausage for a heartier, more robust flavor. Or, if you're a vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and add some sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers. The possibilities are endless! You could even add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, or a squeeze of lemon juice for a bright, zesty finish. Don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own! I've poured my heart into perfecting this recipe, and I'm confident that you'll love it as much as I do. It's become a staple in my own kitchen, and I'm excited for it to become one in yours too. The beauty of this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet lies in its simplicity and the incredible depth of flavor it delivers. It's the perfect dish for a busy weeknight, a cozy weekend dinner, or even a special occasion. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your skillet, and get ready to experience the magic of this recipe. I promise you won't be disappointed. Once you've tried it, I'd absolutely love to hear about your experience! Did you make any modifications? What did you serve it with? What did your family think? Share your photos and stories in the comments below. Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me continue to create and share recipes that you'll love. I truly believe that cooking should be fun and accessible to everyone, and this recipe embodies that philosophy perfectly. It's a simple, straightforward dish that anyone can master, regardless of their cooking experience. So, go ahead, give it a try! I'm confident that you'll be amazed at how easy it is to create a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home. And remember, the most important ingredient is always love! Happy cooking! I can't wait to see what you create. Let me know how your Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet turns out!