30-Minute Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet (+Video)

This 30-Minute Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet (+Video) is a delightful meal that brings comfort and flavor to your table in just half an hour. Perfect for busy weeknights, it combines tender chicken and soft gnocchi in a creamy garlic sauce that everyone will love. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress with its ease and deliciousness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavorful: The creamy garlic sauce enhances the taste of the chicken and gnocchi, creating a mouthwatering experience.
Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasoning to suit your taste.
Family-Friendly: With its rich flavor and comforting texture, it’s a meal that everyone, including kids, will enjoy.
One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one skillet.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large skillet
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups
Knife
Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

Large skillet: This allows even cooking for all ingredients at once while providing enough space for stirring.
Wooden spoon: Ideal for scraping up flavorful bits from the pan without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

For the Chicken

1 lb boneless (skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces)

For the Gnocchi

1 lb potato gnocchi

For the Sauce

6 cloves garlic (minced (because there’s no such thing as too much garlic!))
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For Cooking

2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp dried Italian herbs
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

How to Make 30-Minute Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet (+Video)

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, and dried Italian herbs. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it – we want that gorgeous garlic flavor!

Step 3: Add the Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. These little flavor bombs will enhance your sauce!

Step 4: Cook the Gnocchi

Add the gnocchi to the skillet and bring to a simmer. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until tender.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

Reduce heat to medium-low and pour in heavy cream. Stir gently and let simmer for another 2-3 minutes until thickened.

Step 6: Combine Chicken and Cheese

Add cooked chicken back along with grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and heated through.

Step 7: Final Touches

Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Remember, it’s easier to add than take away!

Now you have a delicious 30-Minute Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet ready to be served! Enjoy this comforting meal that can be enjoyed on any occasion.

How to Serve 30-Minute Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet (+Video)

This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this comforting dish.

Pair with Fresh Salad

A simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the creamy gnocchi beautifully.

Top with Extra Herbs

Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley over the skillet just before serving for an added burst of flavor and color.

Serve with Crusty Bread

Offer slices of warm, crusty bread on the side for sopping up the delicious creamy sauce. It’s a sure way to elevate your meal.

Add a Splash of Lemon

A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing twist to the dish.

Garnish with More Cheese

For cheese lovers, consider grating additional Parmesan cheese over each serving for an even richer taste.

How to Perfect 30-Minute Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet (+Video)

Perfecting this recipe is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish comes out great every time.

Use high-quality chicken – Selecting fresh, high-quality chicken will enhance the overall flavor of your dish.
Don’t rush the garlic – Sauté garlic just until fragrant; burning it can lead to bitterness in your sauce.
Stir gently – When adding the cream and cheese, stir gently to keep the gnocchi intact and prevent them from becoming mushy.
Adjust seasoning – Always taste before serving. Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for optimal flavor balance.

Best Side Dishes for 30-Minute Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet (+Video)

Enhancing your meal with complementary side dishes can make dinner even more enjoyable. Here are some great options to consider.

Garlic Bread – This classic side is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce and adds extra garlic flavor.
Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds a nutritious crunch and vibrant color that pairs well with creamy dishes.
Roasted Asparagus – Toss asparagus spears in olive oil, season, and roast until tender for a deliciously elegant side.
Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing contrast to the richness of the skillet.
Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and creamy Caesar dressing provide a classic pairing that complements the flavors beautifully.
Sautéed Spinach – Quick sautéed spinach with garlic makes for an easy yet flavorful side that’s rich in nutrients.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking the 30-Minute Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet can be quick and easy, but there are common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking your chicken too long can make it dry. Aim for a golden brown color and ensure it is cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
Not Salting the Water for Gnocchi: Forgetting to salt the water can lead to bland gnocchi. Always salt your boiling water before adding the gnocchi for enhanced flavor.
Burning the Garlic: Garlic can burn quickly, leading to a bitter taste. Sauté it just until fragrant (about 30 seconds) and watch it closely.
Skipping the Scrape: Neglecting to scrape up the browned bits from the skillet means missing out on flavor. Use a wooden spoon to incorporate those delicious bits into your sauce.
Adding Cheese Too Early: Adding Parmesan cheese too early can cause it to clump. Stir it in at the end when everything is off the heat for a smooth finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing 30-Minute Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet (+Video)

Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers.
Best consumed within 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating 30-Minute Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet (+Video)

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until hot.
Stovetop: Add a splash of broth or water to a skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about this recipe:

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can substitute chicken with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I use homemade gnocchi?

Absolutely! Homemade gnocchi will add an extra touch of love and flavor to your dish.

How do I store leftovers from the 30-Minute Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet (+Video)?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 2 months.

What sides pair well with this dish?

A simple green salad or steamed vegetables complement the richness of this skillet perfectly.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or feta for varied flavors.

Final Thoughts

The 30-Minute Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is not only quick and comforting but also versatile enough for any weeknight dinner. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasonings. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delightful meal that will please everyone at your table!