If you are craving a dinner that feels like a warm hug and comes together quickly, you have to try this Best Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet | One Pan Dinner Recipe. Imagine tender, juicy chicken thighs nestled alongside pillowy gnocchi, all swimming in a luscious garlic cream sauce, brightened by fresh spinach and earthy mushrooms. This dish is not just spectacularly delicious, but it also simplifies dinnertime by bringing everything together in one skillet for minimal cleanup. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe always delivers comfort and flavor in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but work harmoniously to deliver incredible flavor and texture. Each plays a vital role, from the tender gnocchi and savory chicken to the fresh vegetables that add color and nutrients.
- 1 pound potato gnocchi, cooked: Use store-bought or homemade gnocchi for that soft, pillowy base.
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Juicy and flavorful, chicken thighs hold up well in the skillet and stay tender.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning the chicken perfectly.
- 1.5 teaspoon paprika: Adds a subtle smoky warmth to the chicken.
- 5 tablespoons butter or ghee: Creates a rich, silky base for sautéing and the creamy sauce.
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced: Offers a sweet, mellow contrast once caramelized.
- 1 cup white mushrooms, diced: Earthy mushrooms contribute depth to the dish.
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic: The star flavor here, giving the dish its irresistible aroma.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that ties the flavors beautifully together.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Adds savory richness while creating the sauce base.
- 1/2 cup half and half or heavy whipping cream: Makes the sauce luxuriously creamy without being too heavy.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella: Melts into the sauce for gooey, cheesy goodness.
- 3 cups spinach: Adds fresh, healthy greens and a pop of vibrant color.
- Red pepper chili flakes: Optional for a little kick to awaken the palate.
- Shredded parmesan and parsley for serving: Finishing touches that enhance flavor and presentation.
How to Make Best Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet | One Pan Dinner Recipe
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Start by patting the chicken thighs dry and seasoning generously with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat 2 tablespoons of butter or ghee in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the chicken thighs and sear them for about 5 to 10 minutes on each side until they develop a gorgeous golden-brown crust. This step locks in the juices and layers in flavor. Once cooked, place the chicken on a plate and set it aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables
Next, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter in the same skillet. Toss in the minced garlic and Italian seasoning, letting the fragrant spices bloom for about 30 seconds. Then add the diced onions and mushrooms. Sauté everything together until the onions become translucent and the mushrooms soften, about 3 to 4 minutes. This creates a savory base that elevates the entire skillet.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and whisk it vigorously to deglaze the pan and gently warm the liquid. Then, while continuing to whisk, slowly add the half and half or heavy whipping cream. This gradual incorporation helps prevent separation and creates a smooth sauce. Stir in the shredded mozzarella, letting it melt perfectly into the sauce as it thickens gently, about 2 to 3 minutes. This creamy, cheesy sauce is where all the magic happens.
Step 4: Combine with Gnocchi and Spinach
Add the cooked potato gnocchi to the skillet along with fresh spinach leaves. Stir everything together to coat each gnocchi and wilt the spinach evenly. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. The spinach adds a delightful freshness and lifts the richness of the sauce beautifully.
Step 5: Reintroduce Chicken and Simmer
Finally, nestle the seared chicken thighs back into the skillet. Allow everything to simmer gently for about 2 minutes to let the chicken warm through and flavors meld. The dish is now ready to be garnished and served piping hot.
How to Serve Best Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet | One Pan Dinner Recipe
Garnishes
To take this dish over the top, sprinkle freshly grated parmesan, chopped parsley, and a pinch of red pepper chili flakes. These simple garnishes add brightness, a touch of herbaceous earthiness, and just enough heat if you like a little spice. They turn an already beautiful skillet into a showstopper.
Side Dishes
This recipe is wonderfully complete on its own, but if you’re looking to round out the meal, consider light, crisp sides like a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or roasted asparagus. Garlic bread also pairs wonderfully, perfect for scooping up every last bit of that creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy family dinner, serve straight from the skillet at the table, encouraging everyone to dig in family-style. For a more refined gathering, plate individual portions on warmed dishes, garnished with a drizzle of high-quality olive oil and an extra sprinkle of parmesan. Adding a lemon wedge on the side for a fresh squeeze of citrus can brighten the flavors beautifully.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Best Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet | One Pan Dinner Recipe keeps well refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors marry even more during this time, making for a delicious next-day meal.
Freezing
If you wish to freeze the skillet, allow it to cool completely before transferring into a freezer-safe container. It will maintain its best quality for up to 1 month. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave on medium power in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even heating and prevent the cream sauce from breaking.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breast works fine, but thighs tend to stay juicier and more tender in this skillet recipe. If you use breast, be careful not to overcook it to avoid dryness.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The dish can be gluten-free if you use gluten-free gnocchi and ensure your chicken broth doesn’t contain gluten. Always check ingredient labels to be certain.
Can I substitute fresh spinach with another green?
Yes, kale or Swiss chard can be used as alternatives, though you might want to sauté them a bit longer as they are tougher than spinach.
What if I don’t have half and half or heavy cream?
You can substitute with whole milk mixed with a tablespoon of flour to thicken, but the sauce won’t be as rich and creamy. For a dairy-free option, try coconut cream.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, replace chicken with hearty mushrooms or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. It’s still delicious and comforting!
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend the Best Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet | One Pan Dinner Recipe enough for anyone looking for a comforting, flavorful meal that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum joy. Its blend of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and fresh vegetables all in one skillet makes it a true weeknight hero. Give it a try and watch it become a family favorite you turn to again and again!
Print
Best Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet | One Pan Dinner Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This garlic chicken gnocchi skillet is a quick and easy one-pan dinner perfect for weeknights. Featuring juicy chicken thighs, tender gnocchi, and a creamy sauce loaded with mushrooms, onions, and spinach, this meal is comforting, flavorful, and family-friendly. Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s also adaptable for gluten-free diets and makes excellent meal prep for busy days.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (4–6 thighs), seasoned with salt and pepper to taste
- 1.5 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1 cup white mushrooms, diced
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 3 cups spinach
Dairy and Liquids
- 5 tablespoons butter or ghee
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup half and half (or heavy whipping cream)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Other Ingredients
- 1 pound potato gnocchi, cooked according to the package and drained
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Red pepper chili flakes, shredded parmesan, and parsley for serving
Instructions
- Season Chicken: Season the chicken thighs evenly with salt, pepper, and paprika to infuse flavor into the meat before cooking.
- Cook Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of butter or ghee in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken thighs and cook them for 5–10 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter. Add minced garlic and Italian seasoning, stirring briefly to release their aromas. Then add diced onions and mushrooms and sauté until the onions become translucent and mushrooms are tender, about 3–4 minutes.
- Create Cream Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and whisk for about one minute until heated through. Gradually whisk in the half and half or cream, continuously stirring to blend smoothly. Stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese and continue whisking for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Add Gnocchi and Spinach: Stir in the cooked potato gnocchi and spinach into the sauce. Adjust seasoning by adding additional salt and pepper if needed to balance the flavors.
- Simmer Chicken: Return the cooked chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Let everything simmer together for about 2 minutes to ensure the chicken is warmed through and flavors meld.
- Garnish and Serve: Finish the dish by garnishing with freshly chopped parsley, shredded parmesan cheese, and red pepper chili flakes as desired for an extra kick and fresh taste. Serve hot directly from the skillet.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, ensure the potato gnocchi you purchase is labeled gluten-free.
- Chicken thighs are preferred for juiciness, but chicken breasts can be used if desired; adjust cooking times accordingly.
- Heavy cream can be substituted with half and half for a lighter sauce, but cream will yield a richer texture.
- Red pepper chili flakes are optional but add a nice subtle heat to the dish.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop.
