Name: Savory Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Ingredients: 2 large chicken breasts; 16 oz potato gnocchi; 1 cup heavy cream; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cups fresh spinach; 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon butter; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

I’ve made this Savory Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Skillet more times than I can count, and every single time, it delivers comfort in the coziest, most flavorful way. Creamy, garlicky, and packed with golden-brown chicken and pillowy gnocchi, this one-skillet wonder has become a weeknight staple in my kitchen. The moment I see those crispy bits forming on the bottom of the pan, I know dinner’s about to be spectacular.

What I especially love about this dish is how effortless it is. It’s a hearty meal that feels indulgent, yet comes together so quickly. With just a few ingredients and one pan, it’s ideal for busy evenings when I still want something that feels a bit special. Whether I’m cooking for family or just treating myself, this skillet has never let me down.

Why You’ll Love This Savory Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Skillet

This dish checks all the boxes: creamy, comforting, quick, and packed with flavor. The tender chicken is seasoned to perfection, the gnocchi soaks up every bit of that garlicky cream sauce, and the spinach adds just enough freshness to balance everything out. Best of all, it’s made entirely in one skillet — less mess, more delicious.

What Kind of Gnocchi Should I Use?

Shelf-stable potato gnocchi works beautifully in this recipe, and it’s what I use most often. You can also use refrigerated gnocchi or even frozen, just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly and add a splash of extra broth if needed. The key is to let the gnocchi simmer gently in the sauce so it becomes tender and infused with flavor.

Options for Substitutions

Don’t have chicken breast? Boneless thighs are just as tasty and offer a juicier bite. You can swap the spinach for kale or even arugula for a peppery kick. Not a fan of cream? Try using half-and-half or a splash of milk with a little cornstarch to thicken. This dish is wonderfully flexible — make it your own with what you have on hand.

Ingredients for this Savory Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Skillet

Chicken breast – Sliced thin and seasoned, it’s the protein centerpiece that gets golden and flavorful in the skillet.
Potato gnocchi – These soft dumplings absorb all the creamy garlic sauce and add pillowy texture.
Heavy cream – Gives the dish its rich, luxurious base.
Garlic – Adds warmth and depth; don’t skimp on this.
Parmesan cheese – Melts into the sauce for that perfect salty, nutty finish.
Fresh spinach – Balances out the richness with a bit of color and earthy freshness.
Sun-dried tomatoes – Bring a sweet and tangy punch that cuts through the cream.
Olive oil & butter – For sautéing and layering flavor.
Salt & pepper – Simple but essential for seasoning each layer.
Italian seasoning – A fragrant blend that boosts the savory flavors.

Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken

Slice the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces or thin strips. Pat them dry, then season generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. This step is key for a flavorful sear.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat a mix of olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in batches (don’t crowd the pan) and sear until golden brown on all sides and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add a bit more butter if needed, then toss in the minced garlic. Sauté just until fragrant — about 30 seconds to 1 minute — being careful not to burn it.

Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan and season with more Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it bubble gently until it thickens slightly, about 3–5 minutes.

Step 5: Cook the Gnocchi in the Sauce

Add the uncooked gnocchi directly into the sauce. Let them simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and become tender. They’ll soak up all that garlicky, cheesy goodness.

Step 6: Add Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Toss in the fresh spinach and sun-dried tomatoes. Stir until the spinach wilts and everything is evenly combined.

Step 7: Return Chicken to the Skillet

Add the seared chicken back into the skillet and stir everything together. Let it cook for another 2–3 minutes so all the flavors meld.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Finish with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan and chopped fresh parsley. Serve straight from the skillet while everything is creamy, hot, and bubbling.

How Long to Prepare the Savory Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Skillet

Prep Time: Most of the prep involves slicing the chicken and mincing garlic, which takes about 10–15 minutes. You can speed this up further by using pre-minced garlic or chicken tenders.

Cook Time: Once you begin searing the chicken, the dish comes together in roughly 25–30 minutes. Cooking the gnocchi directly in the sauce saves time and dishes, making this a fast yet satisfying dinner.

Tips for Perfect Savory Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Skillet

Don’t skip seasoning the chicken before searing — it creates a flavorful crust.
Use a non-stick or cast iron skillet for even browning and easier cleanup.
Let the sauce simmer gently; boiling may cause the cream to separate.
Add spinach last to preserve its color and texture.
Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving — Parmesan adds saltiness, so balance accordingly.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Overcrowding the skillet: This prevents proper searing. Cook the chicken in batches if needed.
Using too much heat for garlic: Garlic burns quickly and can make the sauce bitter.
Skipping the simmer: The gnocchi needs time to absorb the sauce and soften properly.
Using low-quality cream or cheese: These are flavor powerhouses in this dish — don’t skimp.
Neglecting to stir: Stirring gently prevents sticking and helps everything cook evenly.

What to Serve With Savory Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Skillet?

1. Garlic Bread

Crunchy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.

2. Simple Green Salad

A fresh salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.

3. Roasted Vegetables

Carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus add extra nutrition and color.

4. White Wine

A crisp Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay pairs beautifully with the creamy, garlicky flavors.

5. Steamed Broccoli

For a light and healthy contrast to the indulgent sauce.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.

Freezer: While possible, freezing is not ideal due to the cream-based sauce. If you must freeze, do so before adding the spinach and cream, then finish the dish upon reheating.

Reheating Tips: Use medium-low heat to reheat and stir often to keep the sauce smooth. Add a bit of Parmesan or cream if it feels dry.

Estimated Nutrition (per serving)

Calories: 520 kcal
Protein: 34g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Carbohydrates: 34g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 650mg
Cholesterol: 105mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen gnocchi?

Yes, just adjust the cooking time and add a bit more liquid if needed. No need to thaw — just simmer longer.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

Half-and-half or evaporated milk are good lighter alternatives. You may need a thickener like cornstarch.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Not by default, but you can use gluten-free gnocchi and double-check your Parmesan and cream for hidden gluten.

Can I add mushrooms?

Absolutely! Sauté mushrooms after the chicken and before the garlic to deepen the umami flavor.

How do I make it spicy?

Add red pepper flakes to the garlic or a dash of hot sauce when finishing the sauce.

Conclusion

The Savory Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Skillet is everything you want in a comforting dinner — creamy, garlicky, rich, and full of satisfying textures. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just treating yourself on a quiet evening, this dish brings big flavor with very little fuss. It’s versatile, fast, and guaranteed to earn a permanent spot in your meal rotation.