One-Pan Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi

One of my fondest memories is from chilly autumn evenings, huddled around the kitchen table with my family, the scent of something warm and comforting wafting through the air. It was during these cozy nights that I first discovered the magic of One-Pan Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi. The beauty of this dish lies not just in its delicious flavors but also in the simplicity of its preparation. I can still see my mom whipping it up on a busy weeknight, effortlessly tossing everything into one pan and letting the magic happen.

This recipe has become a staple in my home, especially when the weather turns crisp and we crave something hearty yet easy to make. It’s perfect for gathering everyone around the table, sharing stories, and savoring every creamy, garlicky bite. Plus, it’s a lifesaver on those hectic days when time is short but love is abundant. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a favorite in my kitchen!

Why You’ll Love "One-Pan Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi"

• Quick and easy prep — dinner is ready in just 30 minutes!
• Minimal cleanup with just one pan to wash.
• Family-friendly flavors that even picky eaters will adore.
• Comforting and creamy, perfect for chilly evenings.
• Versatile recipe that can be adapted with whatever veggies you have on hand.
• Leftovers are great for lunch the next day or can easily be frozen for later.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 pound potato gnocchi, fresh or refrigerated for best texture
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, extra virgin for the best flavor
• 4 cloves garlic, minced, or more if you’re a garlic lover!
• 1 cup heavy cream, you can use half-and-half for a lighter version
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, freshly grated is ideal for smooth melting
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste, don’t be shy with the seasoning!
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish, this adds a lovely touch of color

Step-by-Step Instructions

Heat the Olive Oil

1. Grab a large skillet and place it over medium heat.
2. Add in 2 tablespoons of olive oil, letting it heat up until it shimmers, which should take about a minute.

Cook the Chicken

1. While the oil is heating, cut your 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
2. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken pieces to the skillet.
3. Season the chicken with salt and freshly ground black pepper, about ½ teaspoon of each should do.
4. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until it’s golden brown and cooked through (no pink inside!).
5. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

Sauté the Garlic

1. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic (that’s 4 cloves, or more if you’re feeling adventurous!).
2. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute, stirring constantly so it doesn’t burn. You want it fragrant and lightly golden.

Prepare the Gnocchi

1. Next, toss in your 1 pound of potato gnocchi into the skillet with the sautéed garlic.
2. Stir the gnocchi around to coat them in all that garlicky goodness, cooking for about 2 minutes just to get them a little toasty.

Make the Creamy Sauce

1. Now, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring to combine everything together.
2. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, which should take just a minute.
3. Add in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it’s melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
4. If it seems too thick, don’t worry! Just add a splash of water or more cream to reach your desired consistency.

Combine and Serve

1. Slice the cooked chicken into strips and return it to the skillet.
2. Gently toss everything together until the chicken is well-coated in the creamy sauce.
3. Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.
4. Serve immediately, and get ready to enjoy this comforting dish!

Variations

• Add spinach or kale for a boost of greens and color.
• Substitute chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist.
• Use cauliflower gnocchi for a lower-carb option.
• Try adding sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy flavor kick.
• For a lighter dish, swap heavy cream with coconut milk.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving

Serve your One-Pan Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi warm, garnished with fresh parsley for that extra touch. Pair it with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. It’s perfect for cozy family dinners or casual gatherings!

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the dish for up to a month. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or water to bring back the sauce’s creaminess.

Helpful Notes

• For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in herbs or lemon juice for 30 minutes before cooking.
• Feel free to substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version, but add it off the heat to avoid curdling.
• To make it dairy-free, use cashew cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
• Leftover chicken works great in this recipe, just adjust cooking time accordingly.
• Add mushrooms or bell peppers for extra texture and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze One-Pan Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi?

Yes, you can freeze this dish! Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the freezer for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop.

How can I substitute gnocchi?

If you don’t have gnocchi on hand, you can substitute it with small pasta shapes like fusilli or penne. Just cook the pasta according to the package instructions before adding it to the sauce, and be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

What can I serve with this dish?

This One-Pan Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or some roasted vegetables. You could also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious creamy sauce!

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! To make this dish dairy-free, use cashew cream or coconut milk instead of heavy cream, and substitute nutritional yeast for the Parmesan cheese. Just make sure to stir it in off the heat to avoid any curdling.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this One-Pan Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi a try! It’s one of those dishes that wraps you in a warm hug with every bite. Whether you're cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself after a long day, this recipe is sure to bring smiles around the table. It’s comforting, delicious, and oh-so-easy to whip up. Remember, cooking should be fun, a little chaotic, and filled with love. So grab your ingredients, turn on some music, and let's make some memories in the kitchen together. You’ve got this, and I can’t wait for you to savor the results!

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