If you are searching for a dish that wraps comfort, flavor, and ease into one unforgettable package, the Creamy Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Recipe is exactly what you need. This cozy, Italian-inspired meal combines tender chunks of chicken with pillowy gnocchi, tossed in a luscious garlic-infused creamy sauce that will have you coming back for seconds. Every bite carries the warmth of rich Parmesan and the fresh pop of spinach, creating a dish that feels both indulgent and nourishing. Whether you’re cooking for family or whipping up a weeknight dinner, this recipe promises satisfaction and simplicity in every forkful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, quality ingredients is the secret to making this Creamy Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Recipe shine. Each item plays a role in building layers of flavor, texture, and a vibrant look that is as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate.
- 1 pound potato gnocchi: Fresh, frozen, or shelf-stable all work great, providing soft, chewy pillows that soak up the creamy sauce beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity richness and helps crisp the chicken perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Brings depth and silkiness to the sauce while assisting in cooking the chicken evenly.
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces: Tender protein base that soaks up the sauce’s garlicky goodness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that brighten and balance every component.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: The star flavor providing that irresistible punch of savory warmth.
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that brings the essence of Italy to this comforting dish.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds moisture and a subtle savory depth to the creamy sauce.
- 3/4 cup heavy cream: Creates the luxuriously rich texture that coats every piece of chicken and gnocchi.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce for a sharp, nutty flavor boost.
- 2 cups fresh spinach: Provides a bright, fresh contrast and adds a lovely pop of color.
- Optional: red pepper flakes or fresh parsley for garnish: Spice or freshness to finish and personalize your plate.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Gnocchi
Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a rolling boil; this is crucial to season the gnocchi inside and out. Gently drop in your gnocchi and cook according to the package instructions, typically until they float to the surface, signaling they are perfectly tender. Drain them carefully and set aside, ready to soak up that incredible sauce you’ll prepare next.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
In a large skillet heated with olive oil and butter over medium-high flame, season your bite-sized chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper. Place them into the pan and let them cook undisturbed for about 5 to 7 minutes until each piece is gorgeously golden and cooked through. It’s important not to overcrowd the pan to get that beautiful sear. Once ready, remove the chicken and set it aside; it will return to the pan shortly.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic and Italian Seasoning
Reduce heat to medium and add your minced garlic to the same skillet. Sauté gently for about 30 seconds just until it releases that amazing fragrance – be careful not to burn it, as garlic can turn bitter quickly. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning to infuse the base with beautiful herbaceous notes that round out the flavors.
Step 4: Build the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine all those tasty browned bits stuck to the pan. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes so that the sauce reduces slightly and thickens into its heavenly creamy state.
Step 5: Finish the Sauce and Combine Everything
Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts smoothly into the sauce, creating that signature rich texture. Return your golden chicken pieces and the drained gnocchi to the skillet. Toss in the fresh spinach and cook just until wilted, around 2 to 3 minutes. Everything should glisten with that luscious sauce and be heated through perfectly, ready to enjoy.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Creamy Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Recipe even further, sprinkle some bright red pepper flakes over the top for a subtle kick that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce. Alternatively, a handful of freshly chopped parsley adds a burst of color and fresh herbaceous flavor that lightens each bite.
Side Dishes
This dish is wonderfully rich and filling on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed lightly in lemon vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts. If you want to keep it hearty, crusty garlic bread is always a winner for mopping up every last bit of that delicious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions or a fun dinner twist, serve the creamy chicken and gnocchi in individual shallow bowls, garnished artistically with microgreens or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. You can also pile the gnocchi and chicken atop a bed of pasta or creamy polenta for an indulgent variation that impresses without extra fuss.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers of the Creamy Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Recipe, no problem! Store them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually have a chance to meld even more, making for a delicious lunch or dinner the next day.
Freezing
Freezing this dish is best done without the spinach, which can get soggy. Place the chicken, gnocchi, and sauce in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stovetop.
Reheating
To bring your Creamy Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Recipe back to life, reheat it slowly over medium-low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the sauce thickened too much in the fridge, simply add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it to the perfect consistency.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought gnocchi for this recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh, frozen, or shelf-stable gnocchi all work wonderfully, so feel free to use whichever is most convenient for you. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package to ensure they are perfectly tender.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you prefer a lighter version, half-and-half or evaporated milk can replace heavy cream. The sauce will be a bit less rich but still creamy and delicious. Just keep an eye on the sauce as it cooks to avoid curdling.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes! Mushrooms and sun-dried tomatoes pair especially well with the Creamy Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Recipe. You can sauté them along with your garlic or add them when combining the chicken and gnocchi to the sauce.
What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs both work beautifully. Thighs tend to be juicier and more forgiving if you overcook them slightly, but breasts offer leaner protein with a mild flavor that absorbs the sauce well.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, you can use a plant-based cream alternative and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan. The garlic and Italian seasoning still give the dish plenty of flavor without the dairy.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Recipe is truly one of those dishes everyone will love — it’s warm, comforting, and surprisingly simple to put together. The harmony between tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and that irresistibly creamy garlic sauce makes each bite feel special. I encourage you to try this recipe soon; it’s perfect for any night when you want to create a satisfying meal with minimal fuss but maximum flavor.
Print
Creamy Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Description
This Creamy Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi recipe is a comforting one-pan Italian-inspired meal featuring tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, fresh spinach, and a rich garlic parmesan cream sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it delivers hearty flavors with simple ingredients and minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound potato gnocchi (fresh, frozen, or shelf-stable)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach
Optional Garnish
- Red pepper flakes
- Fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook the Gnocchi: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the potato gnocchi and cook according to package instructions until they float to the surface and are tender, usually 2-3 minutes. Drain the gnocchi and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Add them to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic and Add Liquids: Reduce the skillet heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté briefly for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Stir in the Italian seasoning, then pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Let the mixture simmer gently for 2-3 minutes to slightly reduce and thicken.
- Add Cheese and Combine: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Return the cooked chicken and drained gnocchi to the skillet. Add the fresh spinach and cook everything together, stirring occasionally, until the spinach wilts and the dish is heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
- Serve: Transfer to plates or bowls and garnish with red pepper flakes or fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm for a flavorful and hearty meal.
Notes
- For a lighter version of the sauce, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or evaporated milk.
- You can enhance flavor and texture by adding mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes along with the garlic.
- Use boneless chicken thighs for juicier meat; chicken breasts work well too.
- Be careful not to overcook the gnocchi as they can become mushy.
