If you’re looking for a soul-satisfying dinner that’s both comforting and impressive, this Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi Skillet Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender chicken pieces nestled in pillowy gnocchi, all enveloped in a luscious, cheesy cream sauce with a hint of smoky paprika and tangy sun-dried tomatoes. It’s a one-pan miracle that delivers deep flavors, vibrant colors, and a perfect balance of textures — all ready in just about 25 minutes. Once you try this, it’ll quickly become one of your go-to weeknight favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi Skillet Recipe lies in its simple, thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in layering flavor, adding texture, or lending color to the dish, so gathering everything is the first step toward a delicious success.
- Olive oil: For a light, fruity base that helps brown the chicken to perfection.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Tender and quick-cooking, these provide the hearty protein foundation.
- Italian seasoning: A mix of herbs that adds an aromatic depth to the chicken.
- Salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the skillet.
- Pepper: Just enough to add a mild kick and warmth.
- Salted butter: Adds richness and a hint of creaminess when melted with garlic.
- Minced garlic: Brings a fragrant punch that uplifts the entire dish.
- Unsalted chicken stock: Adds moisture and savory notes without overpowering the creaminess.
- Heavy whipping cream: The star ingredient that creates the luxurious, silky sauce.
- Potato gnocchi: Soft and pillowy dumplings that soak up the sauce beautifully.
- Smoked paprika: Introduces a subtle smoky depth and gorgeous color.
- Sun-dried tomatoes: Provide tangy bursts that brighten the creamy richness.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Boosts the savory flavor and lends a nutty sharpness.
- Baby spinach leaves: Add freshness and vibrant green color, wilting perfectly into the sauce.
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a large, 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the chicken pieces seasoned with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sauté them until golden brown and cooked through, which should take about 6 minutes. The juicy chicken will create a delicious crust that sets the flavor base for your skillet. Once done, transfer it to a plate and keep it warm.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for just 20 seconds, until it fills the kitchen with its irresistible aroma. Seizing this moment of fragrant garlic-infused butter will infuse the entire dish with a lovely richness.
Step 3: Deglaze the Pan
Pour in the chicken stock to deglaze the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to carefully scrape up all those browned bits stuck to the bottom — they’re packed with flavor and will deepen your sauce. This simple action transforms any leftover caramelized goodness into an intense, savory backdrop.
Step 4: Add Cream and Gnocchi
Next, stir in the heavy whipping cream and add the potato gnocchi. Let everything simmer together gently for about 5 minutes. During this time, the sauce thickens just enough to coat the gnocchi while they cook to pillowy tenderness. This is where the magic of the Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi Skillet Recipe really begins to shine.
Step 5: Season and Enrich
Lower the heat and mix in smoked paprika, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese. These ingredients elevate the dish, adding smoky warmth, a sweet-tart pop, and savory richness respectively. Stir them thoroughly until the cheese melts and everything melds into one cohesive, dreamy sauce.
Step 6: Wilt the Spinach
Add the baby spinach leaves and give them a gentle stir as they wilt into the warm sauce. The spinach infuses fresh vibrancy and a splash of color, while balancing the richness with its natural earthiness. If the sauce seems too thick, a splash of water will help loosen it up instantly.
Step 7: Bring It All Together
Finally, return the cooked chicken back to the skillet and gently toss it to coat in the creamy sauce. Remove from heat and prepare to serve immediately, as this dish tastes best fresh and warm. Each forkful will have everything working perfectly in harmony.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes truly make a difference. Sprinkle some extra grated Parmesan or chopped fresh parsley over the skillet for a bright finish. A small drizzle of good quality olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can also awaken the flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
This dish shines solo, but pairing it with a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette beautifully offsets the creamy richness. Garlic bread or a crusty loaf is fantastic for mopping up any leftover sauce, making every bite linger delightfully.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi Skillet Recipe family-style right from the pan for a warm, inviting vibe. Alternatively, individual portions in shallow bowls topped with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs create an elegant look perfect for entertaining guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The creamy sauce will thicken overnight but will still taste delicious the next day.
Freezing
Freezing this dish isn’t ideal because cream-based sauces can separate, but if you must, freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers on the stove over low heat while stirring frequently. Add a splash of water or chicken stock to loosen the sauce and bring back its silky texture without drying out the gnocchi or chicken.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought gnocchi for this recipe?
Yes! Store-bought potato gnocchi works wonderfully here and saves a lot of time, while still delivering that soft, comforting bite in the finished dish.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you prefer a lighter version, half-and-half or whole milk can be used, but keep in mind the sauce will be less rich and creamy.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Traditional gnocchi contains gluten, but you can find gluten-free gnocchi varieties or make your own with gluten-free flour to keep this recipe safe for gluten-sensitive diets.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the smoked paprika, or finish with a dash of hot sauce to taste, giving it a gentle kick without overpowering the creaminess.
Can I use other greens instead of spinach?
Absolutely! Kale or Swiss chard work well — just make sure to chop and cook them a bit longer than spinach to soften them properly.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi Skillet Recipe is genuinely one of those dishes you’ll find yourself craving again and again. It’s quick to pull together, packed with flavor, and delivers that cozy feel that makes dinner special without any fuss. Give it a go, and enjoy a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug straight from the skillet to your heart.
Print
Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi recipe is a comforting and flavorful dish combining tender pan-cooked chicken, pillowy potato gnocchi, and a rich creamy sauce infused with garlic, smoked paprika, sundried tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese. Finished with fresh baby spinach, it offers a delightful balance of savory and fresh flavors, perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into ¾-inch pieces
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
Sauce & Gnocchi
- 2 Tablespoons salted butter
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 cup unsalted chicken stock
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 package (16 ounces) potato gnocchi
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- â…“ cup sundried tomatoes, chopped
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 ½ cup baby spinach leaves
Instructions
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Transfer cooked chicken to a plate, cover, and set aside.
- Sauté garlic: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 20 seconds, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Deglaze the pan: Pour in the chicken stock and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet, adding rich flavor to the sauce.
- Add cream and gnocchi: Stir in the heavy whipping cream, then add the potato gnocchi. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly and the gnocchi become tender.
- Combine seasonings and cheese: Reduce heat to medium-low, stir in smoked paprika, sundried tomatoes, and grated Parmesan cheese until evenly combined and creamy.
- Add spinach: Fold in the baby spinach leaves and stir until they wilt into the sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add a little water to reach your desired consistency.
- Return chicken to skillet and serve: Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet, stirring to coat it thoroughly in the creamy sauce. Remove the pan from heat and serve immediately for a warm, satisfying meal.
Notes
- Use store-bought potato gnocchi for convenience; fresh gnocchi can be used if preferred.
- Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
- If the sauce becomes too thick while simmering, gradually add water or chicken stock to loosen.
- Sundried tomatoes add a tangy sweetness—drain excess oil if packed in oil.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a lighter cream.
