Name: Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (4-6 thighs), seasoned with salt and pepper to taste; 1.5 teaspoons paprika; 1 pound potato gnocchi, cooked according to package instructions and drained; 5 tablespoons butter or ghee, divided; 1 medium yellow onion, diced; 1 cup white mushrooms, diced; 2 tablespoons minced garlic; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 cup chicken broth; ½ cup half and half (or heavy whipping cream); ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 3 cups spinach; Red pepper chili flakes, for serving; Shredded parmesan cheese, for serving; Fresh parsley, chopped, for serving

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If you are searching for a comfort-filled dinner that tastes like a cozy night in yet feels special enough for guests, this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe is going to blow you away. Tender, juicy chicken thighs seared to golden perfection mingle with pillowy potato gnocchi in a luscious garlic-infused creamy sauce. Fresh spinach and earthy mushrooms add vibrant color and texture, making each bite a perfect harmony of flavors and warmth. This recipe is one of my absolute favorites for busy weeknights when I want something hearty, fast, and utterly satisfying all in one skillet.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows several small bowls and plates of cooking ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface. In the center, there is a white bowl filled with uncooked gnocchi, which are small, pale yellow, and have a ridged texture. To the right, on a white plate, are raw pink pieces of chicken lightly sprinkled with black pepper. Around these, from top to bottom and left to right, there is a clear glass measuring cup with a light yellow liquid, a white bowl with fresh green spinach leaves, a small white bowl with chopped fresh herbs and crushed red chili flakes, a small bowl with cubes of yellow butter, a bowl with chopped white mushrooms, a glass bowl of finely chopped onions and minced garlic, a copper measuring cup with a white creamy liquid, a glass bowl of shredded mozzarella cheese, and a small white bowl of grated parmesan cheese. A small white dish holds red and green dried spices. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Simple, fresh ingredients come together effortlessly to create a dish packed with fresh flavors and beautiful textures. Each component plays a crucial role from creamy mozzarella to fragrant garlic and aromatic herbs, making this skillet dinner an absolute crowd-pleaser.

Potato gnocchi: These soft little dumplings absorb the sauce beautifully for comforting bites.
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Chosen for tenderness and flavor, seasoned to enhance the dish.
Paprika: Adds just the right hint of smoky warmth to the chicken.
Butter or ghee: For a rich, golden sauté base that brings everything together.
Yellow onion: Diced finely for sweetness and texture in the sauce.
White mushrooms: Add an earthy, meaty element that complements the chicken.
Minced garlic: The heart of the flavor in this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe.
Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs elevating the sauce with classic Mediterranean notes.
Chicken broth: Creates a flavorful base for the creamy sauce.
Half and half or heavy whipping cream: Adds silky richness that coats every bite.
Shredded mozzarella: Melts perfectly for gooey, cheesy goodness.
Fresh spinach: Provides a vibrant pop of green and a mild, fresh bite.
Red pepper chili flakes, parmesan, and parsley: Optional garnishes that add brightness, heat, and savory notes.

How to Make Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken thighs generously with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat 2 tablespoons of butter or ghee in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for 5 to 10 minutes on each side until the thighs turn a beautiful golden brown. This step locks in flavor and keeps them juicy. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter. Stir in minced garlic and Italian seasoning until fragrant, then toss in the diced onion and mushrooms. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and the mushrooms release their juicy tenderness, about 3 to 4 minutes. This step deepens the flavor base of your skillet and makes the sauce wonderfully savory.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and whisk it into the vegetables for about a minute as it warms. Gradually add the half and half or cream while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Next, stir in the shredded mozzarella and keep whisking for 2 to 3 minutes to combine everything into a silky, thickened sauce that promises every gnocchi bite to be rich and flavorful.

Step 4: Combine Gnocchi and Spinach

Now, gently stir in the cooked potato gnocchi and fresh spinach into the creamy sauce. The spinach wilts slightly from the heat but holds on to its freshness. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper if needed. This mixture is the heart of your Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe — creamy, savory, and packed with delightful textures.

Step 5: Return Chicken and Simmer

Place the golden chicken thighs back into the skillet nestling them into the gnocchi and sauce. Let everything simmer together for about 2 minutes so the chicken warms through and the flavors meld beautifully. Now your skillet is ready to serve.

How to Serve Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe

A white bowl with a brown rim contains a creamy pasta dish made of small gnocchi pieces mixed with golden brown seared pieces of meat on top, scattered with grated white cheese and red chili flakes. There are visible fresh green spinach leaves mixed throughout the sauce, adding a pop of color against the light yellow creamy sauce coating the pasta. A silver fork held by a woman's hand is lifting some gnocchi and meat from the dish. The bowl is placed on a light gray textured cloth over a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Top your skillet generously with freshly chopped parsley, a sprinkle of shredded parmesan, and a pinch of red pepper chili flakes for a touch of heat and color contrast. These garnishes add a fresh brightness and a delicious finishing touch that turns this dinner into a feast for the eyes and the palate.

Side Dishes

This dish shines perfectly on its own, but if you want to add sides, a crisp green salad or lightly steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli make great complements. For a heartier meal, crusty garlic bread pairs fabulously to scoop up every last bit of the creamy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this recipe family-style directly from the skillet for a warm, inviting presentation that encourages sharing and conversation. Alternatively, plate the gnocchi and chicken neatly with a drizzle of extra sauce and a sprinkle of parmesan for a restaurant-worthy experience at home.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftovers from this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken as it cools, so be prepared to add a splash of broth or cream when reheating.

Freezing

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers in a tightly sealed freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To maintain the texture of the gnocchi and chicken, freeze separately if possible and thaw overnight before reheating gently.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers over low heat on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a bit of chicken broth or cream as needed to loosen the sauce and keep the gnocchi tender. This will help restore a freshly-cooked taste and texture.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used if you prefer leaner meat, but be mindful to not overcook them as they can dry out more quickly than thighs. Adjust cooking time accordingly.

Is it necessary to cook the gnocchi before adding?

Yes, cooking the potato gnocchi according to package directions before adding it to the skillet ensures it reaches the perfect soft, pillowy texture and absorbs the creamy sauce well.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can substitute the butter for a dairy-free alternative like olive oil or vegan margarine, and swap the cream and mozzarella for dairy-free versions to make a delicious dairy-free Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe.

What if I don’t have half and half? Can I use milk?

Using milk alone won’t be as rich and creamy, but you can combine milk with a little melted butter or cream cheese to mimic the richness. Heavy cream is an even better substitute if you have it on hand.

How spicy is the dish with red pepper flakes?

The red pepper chili flakes are optional and can be adjusted to your heat preference. They add a gentle kick that balances the creaminess without overpowering the flavors.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe is one of those rare dishes that feels indulgent yet comes together quickly with wholesome ingredients. It’s perfect when you want comfort food that impresses, whether for a weeknight meal or a casual dinner with friends. I encourage you to make it your own with tweaks, garnishes, or sides, but most importantly, enjoy every creamy, garlicky, soulful bite.