Cozy Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe: Hearty Comfort in a Flash

Whipping up a quick chicken gnocchi skillet can turn an ordinary weeknight into a culinary adventure.

Something magical happens when tender potato dumplings meet succulent chicken pieces.

Herbs and creamy sauce bring incredible depth to this simple dish.

Weeknight cooking demands smart strategies, and this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.

Rich, comforting ingredients come together in one pan, creating a meal that feels both indulgent and effortless.

Comfort meets convenience in this delightful skillet that promises to satisfy your hunger and warm your soul.

You’ll want to savor every delectable bite of this irresistible chicken gnocchi creation.

Gnocchi Skillet Chicken Ingredients

• Chicken Thighs: Tender and flavorful meat that forms the protein base of the dish, best when bone-in for extra richness.
• Chicken Broth: Provides deep savory flavor and helps create the sauce's foundation.

• Half-and-Half, Heavy Cream: Creates a rich and creamy sauce with luxurious texture.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Adds smooth melting quality and mild cheese flavor to the sauce.
• Butter or Ghee: Provides rich cooking fat with smooth, golden undertones.

• Onion: Offers sweet and aromatic base flavor for the skillet dish.
• Mushrooms: Adds earthy depth and meaty texture to the sauce.
• Garlic: Brings robust and pungent flavor enhancement.
• Fresh Spinach: Introduces vibrant green color and nutritional boost.
• Italian Seasoning: Provides herbal complexity to the overall taste profile.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential for balanced seasoning and flavor development.
• Paprika: Adds subtle warmth and reddish color to the chicken.
• Red Pepper Chili Flakes: Optional spicy garnish for heat lovers.
• Fresh Parsley: Bright garnish for color and fresh herbal note.
• Gnocchi: Soft potato dumplings that serve as the main starch component.

Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Cooking Plan

Step 1: Sizzle Chicken to Perfection

Dust chicken thighs with zesty paprika, salt, and pepper.

Heat a large skillet over medium-high and melt butter until golden.

Drop seasoned chicken into the sizzling pan, cooking 5-7 minutes per side until beautifully caramelized and fully cooked.

Transfer chicken to a waiting plate.

Step 2: Dance Vegetables in the Pan

In the same skillet, toss diced onions and mushrooms.

Let them waltz and soften for 4-5 minutes.

Invite minced garlic and Italian seasoning to join the party, cooking 1-2 minutes until aromatically inviting.

Step 3: Create Creamy Liquid Gold

Pour chicken broth into the skillet, scraping up delicious browned bits.

Gently stream half-and-half, stirring continuously.

Sprinkle mozzarella cheese, stirring until sauce transforms into a velvety, rich embrace.

Step 4: Marry Gnocchi and Greens

Introduce cooked gnocchi and fresh spinach to the skillet.

Gently fold together, allowing spinach to tenderly wilt.

Season with additional salt and pepper to elevate flavors.

Step 5: Reunite Chicken with Comfort

Nestle cooked chicken thighs back into the gnocchi and sauce.

Let everything simmer 2-3 minutes, allowing flavors to intertwine and warm through.

Step 6: Serve with Flair

Sprinkle red pepper chili flakes and fresh parsley for a vibrant finish.

Plate immediately and savor each comforting bite.

Chicken Gnocchi Skillet One-Pan Tips

• Choose bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for maximum flavor and juiciness, ensuring they're fresh and evenly sized for consistent cooking.
• Allow chicken to develop a golden-brown crust by avoiding overcrowding the skillet, which helps lock in natural juices and creates delicious caramelization.
• Adjust sauce thickness by simmering longer for a richer texture or adding extra broth if it becomes too dense, creating a perfect creamy coating for gnocchi.
• Sauté mushrooms and onions until they release moisture and develop a rich, caramelized flavor, which adds depth to the overall dish's taste profile.
• Gently stir gnocchi to prevent clumping and ensure even coating with the creamy sauce, maintaining their delicate texture throughout cooking.

Chicken Gnocchi Skillet That Reheats With Ease

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep chilled for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Keep chicken, gnocchi, and sauce in different containers to maintain texture and prevent sogginess.
• Warm gently over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to restore moisture. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.
• Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval. Add a tablespoon of broth to prevent drying out and maintain creamy consistency.

Filling Sides for Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

• Perfect Pairings for Chicken Gnocchi Skillet
• Enhance Wine Selection: Choose crisp white wines like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc that complement the creamy sauce and cut through the richness of the dish.
• Craft Complementary Salad: Prepare a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette and shaved parmesan to balance the skillet's creamy texture and add fresh, zesty notes.
• Match Bread Companions: Serve crusty garlic bread or toasted rosemary focaccia to soak up the delicious sauce and provide a satisfying crunch alongside the tender gnocchi.
• Recommend Sparkling Beverage: Pair with a crisp prosecco or sparkling water with lemon to cleanse the palate and refresh between bites of the hearty chicken and gnocchi.

Chicken Gnocchi with New Ideas

• Turkey Swap: Replace chicken thighs with lean ground turkey or turkey breast for a lighter protein option.
• Plant-Based Option: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or tempeh, seasoned similarly for vegetarian diners.
• Seafood Version: Use shrimp or white fish fillets instead of chicken for a maritime-inspired meal.

• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Use gluten-free store-bought gnocchi or substitute with cauliflower gnocchi for reduced carbohydrates.
• Low-Dairy Version: Replace half-and-half with coconut milk and use dairy-free mozzarella cheese alternative.
• Keto-Friendly Approach: Swap traditional potato gnocchi with zucchini or cauliflower gnocchi to reduce carbohydrate content.

• Mediterranean Style: Add sun-dried tomatoes, kalamata olives, and swap Italian seasoning for oregano and basil.
• Spicy Southwest Twist: Incorporate jalapeños, swap mozzarella for pepper jack cheese, and sprinkle with cilantro.

FAQs

• What are gnocchi, and how are they made?

Gnocchi are soft, pillowy potato dumplings originating from Italy. They’re typically made by mixing mashed potatoes, flour, and eggs, then forming small dough pieces that are boiled until they float to the surface.

• Can I use store-bought or frozen gnocchi for this recipe?

Yes, store-bought or frozen gnocchi work perfectly in this skillet recipe. Just follow the package instructions for cooking, and they’ll integrate seamlessly with the chicken and sauce.

• Is this dish considered gluten-free?

Not automatically. Traditional gnocchi contain wheat flour, which has gluten. For a gluten-free version, look for gnocchi made from potato and gluten-free flour alternatives.

• What type of chicken works best for this recipe?

Chicken thighs are recommended for this recipe because they’re more flavorful and remain juicy. However, you can substitute with chicken breasts if preferred, just be careful not to overcook them.

What Makes Chicken Gnocchi Skillet So Comforting

• Quick and Easy Weeknight Delight: Whip up this chicken gnocchi skillet in under 30 minutes for a satisfying meal that doesn't demand complex cooking skills.
• Flavor-Packed One-Pan Wonder: Eliminate multiple dish cleanup by creating a complete meal in a single skillet, combining tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and creamy sauce with minimal kitchen effort.
• Customizable Comfort Food: Adapt the recipe easily by swapping chicken thighs for breasts, using different cheeses, or adding extra vegetables to suit personal taste preferences and dietary needs.
• Crowd-Pleasing Versatility: Perfect for family dinners, date nights, or casual gatherings, this dish offers restaurant-quality taste with homemade warmth and simplicity.

Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe

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4.7 from 29 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Creamy chicken gnocchi skillet brings Italian comfort to your dinner table with a rich, velvety sauce that perfectly coats tender potato dumplings and juicy chicken. Rich flavors and simple ingredients combine for a quick, satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 1.5 pounds (680 grams) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Skillet Base:

• 1 pound (454 grams) potato gnocchi, cooked according to package instructions and drained
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1 cup white mushrooms, diced
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 3 cups fresh spinach

Garnish (Optional):

• Red pepper chili flakes
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons butter or ghee

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Instructions

1. Prepare the protein by generously coating chicken thighs with aromatic paprika, salt, and pepper for robust flavor.
2. Heat a spacious skillet over medium-high temperature, introducing butter or ghee to create a golden searing environment for the seasoned chicken.
3. Cook chicken thighs approximately 5-7 minutes per side until perfectly caramelized and thoroughly cooked, then transfer to a holding plate.
4. Utilize the same skillet’s flavorful remnants to sauté diced onions and mushrooms, allowing them to soften and develop rich caramelization.
5. Introduce minced garlic and Italian seasoning, stirring briefly to release their intense aromatic qualities.
6. Deglaze the pan with chicken broth, scraping accumulated browned essence from the skillet’s surface to integrate deep, complex flavors.
7. Slowly incorporate half-and-half or heavy cream, creating a luxurious base while continuously stirring to prevent separation.
8. Melt shredded mozzarella into the liquid, whisking until the sauce reaches a smooth, slightly thickened consistency.
9. Gently fold cooked gnocchi and fresh spinach into the creamy mixture, allowing spinach to delicately wilt and absorb surrounding flavors.
10. Reintroduce seared chicken thighs, nestling them into the gnocchi and sauce to reheat and harmonize the dish’s elements.
11. Simmer briefly to marry all ingredients and intensify the overall flavor profile.
12. Optionally garnish with red pepper chili flakes and fresh parsley for a vibrant, elevated presentation.
13. Serve immediately while the dish maintains its optimal temperature and creamy texture.

Notes

• Customize the chicken seasoning by experimenting with different spice blends like Cajun or herbs de Provence for a flavor twist.
• Choose high-quality, thick-cut chicken thighs to ensure maximum tenderness and prevent drying out during cooking.
• Swap spinach with kale or Swiss chard for a nutrient-packed alternative that adds different texture and earthy undertones.
• Reduce overall dairy content by using lighter cream alternatives like coconut milk or Greek yogurt for a healthier version that still maintains creamy consistency.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 610
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 750 mg
• Fat: 32 g
• Saturated Fat: 16 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 54 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 36 g
• Cholesterol: 150 mg