Welcome to the World of Comfort Food!
Hey there! If you’re looking for a dinner that’s not only delicious but also super easy to whip up, you’re in the right place! I absolutely love this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet recipe because it combines tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and fragrant garlic—all cooked in one pan! Seriously, it doesn’t get much better than that. Plus, this meal is comforting enough to share with friends or keep all to yourself for a cozy night in!
Nutritional Benefits of this Dish
Let’s talk about the good stuff! This recipe not only satisfies your taste buds but also packs nutritional value. Chicken is a fantastic source of lean protein, which helps you stay full and energized. Gnocchi, made from potatoes, can be a good source of carbs to give you that necessary energy boost after a long day. And let’s not forget garlic—this superstar ingredient is known for its numerous health benefits, including immune-boosting properties and heart health support. What more could you ask for in a meal?
Fun Adaptable Variations
- Swap the Protein: Don’t have chicken on hand? You can easily substitute it with turkey or even shrimp! Just adjust the cooking time a bit since shrimp cooks faster.
- Gnocchi Alternatives: If you’re feeling adventurous, try using mini tortellini or even whole wheat gnocchi for a healthier twist.
- Vegan Option: For my plant-based friends, swap out the chicken for chickpeas and use a vegan butter or olive oil instead. Delicious!
Easy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups spinach (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and cooked through—about 6-8 minutes.
- Once the chicken is cooked, add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute, stirring to avoid burning.
- Next, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer.
- Now it’s time to add the gnocchi! Stir them in and let everything simmer together for about 3-4 minutes until the gnocchi start to float.
- Add in the heavy cream and spinach, then cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed! Serve warm, topped with parmesan cheese if you’d like.
Practical & Valuable Tips
- To reduce the cooking time, use pre-cooked chicken. Just add it in when you’d typically add the garlic.
- This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- If you want a bit more flavor, add your favorite herbs, like Italian seasoning or fresh basil, while cooking!
Equipment Needed
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dinner:
- A large skillet for cooking everything in one pan
- A knife and cutting board to chop your chicken and garlic
- A wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
- A measuring cup and spoons
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use store-bought gnocchi? Absolutely! Store-bought gnocchi works perfectly for this recipe, and it saves you time!
- What if I don’t like spinach? No worries! You can substitute with kale, arugula, or even leave it out altogether.
- How can I make this dish spicier? You can add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a kick!
- Can I use dairy-free cream? Yes! There are many great dairy-free heavy cream alternatives available that would work well here.
- Is this recipe freezable? While it’s best fresh, you can freeze the cooled dish for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy!
Join Me in the Kitchen!
So, are you ready to dive into this cozy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet? I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Don’t forget to share your experience with me, and if you enjoy this recipe, be sure to follow me on Pinterest for more comforting dishes! Happy cooking!
