Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

This garlic chicken gnocchi skillet transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy meal in just 30 minutes. The pillowy gnocchi soaks up the creamy garlic sauce while tender chicken thighs add hearty protein. I created this one-pan wonder during a particularly busy week and now it's my go-to solution when I need something delicious without the cleanup.

I first made this dish when my sister unexpectedly stayed for dinner and needed something impressive fast. The way everyone scraped their plates clean told me this recipe needed to become a regular in my rotation.

Ingredients

• Potato gnocchi: providing a pillowy texture that soaks up the delicious sauce
• Boneless skinless chicken thighs: offering juicier flavor than breast meat
• Paprika: adding subtle smokiness and beautiful color to the chicken
• Butter: creating richness and helping brown the chicken beautifully
• Yellow onion: providing aromatic sweetness when caramelized
• White mushrooms: adding earthy depth and meaty texture
• Minced garlic: forming the flavor foundation of the dish
• Italian seasoning: bringing herbal notes without needing multiple dried herbs
• Chicken broth: forming the base of the sauce while adding savory depth
• Half and half: creating creaminess without being too heavy
• Mozzarella cheese: providing stretchy goodness and thickening the sauce
• Fresh spinach: adding color vitamins and a slight earthiness
• Red pepper flakes: bringing optional heat to finish the dish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Season the Chicken:

Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels before generously seasoning with salt pepper and paprika on both sides. Properly seasoned chicken creates a flavor foundation for the entire dish.

Brown the Chicken:

Melt butter in a large skillet over medium high heat until bubbling but not burning. Place chicken thighs presentation side down and cook undisturbed for 5 7 minutes until deeply golden. Flip and cook another 5 minutes. The caramelization here creates incredible flavor.

Sauté the Aromatics:

In the same pan with all those flavorful chicken bits add the remaining butter garlic and Italian seasoning. Toast for 30 seconds until fragrant then add onions and mushrooms. Cook for 3 4 minutes stirring occasionally until onions become translucent and mushrooms release their moisture.

Create the Sauce:

Pour in chicken broth while scraping the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits. Let it come to a simmer then slowly add half and half while whisking constantly to prevent curdling. Sprinkle in mozzarella and continue whisking until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.

Combine Components:

Add the cooked gnocchi and fresh spinach to the sauce stirring gently until the spinach wilts and the gnocchi is well coated. Return the chicken to the pan nestling it into the sauce so it can absorb flavors and rewarm for about 2 minutes.

Finish and Serve:

Taste the sauce adding any additional salt or pepper needed. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for brightness grated parmesan for extra umami and red pepper flakes for heat if desired.

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The Italian seasoning is my secret weapon in this recipe. My grandmother taught me that this simple blend saves time while still providing that authentic Italian flavor profile that makes the dish feel special even on a weeknight.

Make-Ahead Options

This dish reheats beautifully making it perfect for meal planning. Cook the entire recipe let it cool completely then portion into airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating add a splash of chicken broth or cream to revive the sauce as it tends to thicken when chilled. The flavors actually develop nicely overnight making this dish sometimes even better the next day.

Easy Substitutions

If you are looking to modify this recipe there are several easy swaps. Chicken breasts can replace thighs just be careful not to overcook them. For a dairy free version use coconut cream instead of half and half and skip the cheese adding a tablespoon of nutritional yeast for flavor. Gluten free gnocchi works perfectly or substitute with cauliflower gnocchi for a lower carb option. The spinach can be swapped with kale or arugula depending on what you have available.

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Serving Suggestions

While this dish stands perfectly on its own I like to serve it with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon juice and olive oil to cut through the richness. A glass of crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or unoaked Chardonnay makes the perfect pairing. For a more substantial meal crusty garlic bread on the side works wonderfully for soaking up every last bit of the delicious sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for thighs. Adjust the cooking time to avoid overcooking as breasts cook faster.

→ Is the cream sauce gluten-free?

The cream sauce is gluten-free, but ensure the gnocchi you use is certified gluten-free if needed.

→ What can I use instead of mozzarella?

For a substitute, try grated parmesan, provolone, or any mild, melty cheese you prefer.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat on the stovetop.

→ What side dishes pair well with this?

This dish pairs well with a fresh garden salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Thaw and drain it beforehand to avoid excess moisture in the sauce.