If you are craving a dish that wraps comfort and flavor into one beautiful skillet, this Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi Skillet Recipe is about to become your new go-to favorite. Imagine tender, well-seasoned chicken thighs nestled among pillowy gnocchi, all coated in a luscious, velvety cream sauce enriched with fresh spinach and Parmesan. This dish is not only a feast for your taste buds but also a quick and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights or any time you want a cozy, home-cooked dinner without fussing over complicated steps.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this recipe is a breeze thanks to the straightforward list of ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, from the juicy chicken thighs that bring hearty richness, to the aromatic garlic and onion that form the savory base, all the way to the creamy finish with butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan. Let’s dive into these essentials that make every bite memorable.
- 1.25 lbs chicken thighs: These juicy, flavorful cuts stay tender and complement the creamy sauce perfectly.
- 1 Tbsp Italian Seasoning: A blend that infuses classic Mediterranean herbs to elevate the chicken’s taste.
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness that deepens the flavor profile without overpowering.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances every ingredient and balances the richness.
- 1/4 tsp pepper: For just the right hint of heat and depth.
- 2 Tbsp cooking oil: Needed for browning the chicken and developing that golden crust.
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced: Brings sweetness and texture that softens as it cooks.
- 2 garlic cloves: Adds aromatic punch and warmth that makes the sauce irresistible.
- 2 Tbsp salted butter, divided: Used both for cooking and enriching the sauce with creamy goodness.
- 1 lb potato gnocchi (dry): Light, pillowy dumplings that soak up all the delicious flavors.
- 2 cups fresh spinach: Adds a fresh, vibrant pop of green and a boost of nutrients.
- 1 cup vegetable broth: Keeps the dish moist while enhancing savory complexity.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: The star ingredient for that decadent, creamy texture everyone loves.
- 1/4 cup Parmesan: Melts into the sauce, lending nutty richness and a luxurious finish.
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Season and Brown the Chicken
Start by dicing the chicken thighs into generous two-inch pieces. Toss them with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This seasoning mix jumpstarts the flavor journey of your dish. Heat your skillet over medium heat, add the cooking oil, and once it’s hot and shimmering, add the chicken pieces. Let them cook undisturbed for about 3 minutes until they develop that beautiful golden-brown crust. Flip and brown the other side, about 3 minutes more. Once cooked through, remove the chicken but leave the flavorful fat in the pan—it will form the base for your next steps.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
With the chicken out, toss diced onion and minced garlic into the skillet. Sauté until the onions soften and turn translucent, and the garlic releases its fragrant aroma—usually around 2 minutes. This creates a savory foundation that will infuse every bite of your dish with warm, comforting flavors.
Step 3: Brown the Gnocchi
Next, add your dry potato gnocchi along with one tablespoon of salted butter to the skillet. Give them a quick toss and let them brown for about 2 minutes. This process adds light crispness to the gnocchi, creating a delightful contrast with their usual pillowy texture once the sauce is added.
Step 4: Wilt Spinach and Hydrate Gnocchi
Pour in fresh spinach and vegetable broth, then cover the skillet. The spinach wilts quickly, and the broth helps the gnocchi finish cooking by absorbing moisture. After 1 to 2 minutes, your greens should be tender and your gnocchi perfectly hydrated.
Step 5: Create the Cream Sauce
Reduce the heat slightly and stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter and your half cup of heavy cream. Keep the pan warm and stir until the butter melts and the cream starts steaming hot, but avoid boiling. This silky combination is the heart of your creamy sauce.
Step 6: Melt in the Parmesan
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce, transforming it into a lush, velvety coating that clings to every piece of chicken and gnocchi.
Step 7: Return Chicken and Combine
Finally, add the browned chicken back into the skillet. Gently stir to combine everything, letting the chicken pieces absorb the indulgent sauce and the flavors meld beautifully. If you like, garnish with a sprinkle of parsley for a fresh, bright finish.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil works wonders to brighten this dish, adding a fresh note that cuts through the richness. You could also toss in a few chili flakes if you fancy a touch of heat to elevate the experience.
Side Dishes
This skillet recipe stands well on its own as a hearty meal but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad to bring a refreshing balance. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette also makes a perfect companion, great for soaking up the extra creamy sauce left on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special touch, serve this Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi Skillet Recipe right in the pan it’s cooked in, letting everyone dive in family-style. Alternatively, plate it over a bed of arugula or roasted veggies to add even more color and texture, turning this rustic meal into an elegant feast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the gnocchi may soak up some sauce over time, so add a splash of broth or cream while reheating to restore its creamy consistency.
Freezing
While this dish freezes well, the texture of the gnocchi can change slightly after thawing. If you want to freeze, portion the skillet into airtight containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers slowly over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the sauce from breaking. Add a little vegetable broth or cream if the mixture feels too thick. This way, you’ll bring back that luscious, creamy texture that makes this recipe so irresistible.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breast works fine if you prefer a leaner cut, but keep an eye on it as breast meat can dry out more easily. Cooking just until done will keep it tender and juicy.
Do I need to boil the gnocchi before cooking?
Nope! This recipe calls for dry gnocchi which will cook and hydrate directly in the skillet with the broth and spinach, making it super simple and saving you an extra pot to clean.
Can I substitute the heavy cream with something lighter?
Yes, you can swap heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version, though the sauce may be less thick and creamy. Adding a little cornstarch slurry can help thicken the sauce if desired.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Definitely! Replace the butter with dairy-free margarine or oil, use coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative, and swap Parmesan for a vegan cheese substitute or nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor.
What sides would complement this skillet dish?
A fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or some crusty bread make great accompaniments. A crisp wine or sparkling water with lemon can also refresh the palate after each indulgent bite.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi Skillet Recipe is a wonderful example of how simple ingredients, when combined thoughtfully, can create something truly comforting and delicious. It’s the kind of dish that invites you to slow down and savor every bite, whether you’re feeding a family or treating yourself. Trust me, once you try it, it will swiftly become a cherished recipe in your kitchen rotation.
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Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi Skillet Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi is a comforting and hearty skillet dish featuring tender seasoned chicken thighs, golden browned gnocchi, and fresh spinach all enveloped in a rich, velvety cream and Parmesan sauce. It’s a perfect weeknight meal ready in just 25 minutes that combines simple ingredients for a flavorful, home-cooked dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1.25 lbs chicken thighs (4 to 5 thighs), diced into 2-inch pieces
- 1 Tbsp Italian Seasoning
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
- 2 Tbsp cooking oil
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups fresh spinach
Dairy and Gnocchi
- 2 Tbsp salted butter, divided
- 1 lb potato gnocchi (dry)
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Dice the chicken thighs into 2-inch pieces. In a bowl, combine the chicken with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, mixing until well coated.
- Brown the Chicken: Heat a large, deep skillet over medium heat and add the cooking oil. Once shimmering, add the chicken pieces without stirring and cook until well browned on one side, about 3 minutes. Stir and continue browning the other side for another 3 minutes. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until onions soften and garlic becomes fragrant, approximately 2 minutes.
- Cook Gnocchi: Add the dry potato gnocchi along with 1 tablespoon of salted butter to the skillet. Brown the gnocchi for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Wilt Spinach and Hydrate Gnocchi: Add the fresh spinach and vegetable broth to the skillet. Cover the pan and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the spinach has wilted and the gnocchi has absorbed some moisture.
- Add Cream and Butter: Stir in the heavy cream and the remaining 1 tablespoon of salted butter. Mix until the butter melts and the cream is hot and steaming, but not boiling.
- Create the Sauce: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the sauce, creating a velvety texture.
- Combine Chicken and Serve: Return the browned chicken pieces to the skillet and gently fold them into the creamy gnocchi mixture. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve immediately.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken breasts if preferred, but thighs stay juicier.
- If you can’t find dry gnocchi, fresh gnocchi works too; adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Vegetable broth can be replaced with chicken broth for extra flavor.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, though sauce will be less rich.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or extra Parmesan for added flavor and presentation.
- Prep Time: 8 minutes
- Cook Time: 17 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
