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Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet combines fluffy potato dumplings with juicy chicken chunks in a velvety, garlic-infused sauce. This quick 30-minute meal turns basic ingredients into a fancy dinner that's great for busy nights when you need something impressive without spending hours cooking.
The first time I whipped this up, my home was filled with the most incredible smell of roasted garlic. It's now become what I cook whenever I want to wow someone without being stuck in the kitchen forever.
Key Components
- Potato gnocchi: Grab either shelf-stable or refrigerated ones, they're both great
- Chicken breasts: Slice them the same size so they cook evenly
- Fresh garlic: This is what makes the dish shine, so be generous
- Heavy cream: Gives you that smooth, rich sauce texture
- Parmesan cheese: Grate it yourself for better melting into the sauce
- Good quality olive oil: Makes the chicken get that nice golden color
Step-By-Step Method
- Step 1:
- Slice your chicken into same-sized pieces and set up all your ingredients before you start. Having everything ready makes this quick dish even faster.
- Step 2:
- Get your pan really hot before adding the oil. Cook the chicken pieces without crowding them. Let them sit still to get that nice brown crust.
- Step 3:
- Take the chicken out and toss in the garlic, keep it moving in the pan. The warmth from the pan will bring out the garlic flavor without burning it.
- Step 4:
- Toss the gnocchi straight into your sauce - they'll soak up all the yummy flavors while they cook. Mix them carefully so they stay whole.
- Step 5:
- Add the chicken back once the gnocchi feels soft. Let everything bubble together for a bit so the flavors mix well.
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As a kid, I watched my Italian nonna always handle gnocchi with a light touch. This dish honors her cooking wisdom but makes things much easier for today's busy cooks.
Choosing Your Skillet
A thick-bottomed pan spreads heat evenly and stops your creamy sauce from burning.
Great Side Dishes
Add a simple arugula salad with lemon dressing to cut through the richness of this meal.
Storing Extras
When warming up leftovers, add a splash of cream or stock to bring back the smooth sauce texture.
Make It Your Own
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Throw in some sun-dried tomatoes or fresh spinach for extra pop and nutrients.
This one-pan dinner has become my go-to for turning regular weeknights into something special. It shows how comfort food can be both fancy and simple at the same time.
Common Questions
- → Can I go with a lighter dairy choice?
- Sure, you can swap in half-and-half or regular milk instead of heavy cream.
- → Is there a way to make this without gluten?
- Absolutely, just grab some gluten-free potato dumplings from your local store.
- → Why do I need to scrape the pan bottom?
- Those stuck-on bits pack tons of flavor into your sauce.
- → How can I tell when the dumplings are ready?
- They'll turn soft and tender after about 3-4 minutes of cooking time.
- → Will leftover cooked chicken work?
- Definitely, just toss it in at the end to heat through.