Savory Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Skillet
This savory garlic chicken and gnocchi skillet is the kind of weeknight dinner dreams are made of. It’s a one-pan wonder that brings crispy pan-seared chicken together with soft pillowy gnocchi and a garlic cream sauce that hugs every bite. The aroma alone is enough to bring everyone to the kitchen table before you even call for dinner.
It feels indulgent but comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings or when you want to impress without fuss. The golden sear on the chicken adds richness, while the gnocchi soaks up all the buttery garlic flavor. Whether you’re cooking for family or treating yourself, this skillet brings cozy comfort with a touch of elegance.
Why You’ll Love This Savory Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Skillet
This dish is pure comfort food made easy. It’s rich but not heavy, flavorful without being complicated, and it balances texture beautifully. You’ll love that it’s a complete meal in one pan — protein, carbs, and sauce all working together. Plus, cleanup is a breeze.
Can I Use Store-Bought Gnocchi or Should I Make My Own?
Store-bought gnocchi works perfectly for this recipe. It cooks quickly and holds its shape in the skillet. If you want to make homemade gnocchi, go for it — but the pre-packaged kind is a fantastic shortcut without sacrificing quality.
Ingredients for the Savory Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Skillet
The ingredients in this dish all play a part in building layers of flavor. From the garlic to the creamy sauce and tender gnocchi, every item counts.
- Chicken thighs or breasts
- Potato gnocchi
- Fresh garlic
- Chicken broth
- Heavy cream
- Parmesan cheese
- Olive oil
- Butter
- Salt and black pepper
- Parsley or basil for garnish

How To Make the Savory Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Skillet
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Season your chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken until golden on both sides and cooked through. Set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In the same skillet, lower the heat and melt butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Pour in chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the pan. Stir in heavy cream and parmesan, letting it simmer gently.
Step 4: Cook the Gnocchi
Add the gnocchi directly into the sauce. Cover and let simmer for about 5 minutes until the gnocchi is tender and the sauce thickens.
Step 5: Finish the Dish
Return the chicken to the skillet. Spoon sauce over the top and garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
How to Serve and Store Your Skillet Dish
This savory garlic chicken and gnocchi skillet serves four people generously. It’s a satisfying standalone dish, but it pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce.
What to Serve With Savory Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Skillet?
Crisp Green Salad
A simple arugula or spinach salad with lemon vinaigrette adds a fresh contrast.
Roasted Broccoli
Oven-roasted broccoli brings a nice crunch and balances the creaminess of the sauce.
Garlic Bread
Because more garlic is always a good idea.
Grilled Asparagus
Its earthiness complements the richness of the skillet beautifully.
Sauteed Mushrooms
For an extra savory element, mushrooms are a welcome pairing.
Sparkling Water or White Wine
For a light and refreshing drink to round out the meal.
Apple Slaw
A cool, tangy apple slaw adds brightness and texture.
Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?
If this skillet meal hits the spot, you’ll definitely want to try these too:
- Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Parmesan Linguine
- Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs
- Easy One Pan Mozzarella Chicken
- Crispy Buttered Ranch Chicken
- Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes
Save This Recipe For Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it anytime.
Did you use chicken thighs or breasts? Add a splash of white wine? I’d love to hear how you made it yours. Let’s swap ideas and make cooking a little more fun together.
Explore more comforting, flavor-packed dinners over on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest — your go-to spot for delicious weeknight wins.
Conclusion
This savory garlic chicken and gnocchi skillet is the kind of meal that checks all the boxes: quick, cozy, satisfying, and deliciously simple. It doesn’t take much to make it taste like something special. One skillet, a few staple ingredients, and a little time at the stove are all you need to whip up this comforting dinner favorite.

Savory Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Skillet
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
This savory garlic chicken and gnocchi skillet is a one-pan dinner bursting with buttery garlic flavor, tender chicken, and soft gnocchi in a creamy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this easy skillet meal delivers comfort and elegance in just 30 minutes. Ideal chicken gnocchi skillet recipe for simple dinners or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
2 large chicken breasts or 4 chicken thighs
1 package potato gnocchi
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions
1. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sear the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
3. Lower the heat and melt butter in the same skillet. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan, then let it simmer gently.
6. Add the gnocchi to the skillet, cover, and simmer for 5 minutes until tender and the sauce thickens.
7. Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over the top, and garnish with fresh herbs. Serve warm.
Notes
Use store-bought gnocchi to save time without compromising flavor.
For extra depth, add a splash of dry white wine to the sauce.
Reheat leftovers with a bit of broth or cream to maintain the sauce’s texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 130mg


