Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

This creamy chicken gnocchi skillet is a perfect meal when you want something cozy and satisfying without fussing over many pots and pans. The chicken is seared to a golden crust, then simmered in a luscious sauce made from Parmesan and cream, while tender gnocchi soak up all those rich flavors. Sun-dried tomatoes and fresh herbs add brightness and a depth that turns a simple skillet dinner into a comforting treat you’ll want again and again.

I first cooked this when a close friend came over without any warning. Everyone cleaned their bowls and we ended up chatting around the table long after dinner was done. It quickly became a go-to for busy nights that still deserve a little flair.

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts: sliced into cubes for even cooking and juicy pieces
• Flour: to help the chicken brown and thicken the sauce use all-purpose with a fine texture for best results
• Salt pepper paprika and garlic powder: to season each bite with balanced heat and savory depth fresh spices make all the difference
• Olive oil: adds a gentle fruitiness to sear the chicken aim for extra virgin if possible for flavor
• Butter: creates richness and helps brown the chicken and aromatics unsalted gives you better control over seasoning
• Minced garlic: brings bold flavor fresh cloves are always best here
• Chicken broth: lends flavor and body choose low sodium to control salt
• Heavy cream: makes the sauce velvety thick and smooth
• Parmesan cheese: adds a salty nutty tang grate your own for best melting and freshness
• Oregano thyme and red pepper flakes: provide herbal freshness and a gentle kick dry spices work well as long as they are fresh
• Chopped sun-dried tomatoes: bring brightness and chew oil packed varieties offer better texture and flavor
• Gnocchi: are tender potato dumplings that cook quickly both shelf-stable and fresh varieties work well

Instructions

Prep the Chicken:

Slice chicken breasts into even cubes and pat them dry to achieve better browning and prevent steaming.

Dredge the Chicken:

In a bowl combine flour salt pepper paprika and garlic powder Toss chicken cubes until they are thoroughly coated in this flavorful mixture.

Sear the Chicken:

Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over mediumhigh heat Once the butter melts and the pan is hot arrange the chicken in a single layer Cook for four to five minutes on each side until golden brown Check a piece for doneness to ensure it is cooked through.

Set the Chicken Aside:

Transfer the browned chicken to a plate Keep it covered and warm so the juices settle and the chicken stays juicy.

Build the Sauce:

Turn the heat down to medium Add minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until aromatic Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream Stir gently and scrape up any flavorful bits stuck to the pan Sprinkle in Parmesan cheese and keep stirring until the sauce is smooth and melted.

Add Flavor Boosts:

Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes red pepper flakes oregano and thyme Mix everything well and simmer for several minutes allowing the flavors to blend deeply together.

Cook the Gnocchi:

Pour the gnocchi into the sauce Cover the skillet and let it cook for two to three minutes Stir occasionally so the gnocchi cook evenly and become pillowy soft.

Finish the Dish:

Return the seared chicken to the skillet Stir gently to combine and let everything warm through Taste and adjust seasoning if it needs a little more salt or pepper.

Serve:

Ladle the creamy chicken gnocchi onto plates or bowls Top with extra Parmesan or herbs if you like for a fresh pop on each serving.

Every time I make this I think about cozy nights at home when my dad would sneak a piece of chicken before dinner was served. He’s the reason I always make extra chicken for taste testing as I cook. The sun-dried tomatoes are my favorite part. Their bright tang cuts through the rich sauce making every bite interesting and fresh.

Storage Tips

Allow leftovers to cool completely before storing to prevent sogginess. Use an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When reheating add a splash of broth or cream and warm gently to keep the sauce silky. The gnocchi will absorb some of the liquid but that only makes the flavors deeper and the texture comforting.

Ingredient Substitutions

Try boneless skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for richer flavor and a slightly more tender texture. If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour or cornstarch for dredging. Spinach or kale can be stirred in with the gnocchi for an extra boost of greens and nutrients. No sun-dried tomatoes? A spoonful of tomato paste or fresh cherry tomatoes chopped up also works well to brighten the dish.

Serving Suggestions

This meal stands well on its own but a crisp green salad or simply roasted vegetables make great companions. Warm crusty bread is perfect for mopping up every drop of the luscious sauce. For a fresh twist try topping servings with chopped basil or a sprinkle of lemon zest it lightens the dish beautifully.

This creamy chicken gnocchi is cozy and easy to make yet feels special. Serve with crusty bread and fresh herbs for the best experience.

Common Questions About the Recipe

→ Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

Yes, store-bought gnocchi works well and speeds up preparation, though homemade gnocchi offers a fluffier texture if preferred.

→ What cut of chicken works best?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for even cooking and tenderness, but boneless thighs add richer flavor and juiciness.

→ How do I prevent gnocchi from overcooking?

Add gnocchi towards the end of cooking and simmer just 2-3 minutes until soft and slightly puffed for perfect texture.

→ What can lighten the richness of this dish?

Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, reduce Parmesan, or increase chicken broth to create a lighter sauce.

→ Which vegetables pair well with this skillet?

Spinach, peas, or sautéed mushrooms blend nicely without altering the creamy base, adding color and nutrition.

→ How should leftovers be stored and reheated?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or cream to maintain sauce creaminess.