Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

This creamy chicken gnocchi skillet offers a cozy and impressive dinner all in one pan. Tender chicken cubes get golden brown before being bathed in a luscious sauce made creamy with heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Sundried tomatoes bring a brilliant tang and color while herbs and garlic add depth. The gnocchi cooks right in the skillet, soaking up every bit of the savory sauce, making this both comforting and quick enough for busy weeknights.

I first made this when a friend dropped by unexpectedly. We all ended up lingering around the table because no one wanted the night to end after enjoying such a rich and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts: cut into cubes for even cooking and juicy bites
• Allpurpose flour: used for coating chicken to get a golden crust and thicken the sauce
• Salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder: for balanced seasoning and a touch of spice
• Olive oil: adds gentle fruitiness for a perfect sear, preferably extra virgin for flavor
• Butter: enriches the sauce and browns the chicken and aromatics unsalted gives you seasoning control
• Minced garlic: brings bright, bold flavor—fresh cloves always taste best
• Chicken broth: provides rich, savory body to the sauce low sodium helps manage salt levels
• Heavy cream: makes the sauce silky and thick for luscious texture
• Parmesan cheese: adds a nutty, salty tang freshly grated melts more smoothly
• Dried oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes: enhance herbal brightness and a subtle kick
• Chopped sundried tomatoes: offer tanginess and chew oil packed varieties provide better texture
• Gnocchi: are tender potato dumplings that absorb sauce quickly fresh or shelf stable both work fine

Instructions

Prep the Chicken:

Slice the chicken breasts into evenly sized cubes and pat them dry using paper towels. This helps the chicken brown beautifully in the pan instead of steaming.

Dredge the Chicken:

In a bowl, mix allpurpose flour with salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Toss the chicken cubes in this seasoning mix until each piece is well coated. This coating creates a flavorful crust and also thickens the sauce later.

Sear the Chicken:

Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over mediumhigh heat. Once the butter melts and starts to foam, arrange the chicken cubes in a single layer. Cook without moving for about four to five minutes per side, until all sides develop a golden brown crust. Check one piece to ensure the inside is fully cooked through.

Set the Chicken Aside:

Transfer the browned chicken onto a plate and loosely cover to keep warm. Letting the juices settle keeps the pieces moist for later.

Build the Sauce:

Reduce the heat to medium. Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for around one minute until fragrant but not burnt. Slowly pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring gently while scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the pan. Sprinkle in grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts, resulting in a smooth, velvety sauce.

Add Flavor Boosts:

Stir in chopped sundried tomatoes, red pepper flakes, dried oregano, and thyme. Allow the mixture to simmer gently over mediumlow heat for several minutes so all the flavors meld beautifully.

Cook the Gnocchi:

Add the gnocchi directly into the skillet with the sauce. Cover the pan and cook for two to three minutes, stirring occasionally. The gnocchi will puff up slightly and become tender as they soak in the sauce’s flavor.

Finish the Dish:

Return the seared chicken to the skillet. Gently stir everything together and let it warm through for a couple more minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or pepper if needed.

Serve:

Spoon creamy chicken and gnocchi into bowls or plates. Add extra grated Parmesan or a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired for a finishing touch.

Every single time I make this, I think back to quiet evenings at home. My dad had a habit of sneaking bites while I cooked and always insisted I save extra chicken just for his “taste testing.” That little family tradition keeps me making this dish often.

Storage Tips

Allow leftovers to cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to three days. When reheating, add a small splash of broth or cream and warm gently on the stove to loosen the sauce and maintain its creamy texture. The gnocchi might absorb some liquid but flavors will intensify overnight.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a richer flavor, try boneless skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts. Use gluten free flour or cornstarch as an alternative coating for those avoiding gluten. Add fresh spinach or kale just before serving for a boost of greens. If you don’t have sundried tomatoes, a spoonful of tomato paste or a handful of halved fresh cherry tomatoes makes a nice substitute.

Serving Suggestions

This comforting dish holds up well on its own, but pairing with a crisp green salad or simple roasted vegetables balances the richness nicely. Warm crusty bread is fantastic for soaking up every last drop of sauce. A little fresh basil or a hint of lemon zest on top adds brightness and freshness on the plate.

This creamy chicken gnocchi skillet is perfect for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough for guests. Leftovers can taste even better the next day.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

Yes, packaged gnocchi works well and saves time, but homemade gnocchi can provide a lighter, fluffier texture if preferred.

→ What type of chicken is best for this dish?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts offer tender results, though thighs can be used for added juiciness and richer flavor.

→ How do I avoid overcooking the gnocchi?

Add gnocchi near the end, simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until soft and slightly puffed, stirring occasionally.

→ Can the dish be lightened up?

Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, reduce Parmesan, or add extra chicken broth for a lighter sauce.

→ Which vegetables pair well with this skillet?

Spinach, peas, or sautéed mushrooms complement the creamy base without overpowering the flavors.

→ How should leftovers be reheated?

Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce and keep it creamy.