Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

This creamy chicken gnocchi skillet is exactly what you want when a cozy, satisfying dinner needs to come together fast without sacrificing flavor. Juicy cubes of chicken get a beautiful golden sear before being nestled into a rich, velvety sauce filled with Parmesan, cream, and a hint of tang from sundried tomatoes. The gnocchi softens right in the sauce, soaking up every savory note so that each bite feels indulgent and comforting. It’s one pan, less hassle, and pure heartiness in under 40 minutes.

The first time I made this was impromptu when a friend dropped by and everyone loved it so much they asked for seconds and had to grab an extra bowl

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts: cut into cubes bring tenderness and cook evenly
• Allpurpose flour: helps the chicken develop a golden crust and thickens the sauce later on so choose a fine textured flour
• Salt pepper paprika and garlic powder: season the chicken with balanced heat and savory depth and fresh spices make a noticeable difference here
• Olive oil: adds a gentle fruity note that complements the chicken well extra virgin is best if you have it
• Butter: enriches the skillet cooking and boosts browning opt for unsalted so you control the seasoning
• Fresh minced garlic: gives the dish a bold fragrant punch
• Chicken broth: adds body and savory background flavors lower sodium lets you control saltiness
• Heavy cream: transforms the sauce into something silky and indulgent
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: delivers a salty nutty tang and melts smoothly for best results
• Dried oregano thyme and red pepper flakes: lend an herbal brightness with a gentle kick check freshness for best flavor
• Chopped sundried tomatoes (oil packed preferred): contribute tang and chewiness that balance richness
• Gnocchi: those tender potato dumplings cook quickly right in the sauce fresh or shelf stable both work great

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:

Slice the chicken breasts into even cubes and pat them dry thoroughly to encourage better browning. This step ensures your chicken will develop a beautiful crust instead of steaming.

Coat the Chicken:

In a bowl combine the flour seasoning mix with salt pepper paprika and garlic powder. Toss the chicken cubes until they are fully coated. The seasoned flour adds flavor and creates a nice sear crust while thickening the sauce later.

Sear the Chicken:

Heat olive oil and butter over medium high heat in a large skillet. Once hot and melted, place the chicken cubes in a single layer without crowding the pan. Cook 4 to 5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Check a piece for doneness by cutting it open. Avoid moving too much to get a solid crust.

Set the Chicken Aside:

Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and cover it loosely. Keeping it warm lets the juices redistribute which keeps the bites moist and tender.

Build the Sauce:

Turn the heat down to medium then add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about one minute until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring gently to scrape up any browned bits from the pan. Sprinkle in the Parmesan gradually and stir until it melts into a smooth creamy sauce.

Add Flavor Boosts:

Stir in the chopped sundried tomatoes red pepper flakes oregano and thyme. Let the sauce simmer over low heat for a few minutes so the flavors blend and develop complexity.

Cook the Gnocchi:

Add the gnocchi directly into the sauce. Cover the skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The gnocchi will puff up and become tender, soaking up all the tasty sauce.

Finish the Dish:

Return the seared chicken to the skillet with the gnocchi and stir gently to coat everything well. Warm through for a minute or two. Taste at this point and adjust seasoning as needed.

Serve:

Spoon the creamy chicken gnocchi onto plates or bowls. Top with extra Parmesan or herbs if you like and enjoy immediately.

Every time I make this I think about cozy evenings when my dad would sneak chicken pieces during cooking, forcing me to always keep extra just for him to test the flavor

Storage Tips

Allow leftovers to cool completely then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or cream and warm gently to revive the creamy texture since the gnocchi absorbs liquid overnight but the flavors deepen with rest.

Ingredient Substitutions

Try boneless chicken thighs if you want more juicy flavor instead of breasts. Substitute with gluten free flour or cornstarch for coating if needed. Add spinach or kale in with the gnocchi for extra greens. No sundried tomatoes on hand? A spoonful of tomato paste or fresh cherry tomatoes stirred in will add brightness too.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is a complete meal but pairs well with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for color and crunch. Warm crusty bread is excellent for soaking up the luscious sauce. For a fresh lift, grate basil over the top or sprinkle with lemon zest.

Serve this warm for the best texture and comfort. Leftovers improve in flavor after a day but reheat gently to preserve the sauce.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

Yes, packaged gnocchi works well and saves time, but homemade gnocchi can add a fluffier texture if desired.

→ What type of chicken works best?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts offer tender pieces, but thighs provide extra juiciness and richer flavor.

→ How do I avoid overcooking the gnocchi?

Add gnocchi near the end of cooking and simmer just two to three minutes until soft and slightly puffed.

→ Can this dish be lightened?

Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, reduce the Parmesan, or add more broth for a lighter sauce consistency.

→ What vegetables complement this meal?

Spinach, peas, or sautéed mushrooms blend well without overpowering the creamy base.

→ How to reheat leftovers without drying out?

Gently warm in a skillet with a splash of broth or cream to maintain sauce creaminess and texture.