Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

This creamy chicken and gnocchi recipe is pure comfort in a bowl when dinner needs to be straightforward rich and filling without a mountain of dishes. Chicken gets golden and juicy while parmesan and heavy cream make everything silky and savory. The addition of sun dried tomatoes brings brightness and a pop of color. It is one pan and one of those quick meals that still feels like a treat on a busy weeknight.

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.

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts sliced into cubes: Boneless skinless for even cooking and juicy pieces

• Flour: Helps the chicken brown and thickens the sauce use all purpose and check for a fine texture

• Salt pepper paprika garlic powder: Essential for seasoning balanced heat and savory depth use fresh spices

• Olive oil: Adds a gentle fruitiness to sear the chicken aim for extra virgin if possible

• Butter: Creates richness and helps brown chicken and aromatics choose unsalted for control

• Minced garlic: Brings bold flavor use fresh garlic cloves for best taste

• Chicken broth: Lends flavor and body opt for 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

• Oregano thyme red pepper flakes: Provide herbal freshness and a gentle kick dry spices work well just check for freshness

• Chopped sun dried tomatoes: For brightness and chew pick oil packed for better texture

• Gnocchi: Tender potato dumplings that cook quickly shelf stable or fresh are both good

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Chicken:

Slice chicken breasts into even cubes and pat them dry for better browning

Dredge the Chicken:

Combine flour salt pepper paprika and garlic powder Toss cubes in this mix to coat thoroughly

Sear the Chicken:

Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium high Once melted and hot lay chicken in a single layer Cook four to five minutes per side until golden Brown both sides well then check a cube for doneness

Set the Chicken Aside:

Transfer cooked chicken to a plate Keep it covered and warm to allow juices to settle

Build the Sauce:

Lower heat to medium Add minced garlic and sauté until aromatic around one minute Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream Stir gently and scrape up any fond from the pan Sprinkle in parmesan cheese until melted and smooth

Add Flavor Boosts:

Stir in chopped sun dried tomatoes red pepper flakes oregano and thyme Mix well and let everything simmer for several minutes so flavors blend together

Cook the Gnocchi:

Pour gnocchi into the sauce Cover skillet and let it cook two to three minutes Stir occasionally until gnocchi is pillowy and hot

Finish the Dish:

Return seared chicken to skillet Stir to combine and let everything heat through Taste and adjust seasoning if needed

Serve:

Ladle creamy chicken gnocchi onto plates or bowls Top with more parmesan or herbs if you wish

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Every time I make this I am reminded of cozy nights at home when my dad would always sneak a piece of chicken before it even hit the bowl He is the reason I always make extra chicken for taste testing as I cook

Storage Tips

Let leftovers cool fully before storing Use an airtight container and refrigerate up to three days When reheating add a splash of broth or cream and gently warm to keep the sauce creamy The gnocchi will absorb some liquid but the flavors deepen overnight

Ingredient Substitutions

Instead of chicken breasts try boneless thighs for richer flavor Use gluten free flour or cornstarch for dredging if needed Spinach or kale can be stirred in with the gnocchi for a boost of greens If you are out of sun dried tomatoes a spoonful of tomato paste or fresh cherry tomatoes tapped in helps too

Serving Suggestions

This dish is filling on its own but a crisp green salad or simple roasted vegetables pair perfectly Warm crusty bread is perfect for mopping up the creamy sauce For a burst of freshness top with basil or a sprinkle of lemon zest

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Cultural and Historical Context

Gnocchi comes from Italy where potatoes were adapted into dumplings centuries ago This recipe takes the heart of that tradition and layers in comforting American flavors like creamy sauce and skillet browned chicken It is a blend of old world texture and new world cosiness

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

Yes, packaged gnocchi works well and saves time, but you can substitute homemade for a fluffier texture if preferred.

→ What type of chicken is best?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts offer tender results, but thighs can be used for extra juiciness and flavor.

→ How can I avoid overcooking the gnocchi?

Add the gnocchi towards the end and simmer just until they’re soft and slightly puffed, about 2-3 minutes.

→ Is it possible to lighten up the dish?

Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and use less Parmesan, or add extra chicken broth for a lighter sauce.

→ What vegetables pair well with this meal?

Spinach, peas, or sautéed mushrooms can be stirred in for added color and nutrition without altering the creamy base.

→ Can leftovers be reheated?

Absolutely—gently reheat in a skillet with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce and maintain a creamy texture.