If you’re searching for a weeknight dinner that feels like a big, cozy hug in a bowl, the Creamy Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Recipe is honestly a dream come true. Tender bites of chicken and pillowy gnocchi are nestled in a luxuriously creamy garlic sauce, brightened by baby spinach and salty Parmesan. It’s one of those dishes that somehow tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen, but secretly comes together in just about 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for your family or treating yourself to something special, this recipe is pure comfort — and the ultimate way to bring restaurant-level flavors home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What I love about this Creamy Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Recipe is that every ingredient matters — and there aren’t too many of them! Each one layers in its own magic, from the earthy olive oil to the luscious cream and Parmesan. Gather these simple staples for a seriously satisfying meal:
- Olive Oil: Helps brown the chicken beautifully while lending richness to the base of your sauce.
- Butter: Adds a silky finish and helps to create that signature creamy sauce texture.
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: The heart of the dish, cut into bite-sized pieces for juicy, tender flavor in every forkful.
- Salt and Pepper: Don’t underestimate these — they wake up all the other flavors.
- Garlic: Four whole cloves ensure bold garlicky depth; fresh is best for a real aroma boost.
- Italian Seasoning: Provides that classic herby undertone that makes Italian-inspired comfort food sing.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional): Just a pinch offers a subtle kick if you like a bit of heat.
- Heavy Cream: The star of the show, bringing decadent silkiness to the sauce.
- Chicken Broth: Adds backbone and balances the richness of the cream.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: Melts into the sauce for a nutty, savory finish and a little salty bite.
- Potato Gnocchi: Store-bought or homemade, these tender dumplings soak up all that creamy sauce.
- Baby Spinach: Tosses in some vibrant green, mellows out the creaminess, and adds a pop of freshness.
- Chopped Fresh Parsley (optional): Acts as the perfect final flourish, adding color and a touch of brightness.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Begin by heating both the olive oil and butter in a spacious skillet over medium-high heat. When the mixture shimmers, scatter in your bite-sized pieces of chicken, neatly seasoned with salt and pepper. Let them sizzle for about 5 to 7 minutes, turning as needed, until every piece is golden brown and perfectly cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside — don’t wipe out the pan, because those flavorful browned bits are about to take your sauce to the next level.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Spices
Reduce your skillet heat to medium. Add the minced garlic straight into the golden remnants of the pan, sautéing for about 1 minute. The fragrance will be irresistible! Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and those red pepper flakes if you’re up for a little spice. Stir and let everything mingle for a few seconds until the kitchen is filled with the scent of savory herbs and garlic.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce
Now, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir, scraping up all those caramelized bits from the bottom because that’s pure flavor! Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer — not a boil — and then add the grated Parmesan. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce turns glossy and smooth. This is the rich heart of your Creamy Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Recipe, and it only takes a couple of minutes.
Step 4: Cook the Gnocchi
Add the gnocchi (straight from the package, no boiling required!) directly into that dreamy sauce. Simmer for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Watch as the gnocchi soften and swell, soaking up every drop of that luscious, garlicky cream. It’s one-pan magic, and you’ll see the sauce thicken beautifully as the gnocchi cook through.
Step 5: Finish with Chicken and Spinach
Return the seared chicken — and all its delicious juices — to the skillet. Add the baby spinach, stirring just until the greens are wilted and vibrant. Give the sauce a final taste for salt and pepper. Your Creamy Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Recipe is ready to serve, brimming with color and irresistible aroma!
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Recipe
Garnishes
Just before bringing your skillet to the table, shower the top with freshly chopped parsley. This simple, fresh garnish brightens up the dish and creates a vibrant contrast against the creamy sauce. A few extra shavings of Parmesan never hurt either, especially for that high-end restaurant touch!
Side Dishes
Although the Creamy Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Recipe is a one-pan wonder, it pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or garlicky roasted broccoli for extra veg. And if you’re a fan of sopping up sauce, serve it alongside warm, crusty bread — trust me, you won’t want to waste a drop of that creamy goodness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy dinner party, serve the creamy chicken and gnocchi in individual shallow bowls and top each with parsley and Parmesan. You can also turn this into a baked casserole: sprinkle more cheese over the top and broil for a few minutes before serving. For a fun twist, try presenting in mini cast iron skillets for a rustic, crowd-pleasing look.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (lucky you!), store the cooled Creamy Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 3 days, and the flavors actually deepen overnight, making for an even more delicious second round.
Freezing
You can freeze portions of the gnocchi and chicken mixture for up to a month, though the cream sauce might separate a bit upon thawing. To maintain the best texture, let the dish cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
For best results, gently reheat individual portions of the Creamy Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Recipe on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen up the sauce. If using the microwave, stir halfway through to ensure even warming and prevent drying out.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken breasts?
Absolutely, rotisserie chicken is a wonderful shortcut. Just shred or chop the meat and add it after the sauce is done, with the spinach, to warm through. This makes for an even quicker version of the Creamy Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Recipe.
Is there a good substitute for heavy cream?
If you’d like to lighten things up, try using half-and-half or a mixture of milk and a little extra Parmesan. The sauce won’t be quite as rich, but will still cling beautifully to the gnocchi and chicken.
Can I make this recipe with gluten-free gnocchi?
Definitely! There are many delicious gluten-free gnocchi options at most grocery stores. Just swap them in to make your Creamy Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Recipe entirely gluten-free without sacrificing flavor or texture.
What vegetables can I add for more nutrition?
Mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or even chopped broccoli can be sautéed along with the garlic for extra color and nutrients. Let your crisper drawer inspire your twist on this comforting classic!
How can I make this dish ahead for entertaining?
You can cook the chicken and make the sauce a few hours ahead, then reheat and add the gnocchi and spinach just before serving so everything stays perfectly textured. It’s a low-stress option for feeding a hungry crowd!
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving pure comfort with minimal fuss, the Creamy Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Recipe is your answer. Each bite is as satisfying as the last, with flavors that feel both indulgent and homey. Give this one a try — it just might become your go-to favorite for busy nights or company-worthy meals!
Print
Creamy Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the creamy goodness of this flavorful Creamy Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi recipe. Tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a rich garlic cream sauce come together in a delightful one-pan meal that’s perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 (16 oz) package potato gnocchi
- 2 cups baby spinach
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
For the Chicken:
For the Sauce:
For the Gnocchi:
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet. Season chicken, cook until golden, and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: Sauté garlic, add seasonings, cream, and broth. Stir in Parmesan until smooth.
- Cook the Gnocchi: Add gnocchi to the sauce, simmer until soft. Add chicken and spinach.
- Serve: Adjust seasoning and garnish with parsley. Enjoy!
Notes
- You can use store-bought or homemade gnocchi for this recipe.
- Enhance the dish with mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 530mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
