Print

Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe

4.8 from 57 reviews

This Chicken Gnocchi Skillet recipe is a comforting, creamy one-pan meal featuring tender pan-seared chicken thighs, pillowy potato gnocchi, fresh spinach, and grape tomatoes all enveloped in a luscious parmesan cream sauce. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, this dish combines simple ingredients with rich flavors and comes together quickly on the stovetop.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein and Dairy

  • 1.5 lb. chicken thighs, boneless, skinless
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 3/4 cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated

Produce

  • 1 pint grape tomatoes, halved
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 5 oz. spinach
  • 1/2 cup onion, diced

Pantry

  • 1 lb. potato gnocchi
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 cup chicken broth, divided
  • 2 tbsp all purpose flour

Instructions

  1. Cook the gnocchi: Prepare the potato gnocchi according to the package instructions, typically boiling until they float to the surface. Drain well and set aside for later use in the skillet.
  2. Pan-sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Season chicken thighs evenly with salt, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Place them smooth side down in the hot skillet and sear for 4-5 minutes per side until nicely browned and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set on a plate.
  3. Sauté vegetables and build flavor: Add a splash of chicken broth to the skillet and scrape the bottom to lift up any browned bits. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in butter and let it melt, then add grape tomatoes, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt. Cook for 3 minutes until tomatoes soften. Finally, add spinach and stir until wilted.
  4. Make the creamy sauce: In a separate bowl or measuring cup, combine remaining chicken broth with heavy cream and flour, whisking until smooth. Pour this mixture into the skillet and bring to a gentle simmer. Slowly whisk in parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy and smooth. Allow it to simmer for 2 minutes to thicken slightly.
  5. Combine and finish: Fold the cooked gnocchi into the creamy sauce to coat evenly. Nestle the seared chicken thighs back into the skillet and let everything simmer together for 1-2 minutes to marry the flavors. Garnish with additional salt, pepper, and more parmesan cheese as desired before serving.

Notes

  • Calories are estimated per serving and may vary based on exact ingredient brands and portions.
  • For a lighter option, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream or use chicken breast instead of thighs.
  • Gnocchi can be cooked slightly ahead of time but is best added fresh to the creamy sauce to avoid sogginess.
  • Use freshly grated parmesan cheese for the best flavor and smoothest sauce texture.
  • You can add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick if desired.

Keywords: chicken gnocchi skillet, creamy chicken gnocchi, one-pan dinner, gnocchi recipes, easy chicken skillet, comfort food, quick dinner