Luscious Garlic Chicken Gnocchi

Welcome to the ultimate one-pan wonder that combines irresistible flavors with minimal effort: Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi. This beloved dish brings together tender, juicy chicken and soft, pillowy potato gnocchi, all swimming in a rich, velvety sauce infused with aromatic garlic, fresh thyme, and savory Parmesan cheese. It’s the quintessential comfort food, perfect for a cozy weeknight meal or an elegant dinner party.

Prepare to fall in love with a dish that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat. This Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Imagine sinking your fork into perfectly cooked chicken and delicate gnocchi, each bite enveloped in a luscious, savory sauce. It’s a dish that promises to soothe your soul and satisfy your deepest cravings for truly delicious comfort food.

Forget the endless piles of dishes often associated with gourmet meals. This incredible chicken gnocchi recipe is designed for ease, coming together beautifully in just one pan. In about 30 minutes, you can transform simple ingredients into a show-stopping meal that tastes like it took hours to prepare. So, whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, get ready to add this amazing dish to your culinary repertoire!

Contents

Why You’ll Absolutely Love This Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi

This isn’t just another dinner recipe; it’s a culinary hug in a bowl, crafted for maximum flavor and minimum fuss. Here’s why this Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi will become a staple in your home:

Unrivaled Comfort: There’s something undeniably comforting about soft, pillowy gnocchi immersed in a rich, creamy sauce. Each spoonful offers a harmonious blend of textures and tastes, making it the perfect antidote to a long day.
Effortless One-Pan Cooking: Say goodbye to mountains of pots and pans! This entire dish is prepared in a single skillet, simplifying both the cooking process and the cleanup. It’s ideal for busy weeknights when you crave a homemade meal without the hassle.
Speedy Preparation: From start to finish, this meal can be on your table in roughly 30 minutes. This makes it an excellent choice for those evenings when time is of the essence but you still want to enjoy a delicious, wholesome dinner.
Versatile & Crowd-Pleasing: While simple enough for a family dinner, this elegant dish is also sophisticated enough to impress guests or create a special date night at home. Its universally appealing flavors ensure everyone at the table will ask for seconds.
Rich & Dynamic Flavors: The combination of succulent chicken, aromatic garlic, fresh thyme, and salty Parmesan cheese creates a depth of flavor that is truly irresistible. The creamy sauce perfectly coats every ingredient, ensuring a flavorful experience with every bite.
Customizable: Easily adapt this recipe to your preferences. Swap chicken thighs for breasts, add your favorite vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, or experiment with different herbs to make it uniquely yours.

Indulge in the simplicity and deliciousness of this Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi, and discover a new favorite comfort food that will delight your senses and warm your heart.

Essential Ingredients for Your Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi

Crafting this incredible dish begins with a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need to create this comforting one-pan meal:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: We recommend using chicken thighs for their rich flavor and ability to remain incredibly juicy and tender throughout the cooking process.
All-Purpose Flour: Essential for lightly coating the chicken, creating a beautiful golden-brown crust and helping to thicken the sauce slightly.
Salt and Pepper: Fundamental seasonings to enhance the natural flavors of the chicken and the sauce.
Paprika: Adds a subtle warmth and a lovely reddish hue to the chicken coating.
Olive Oil: Used for searing the chicken to perfection, locking in moisture and flavor.
Butter: Contributes to the rich, smooth texture and irresistible flavor of the creamy sauce.
Shallots: Finely chopped shallots offer a delicate, sweet onion flavor that is milder than regular onions, providing an excellent base for the sauce.
Garlic: The star of the show! Both smashed and finely minced garlic cloves are used to infuse the sauce with deep, aromatic garlic flavor.
White Cooking Wine: Helps deglaze the pan, unlocking all the savory brown bits (fond) from the bottom and adding a layer of sophisticated flavor.
Low-Sodium Chicken Stock: The primary liquid component for our creamy sauce, ensuring a rich and savory base without excessive saltiness.
Heavy Cream: The secret to achieving that luxurious, velvety texture that makes this gnocchi dish so comforting and satisfying.
Fresh Thyme Leaves: Fragrant and earthy, fresh thyme adds a beautiful herbaceous note that complements the garlic and cream perfectly.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: Stirred into the sauce, Parmesan adds a salty, nutty, and umami depth, contributing to its creamy consistency and irresistible taste.
Mini Potato Gnocchi: Shelf-stable mini potato gnocchi is fantastic for this recipe, cooking directly in the sauce. Regular-sized potato gnocchi can also be used.
Fresh Parsley: An optional garnish that adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous finish to the dish.

Ingredient Insights & Smart Substitutions

Choosing the right ingredients can elevate your Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi. Here are some tips and alternative options:

Chicken: While boneless, skinless chicken thighs are our top recommendation for their inherent juiciness and flavor, boneless, skinless chicken breasts can absolutely be used. If opting for breasts, be mindful that they cook faster, so adjust cooking times to avoid over-drying. Cut them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and to ensure every forkful contains a delicious mix of chicken and gnocchi.
Gnocchi: We love shelf-stable mini potato gnocchi for its delicate size and tender texture. If mini gnocchi isn’t available, standard potato gnocchi works just as well. Remember, the gnocchi cooks directly in the sauce, absorbing all the wonderful flavors, so no pre-boiling is necessary.
Aromatics: The combination of shallots and garlic provides a nuanced depth to the sauce. If shallots are hard to find, a small amount of finely diced yellow onion can be used as a substitute, though shallots offer a sweeter, milder flavor.
Herbs: Fresh thyme is key to the aromatic profile of this dish. If fresh thyme isn’t accessible, you can use about 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme, but fresh is always preferred for its vibrant flavor.
Wine: White cooking wine adds a touch of acidity and complexity to the sauce. If you prefer not to use alcohol, simply substitute with an equal amount of additional low-sodium chicken stock, perhaps with a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

Step-By-Step Instructions to Craft Your Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi

Follow these detailed steps to create a truly unforgettable one-pan Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi. Each stage is designed for ease and maximum flavor development.

Step 1: Prepare and Sear the Chicken

Begin by patting your boneless, skinless chicken thighs dry with paper towels. In a shallow bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, pepper, and paprika. Dredge each chicken thigh in this seasoned flour, ensuring both sides are evenly coated. Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, deep skillet (preferably cast iron or a heavy-bottomed pan) over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, carefully add the coated chicken thighs to the hot skillet. Cook for approximately 8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove the cooked chicken from the pan and transfer it to a plate, setting it aside. If you plan to cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces, now is a good time to do so.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Deglaze the Pan

Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet, allowing it to melt. Once melted, add the finely chopped shallots and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are softened and translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Next, add both the smashed and minced garlic cloves to the pan and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. Pour in the 1/4 cup of white cooking wine. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to scrape up any delicious brown bits (fond) from the bottom of the pan – this step, called deglazing, adds immense flavor to your sauce. Continue to cook until the wine has almost completely evaporated, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Build the Creamy Sauce Base

Stir in 1 1/2 cups of the low-sodium chicken stock and the fresh thyme leaves. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for a few minutes until it is heated through. Then, gradually stir in 1 cup of heavy cream, mixing until all ingredients are well combined and the sauce starts to look smooth and luscious. Maintain a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 4: Cook the Gnocchi to Perfection

Add the 1 lb of uncooked mini potato gnocchi directly into the simmering sauce. Stir gently to ensure the gnocchi is fully submerged and coated. Continue to cook, uncovered, for 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. The gnocchi will absorb the liquid and soften, and the sauce will naturally thicken as it cooks. Test a piece of gnocchi to ensure it is tender and cooked through.

Step 5: Finish the Sauce and Combine with Chicken

Once the gnocchi is tender and the sauce has thickened to your liking, stir in the 1/3 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Slowly add the remaining 3/4 cup of low-sodium chicken stock, little by little, until you achieve your desired sauce consistency – whether you prefer it slightly thinner or very rich. I typically use the entire 3/4 cup for a perfect balance. Mix until the sauce is smooth and homogeneous. Finally, add the cooked chicken (either whole or cut into bite-sized pieces) back into the skillet, stirring gently to combine and heat through for just a minute or two. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired, and serve immediately.

Expert Tips for a Flawless Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi

Achieving the perfect Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi is simple with these additional tips and insights:

Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When searing the chicken, work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the skillet. Overcrowding can lower the pan temperature, steaming the chicken instead of searing it, which prevents a golden-brown crust from forming.
Deglaze Thoroughly: The brown bits (fond) left at the bottom of the pan after searing the chicken and sautéing the aromatics are packed with flavor. Ensure you scrape them up thoroughly with your white wine or chicken stock to enrich your sauce.
Gnocchi Type Matters: This recipe uses shelf-stable potato gnocchi, which is designed to cook directly in the sauce. If you use fresh gnocchi (often found in the refrigerated section), it may cook faster. Frozen gnocchi will need slightly longer cooking time. Always check for tenderness.
Sauce Consistency: The amount of chicken stock added at the end allows you to adjust the sauce to your preferred thickness. Add it slowly and mix well, stopping when you reach your ideal consistency. Remember, the sauce will thicken slightly as it cools.
Fresh Herbs are Best: While dried thyme can be used in a pinch, fresh thyme truly elevates the flavor of this dish. Its vibrant aroma and taste are unparalleled.
Taste and Adjust: Always taste your sauce before the final step and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want a little more salt, pepper, or even a tiny pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
Cut Chicken to Your Liking: I prefer cutting the cooked chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces before adding them back to the sauce, ensuring chicken in every mouthful. However, you can certainly leave the chicken thighs whole if that’s your preference.

Serving Suggestions for Your Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi

This rich and hearty Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a few simple additions to create a more rounded dining experience:

Crisp Green Salad: A light, refreshing side salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers a lovely contrast to the richness of the gnocchi.
Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up every last drop of that incredible creamy garlic sauce. A baguette or ciabatta works wonderfully.
Steamed Vegetables: A side of steamed green beans, asparagus, or broccoli can add freshness and additional nutrients.
White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a crisp Pinot Grigio complements the creamy flavors without overpowering them.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi is just as delicious the next day! Here’s how to store and reheat it:

Storage: Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: For best results, reheat individual portions in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of chicken stock or milk to loosen the sauce as it heats up, stirring gently until warmed through. You can also microwave it, but the skillet method helps maintain the texture of the gnocchi and sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Got questions? We’ve got answers to help you master this Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi recipe!

Q: Can I use different cuts of chicken?
A: Yes, boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a good alternative. Keep in mind they cook faster and can dry out more easily than thighs, so monitor their internal temperature carefully (165°F / 74°C). Cutting them into smaller pieces can help them cook more evenly with the gnocchi.

Q: Do I need to boil the gnocchi separately?
A: No, absolutely not! One of the beauties of this recipe is that the shelf-stable potato gnocchi cooks directly in the creamy sauce, absorbing all the wonderful flavors and contributing to the sauce’s thickening.

Q: What if I don’t have white cooking wine?
A: You can substitute the white cooking wine with an equal amount of low-sodium chicken stock. If you want to add a touch of acidity, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end can brighten the flavors.

Q: Can I add vegetables to this dish?
A: Absolutely! This recipe is very versatile. You can stir in fresh spinach or baby kale during the last few minutes of cooking, or sauté mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes with the shallots for added flavor and nutrition.

Q: How can I make the sauce thicker or thinner?
A: To thicken the sauce, you can let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes at the end. To thin it out, simply add a little more chicken stock or heavy cream until it reaches your desired consistency.

Q: Is this dish freezer-friendly?
A: While technically you can freeze it, the texture of the gnocchi and the cream sauce may change slightly upon thawing and reheating, becoming a bit mushier or separating. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days from the refrigerator.

More Delicious Gnocchi Recipes to Explore

If you’re a gnocchi enthusiast, you’ll love these other creative and delicious ways to enjoy this delightful potato pasta:

Toasted Gnocchi Bites: A crispy, savory snack or appetizer perfect for sharing.
Italian Sausage and Gnocchi Amatriciana: A hearty and flavorful dish bursting with rich tomato and sausage.
Sheet Pan Gnocchi with Italian Sausage, Broccoli Rabe, Onions and Peppers: An incredibly easy and delicious weeknight meal with minimal cleanup.

Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi

Author: MaryAnn Dwyer

Servings: 6 servings

This Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi is a comfort food favorite. It’s a one-pan meal that’s a combination of juicy chicken and pillowy gnocchi all in an irresistible creamy sauce flavored with garlic, fresh thyme and Parmesan.

Prep Time: 20 mins

Cook Time: 30 mins

Total Time: 50 mins

Ingredients

2 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. pepper
1/2 tsp. paprika
3 Tbsp. olive oil
2 Tbsp. butter
2 medium shallots, finely chopped
6 cloves garlic, 4 smashed, 2 finely minced
1/4 cup white cooking wine
2 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken stock, divided
1 cup heavy cream
1 Tbsp. fresh thyme leaves
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 lb. shelf-stable mini potato gnocchi, uncooked
Chopped parsley, for garnish if desired

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium heat. Combine your flour, salt, pepper and paprika in a shallow bowl and then dip your chicken thighs in, one at a time on both sides and then add to the hot skillet. Cook the chicken until no longer pink inside, roughly 8 minutes per side. They should register 165 degrees F in the center of the thigh on a thermometer. Remove the thighs from the pan to a plate and set aside.
Add butter to the skillet and cook your shallots on medium-low heat until softened, followed by your garlic. Add your wine at this point and scrape any brown bits from the bottom of the pan and continue to cook until the wine has almost evaporated.
Stir in 1 1/2 cups of the chicken stock and thyme leaves and cook until heated through, followed by your cream and mix until well combined.
Add gnocchi and cook, uncovered for 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the gnocchi is tender and the sauce has thickened. Add your Parmesan cheese and your remaining 3/4 cup chicken stock slowly until you get to your desired thickness and mix until well combined and smooth. I added the entire 3/4 cup. Add your chicken and just cook until heated through. I like to cut my chicken into bite-sized pieces before adding, but you could also leave the thighs whole. Sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

I used shelf-stable mini potato gnocchi for this recipe, but if you can’t find mini gnocchi just use regular size. You will add the gnocchi to the sauce uncooked; it will cook in the sauce.

This dish is delicious served with a side salad and some chilled white wine.

As mentioned above, I used boneless skinless chicken thighs for this recipe, but if you prefer chicken breasts by all means use those. Cooking time for the breasts will be less, so just cook until no longer pink inside.

Nutrition

Keyword: Chicken, Comfort Food, Gnocchi

Cuisine: American

Course: Main Dish

I genuinely hope you carve out a cozy evening to savor this delightful Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi. It’s truly an easy meal that doesn’t compromise on big, comforting flavors!

Please do let me know if you give this recipe a try. Your feedback is always appreciated! If you have any questions as you’re cooking, feel free to drop a comment below. Enjoy!