Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a comforting, one-pan meal that combines tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a rich, garlicky lemon cream sauce. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty yet refreshing, thanks to the bright citrus and savory garlic flavors.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
chicken breastsgnocchi (store-bought or homemade)olive oilgarliccloveheavy creamchicken brothparmesan cheeselemon juicelemon zestbaby spinachsalt and pepperfresh parsley (optional for garnish)
directions
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook until golden and cooked through. Remove and slice.
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing it to a gentle simmer.
Add the gnocchi and cook until they are tender and the sauce begins to thicken.
Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and parmesan cheese until well combined.
Add sliced chicken and baby spinach to the skillet, cooking until the spinach wilts and everything is heated through.
Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Garnish with chopped parsley and extra parmesan before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 20 minutesTotal time: 30 minutes
Variations
Add sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy depth of flavor.
Swap spinach for kale or arugula for a different green.
Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker version.
Add red pepper flakes for a little heat.
storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.
FAQs
Can I use frozen gnocchi?
Yes, just make sure to thaw them first or increase cooking time slightly.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Use coconut cream and a dairy-free cheese alternative, though flavor will vary.
Can I use chicken thighs instead?
Absolutely, boneless skinless thighs work great and add extra richness.
What if my sauce is too thick?
Add a bit more broth or cream to thin it out to your liking.
Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate upon thawing.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes, mushrooms, zucchini, or peas would complement the dish well.
What kind of skillet should I use?
A large non-stick or cast-iron skillet works best for even cooking.
Can I use lemon extract?
Fresh lemon juice and zest are preferred for the best flavor.
How can I make it lighter?
Substitute half-and-half for cream and use less cheese.
Can I serve this with a side?
A crisp green salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully.
Conclusion
Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet brings bold flavors and creamy comfort together in one pan. With zesty lemon, hearty gnocchi, and juicy chicken, it’s a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and impossible to resist. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this dish is a must-try for flavor lovers.
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Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet – A Flavor Explosion!
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian‑inspired
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
A rich and comforting one‑pan dinner featuring tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a creamy lemon‑garlic sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite‑sized pieces
- 1 pkg (16 oz) potato gnocchi
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 lemon, zest and juice
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season chicken with salt and pepper; cook until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Add garlic to the skillet and sauté 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and gently stir to deglaze the pan.
- Add gnocchi, cover, and simmer about 5 minutes until tender.
- Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan, lemon zest, and juice; simmer until slightly thickened.
- Return chicken to the skillet along with spinach; cook until spinach wilts.
- Adjust seasoning, sprinkle parsley, and serve hot.
Notes
- Use pre‑cooked or store‑bought gnocchi for convenience.
- Swap in half‑and‑half for a lighter sauce.
- Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Substitute kale or arugula if you don’t have spinach.