If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Creamy Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Recipe is exactly what you need. Tender, juicy chicken thighs cooked to golden perfection meet pillowy potato gnocchi, all bathed in a luscious, garlicky cream sauce that’s bursting with earthy mushrooms and a touch of spice. Each bite delivers a comforting balance of savory flavors and silky textures that make it one of those recipes you’ll want to make again and again. It’s a perfect meal to impress guests or simply treat yourself to a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might look straightforward, but each one plays a vital role in building the rich layers of flavor and comforting texture that make this dish unforgettable. From the crispy chicken skin to the creamy sauce and tender gnocchi, every element counts.
- Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: The skin crisps up beautifully, locking in juicy, flavorful meat underneath.
- Salt and black pepper: Simple seasonings that bring out the natural flavors perfectly.
- Garlic powder: Adds an extra depth of garlic flavor without overpowering the dish.
- Olive oil: For searing the chicken to that golden, crispy finish.
- Unsalted butter: Creates a rich base for the garlic sauce.
- Fresh garlic cloves, minced: The star of the sauce, providing fragrant warmth.
- Sliced mushrooms: Add an earthy earthiness that complements the creamy sauce wonderfully.
- Heavy cream: Makes the sauce decadently smooth and velvety.
- Chicken broth: Adds savory depth and balances the richness of the cream.
- Dried thyme and Italian seasoning: These herbs infuse the sauce with aromatic complexity.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): A subtle kick that wakes up your taste buds.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce adding a nutty, salty finish.
- Potato gnocchi: Soft pillows that soak up the creamy sauce perfectly.
- Baby spinach: Brightens the dish with fresh color and a healthy touch.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Recipe
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Start by seasoning those bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs generously with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and carefully lay the chicken skin-side down. This sizzling moment is where the magic begins—the chicken skin crisps up to a beautiful golden brown in about 5 minutes. Flip and cook for another 5 minutes until the chicken is nearly cooked through, then set it aside. This step ensures you get that perfect combination of crispy skin and juicy meat.
Step 2: Build the Creamy Garlic Sauce
Lower the heat to medium and melt the butter in the same skillet, allowing it to soak up the flavorful browned bits left from the chicken. Add minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, sautéing until fragrant and tender—this only takes about 2 minutes. Next, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, followed by dried thyme, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you’re feeling adventurous. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, then add grated Parmesan cheese, stirring it in until the sauce becomes irresistibly creamy and smooth.
Step 3: Cook the Gnocchi and Wilt Spinach
Now it’s time for the gnocchi, the soft, tender clouds that soak up all the flavors. Stir them into the creamy sauce and let them cook for about 3 minutes, gently expanding and getting perfectly tender. Toss in the baby spinach and watch it wilt beautifully, adding a fresh pop of color and nutrition right into your skillet.
Step 4: Combine and Finish Cooking
Finally, nestle the seared chicken thighs back into that luscious sauce and simmer everything together for about 10 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and has absorbed some of the creamy garlic goodness. This melding of flavors is the heart of this Creamy Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Recipe—where every ingredient shines through perfectly balanced richness and comforting warmth.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or a handful of chopped fresh parsley right before serving elevates the dish visually and adds a burst of fresh flavor. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil can also add a luscious finishing touch that enhances the creamy texture even more.
Side Dishes
This meal is wonderfully hearty on its own, but if you want to round it out, consider a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts with a touch of lemon work beautifully too, adding color and a bright, fresh contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this dish family-style right from the skillet for that warm, inviting feel. Or, for a more elegant presentation, plate the chicken atop a bed of gnocchi with a drizzle of sauce artfully spooned around. A side of crusty garlic bread is a fantastic addition and perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (though it’s so tasty, there might not be!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen and meld, making reheated servings just as delicious as fresh.
Freezing
This Creamy Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Recipe freezes well for up to 2 months. Cool the dish completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently to maintain the texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the recipe slowly on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. This keeps the sauce silky and prevents the cream from curdling. You can add a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce thickens too much during reheating.
FAQs
Can I use boneless chicken instead of bone-in?
Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs or breasts can be used, but keep in mind that bone-in chicken offers more flavor and juiciness. Adjust cooking time accordingly to ensure the meat is cooked through without drying out.
Is it okay to use store-bought gnocchi?
Definitely! Store-bought potato gnocchi works perfectly and saves time. Just be sure to follow the cooking times on the package and add them to the sauce as directed for optimal texture.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, try substituting the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan. The flavor will differ slightly but remain delicious and creamy.
How spicy is the dish with red pepper flakes?
Adding red pepper flakes gives just a mild kick that enhances the garlic and herbs without overpowering the dish. If you prefer no heat, simply omit them.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can prep the components like sautéing the mushrooms and garlic in advance and store them in the fridge. Cook the chicken fresh when ready to serve for the best texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Recipe quickly becomes a favorite for anyone who loves a hearty, flavorful, and comforting meal. It hits all the right notes with crispy chicken, velvety sauce, and tender gnocchi, making it a perfect dinner option for busy weeknights or special occasions. Give it a try—you’ll find yourself coming back to this cozy classic again and again with a smile.
Print
Creamy Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Creamy Garlic Chicken and Gnocchi recipe features tender, golden-brown chicken thighs simmered in a rich, flavorful garlic cream sauce with sautéed mushrooms, fresh spinach, and pillowy potato gnocchi. It’s a comforting, one-pan meal perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner that comes together in about 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Sauce
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Main
- 12 ounces potato gnocchi
- 2 cups baby spinach
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs evenly with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to infuse flavor. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken skin-side down until the skin is golden brown and crispy, about 5 minutes. Flip the chicken and cook for another 5 minutes. Once cooked to a beautiful golden color, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: Reduce heat to medium and melt the unsalted butter in the same skillet to utilize the flavorful drippings. Add minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, sautéing for about 2 minutes until fragrant and mushrooms are softened.
- Build the Creamy Base: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Season the sauce with dried thyme, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts fully into the sauce, creating a smooth and creamy texture.
- Cook the Gnocchi: Add the potato gnocchi directly to the sauce and cook for approximately 3 minutes, allowing them to soften and absorb the flavors.
- Add Spinach and Combine: Stir in the baby spinach and cook until wilted, incorporating vibrant greens into the dish.
- Simmer Chicken in Sauce: Nestle the seared chicken thighs back into the skillet with the sauce and simmer for 10 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through and tender.
- Serve: Serve the creamy garlic chicken and gnocchi hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired for added flavor. Enjoy your comforting and rich meal!
Notes
- Ensure the chicken is cooked through by checking the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- You can substitute baby spinach with kale or Swiss chard for a different flavor and texture.
- For a lighter version, replace heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce may be less thick.
- Red pepper flakes are optional and can be omitted for a milder taste.
- Leftover chicken can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently before serving.
