Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a one-pan wonder that brings together tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a zesty lemon-garlic cream sauce. This comforting yet bright dish is perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-skillet recipe for easy prep and cleanup
• Bright lemon flavor paired with savory garlic and creamy sauce
• Uses store-bought gnocchi—no boiling required
• Quick and satisfying, ready in just 30 minutes
• Versatile and family-friendly

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken breasts or thighs, cut into cutlets or bite-sized pieces
• Olive oil and butter
• Garlic, minced
• Lemon juice and zest
• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream or half-and-half
• Potato gnocchi (shelf-stable)
• Parmesan cheese
• Salt, pepper, garlic powder, lemon pepper
• Fresh spinach (optional)
• Fresh herbs like parsley or dill (for garnish)

Directions

this recipe

1. Season chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and lemon pepper.
2. Heat oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear chicken until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. Add minced garlic to the same skillet and sauté for 30 seconds.
4. Stir in chicken broth, lemon juice, and zest to deglaze the pan.
5. Pour in cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
6. Add gnocchi directly to the sauce and cook for 5–7 minutes until tender and sauce thickens.
7. Stir in Parmesan cheese and spinach, if using, until wilted.
8. Return chicken to the skillet and warm through.
9. Garnish with fresh herbs and extra cheese if desired.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Use chicken thighs for a juicier result
• Swap spinach with kale, peas, or zucchini
• Make it lighter with milk or half-and-half instead of cream
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat
• Use gluten-free gnocchi if needed

Storage/reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days
• Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave with a splash of cream or broth
• Not recommended for freezing due to texture changes

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen gnocchi?

Yes, but cook according to package directions first before adding to the sauce.

2. Is it okay to skip the spinach?

Yes, you can omit it or replace with another veggie like peas or kale.

3. Can I use milk instead of cream?

You can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce may be thinner.

4. Will lemon curdle the sauce?

Using heavy cream helps prevent curdling; avoid boiling once lemon is added.

5. Can I prepare the components ahead?

Yes, cook the chicken ahead and refrigerate; assemble and heat when ready to serve.

6. Is this gluten-free?

Only if you use gluten-free gnocchi and ensure other ingredients are GF.

7. What herbs pair best with this dish?

Fresh parsley, dill, or thyme add a bright, fresh touch.

8. Can I add more protein?

Yes, you can add shrimp or use more chicken.

9. What can I serve it with?

A green salad, steamed veggies, or garlic bread pairs perfectly.

10. How do I thicken the sauce?

Let the gnocchi cook in the sauce to release starch, or add a cornstarch slurry if needed.

Conclusion

Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a cozy yet refreshing one-pan meal with tender chicken, creamy sauce, and soft gnocchi. Its balanced flavors and quick prep make it a go-to for both weeknight meals and special dinners. Enjoy every zesty, comforting bite!

Print