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Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

This dish features tender gnocchi pan-fried until they develop a golden, slightly crispy exterior, combined with sautéed chicken pieces and garlic in a buttery sauce. The final dish showcases a combination of soft, pillowy gnocchi and crisp chicken bites coated in aromatic garlic and butter, creating a dish with contrasting textures and rich flavors.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 520

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb gnocchi fresh or store-bought
  • 2 large chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large skillet or frying pan
  • Spatula or tongs
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Set a large skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Once shimmering, add the gnocchi in a single layer, allowing them to cook undisturbed until golden brown and crispy on the bottom, about 3–4 minutes. Flip or shake the pan to turn them, and cook until all sides are crisped, then remove and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil and toss in the bite-sized chicken pieces. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes, developing a nice sear on the outside. Season with salt and pepper as it cooks.
  3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the chicken. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, hearing a gentle sizzle and noticing the garlic turning lightly golden.
  4. Reduce heat to medium-low and add the butter to the skillet, letting it melt and bubbling softly, coating the chicken and releasing a rich aroma. Stir gently to combine.
  5. Return the crispy gnocchi to the skillet and toss everything together, ensuring the gnocchi are coated in the buttery garlic sauce. Cook for another 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the gnocchi to reheat.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot straight from the skillet, letting the crispy edges and aromatic sauce enhance each bite.

Notes

For extra flavor, sprinkle with chopped parsley or grated Parmesan before serving.