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Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet – A Healthy, Hearty, Gluten-Free One-Pan Dinner Ready in 30 Minutes

Comfort food doesn’t have to be heavy to be satisfying, and this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is proof. Tender bites of chicken are cooked until golden, then tossed with pillowy gluten-free gnocchi in a rich garlic-infused sauce that comes together beautifully in just one pan. It’s cozy, nourishing, and packed with flavor — without feeling overwhelming. What makes this dish special is its balance of texture and simplicity. The gnocchi become lightly crisp on the outside and soft on the inside, the chicken stays juicy and protein-rich, and the garlic brings deep, savory warmth to every bite. Everything cooks in one skillet, making this recipe ideal for busy weeknights when you want something homemade, hearty, and reliable. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or anyone looking for a gluten-free, high-protein, and satisfying meal, this recipe delivers comfort with clean, wholesome ingredients. If you love one-pan meals that feel indulgent but fit a healthy lifestyle, this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet deserves a spot in your regular rotation.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Protein
  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Pasta
  • 16 oz gluten-free gnocchi
Aromatics
  • 4 garlic cloves minced
Vegetables
  • 2 cups baby spinach
Seasonings
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
Liquids & Fats
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • ½ cup chicken broth
Finishing Touch
  • Fresh parsley chopped
  • These ingredients come together to create a savory garlic-forward skillet meal that’s hearty, balanced, and comforting.

Equipment

  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Method
 

Step 1: Season the Chicken
  1. Place chicken pieces in a bowl.
  2. Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
  3. Toss until evenly coated.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
  1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and cooked through.
  3. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Gnocchi
  1. Add remaining olive oil to the same skillet.
  2. Add gluten-free gnocchi in a single layer.
  3. Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly golden.
Step 4: Add Garlic
  1. Reduce heat to medium.
  2. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
Step 5: Deglaze and Combine
  1. Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any flavorful bits from the pan.
  2. Return cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to combine.
Step 6: Add Spinach
  1. Stir in baby spinach and cook for 1–2 minutes, until wilted.
Step 7: Finish and Serve
  1. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  2. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
Add a splash of chicken broth if needed to refresh the texture.
🥄 Variations
Extra Garlic: Add 1–2 more cloves
Veggie Boost: Add more spinach
Low-Carb Option: Replace gnocchi with vegetables
Meal Prep Friendly: Portion into containers
Kid-Friendly: Reduce garlic slightly
Crispier Gnocchi: Cook gnocchi a bit longer before adding liquid
❓ 10 FAQs
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, when using gluten-free gnocchi.
Is this dish healthy?
Yes, it’s balanced and protein-rich.
Can I use chicken thighs?
Yes, boneless thighs work well.
Does the garlic overpower the dish?
No, it’s flavorful but balanced.
Can kids eat this?
Yes, it’s mild and comforting.
Does gnocchi get mushy?
No, pan-searing keeps it tender.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes, it reheats well.
Is this a one-pan meal?
Yes, everything cooks in one skillet.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a larger pan.
What makes this dish hearty?
Protein, gnocchi, and garlic-rich flavor.
🏁 Conclusion
This Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is everything you want in a quick, comforting dinner — simple, hearty, and full of flavor. Juicy chicken, tender gluten-free gnocchi, and fragrant garlic come together in one pan for a meal that feels indulgent yet fits a healthy lifestyle. Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy nights when you still want something homemade and satisfying.