Crispy Garlic Chicken & Gnocchi

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Golden, crispy chicken meets soft, pillowy gnocchi in a garlic-infused cream sauce that’s as comforting as it is craveable. This Crispy Garlic Chicken & Gnocchi recipe is one of those dinner winners that feels fancy but is super simple to pull together, perfect for weeknights or when guests drop by.

The chicken is pan-seared to a beautiful golden crust, locking in juicy flavor, then sliced and served over gnocchi tossed in a luscious garlic parmesan sauce. With a few herbs and a final sprinkle of cheese, this dish transforms into something that tastes straight from a cozy Italian kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Garlic Chicken & Gnocchi

• Fast and flavorful: Ready in under 40 minutes with minimal fuss.
• Family-friendly: The creamy gnocchi and crispy chicken combo is always a hit.
• Comfort food deluxe: Rich, creamy, garlicky and satisfying.
• Elegant enough for guests: Looks restaurant-worthy but is effortless to make.

What Kind of Gnocchi Should I Use?

You can use store-bought shelf-stable gnocchi for ease, but refrigerated gnocchi offers an extra-tender bite that makes the dish even more luxurious. If you’re feeling adventurous, homemade gnocchi works beautifully and soaks up the sauce like a dream.

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Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken thighs – Delivers juicy texture and richer flavor than breasts.
• Gnocchi – Choose soft, pillowy potato gnocchi for the perfect contrast to crispy chicken.
• Garlic cloves – Adds deep, aromatic flavor to both the chicken and the sauce.
• Olive oil – For pan-searing the chicken to a golden crust.
• Salted butter – Enriches the sauce and adds silky texture.
• Heavy cream – Creates a rich and velvety sauce to coat the gnocchi.
• Freshly grated parmesan cheese – Adds nutty, salty depth to the sauce.
• Fresh thyme or parsley – Brightens and finishes the dish with a touch of herbaceous freshness.
• Salt and black pepper – For seasoning to enhance overall flavor.

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How To Make the Crispy Garlic Chicken & Gnocchi

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Pat the chicken thighs dry, then season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and add the chicken. Cook for 5–7 minutes per side until golden and crispy, and fully cooked through. Transfer to a plate and cover to keep warm.

Step 2: Cook the Gnocchi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook until they float to the top, about 2–3 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Cream Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, reduce the heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Combine and Finish

Add the drained gnocchi to the sauce and gently toss to coat. Slice the crispy chicken and lay it on top. Sprinkle with fresh thyme or parsley and extra parmesan if desired. Serve hot.

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Serving Suggestions for Crispy Garlic Chicken & Gnocchi

This dish serves 4 people generously. Pair it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness. A glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon rounds out this cozy, satisfying meal.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any 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 milk to loosen the sauce. Freezing is not recommended, as the gnocchi and sauce may change texture.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, but chicken thighs offer more flavor and stay juicier. If using breasts, pound them slightly for even cooking.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prep the chicken and sauce a day ahead, but cook the gnocchi fresh to maintain their tender texture.

Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?
You can swap the cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free parmesan alternative. It won’t taste quite the same, but it works.

What herbs can I substitute for thyme?
Parsley, basil, or rosemary are great substitutes. Use what you have on hand.

Can I add vegetables to this?
Absolutely! Spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes make delicious additions.

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Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If this cozy dinner speaks to you, try these other comforting meals:

• Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Bake
• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce
• Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup
• Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
• Wholesome Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you stick with thighs or try chicken breasts? Did you add mushrooms or keep it classic?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

Check out even more delicious meals over on my Pinterest: Life With Livia.

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