Creamy Pesto Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

If you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal that comes together in one pan and tastes like it took hours to make, this Creamy Pesto Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is your new go-to. Tender chicken breast, pillowy gnocchi, and vibrant pesto mingle in a luscious cream sauce, dotted with sweet cherry tomatoes and fresh spinach. This dish hits every mark: simple, flavorful, and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or impressing guests with minimal fuss, this skillet meal delivers big on taste and ease.

Why It Works Every Time

This recipe is a winner because it combines the best textures and flavors in a seamless, one-pan experience. The gnocchi soaks up the creamy pesto sauce, while the chicken adds a hearty protein boost. Garlic infuses the olive oil with just the right amount of warmth, and the cherry tomatoes provide bright pops of freshness that balance the richness. Adding spinach not only brings a vibrant green color but also a healthy twist that blends perfectly into the sauce. Plus, the Parmesan cheese on top adds that irresistible savory finish.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, the step-by-step method ensures your Creamy Pesto Chicken Gnocchi Skillet will come out deliciously every time, making it a dependable recipe to have in your repertoire.

What You’ll Need

1 pound chicken breast, diced
8 ounces gnocchi
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup pesto sauce
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup spinach, chopped
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Cook’s Kit

Large skillet or sauté pan – for cooking everything evenly in one place.
Sharp knife – to dice the chicken and halve the tomatoes.
Cutting board – for safe and easy prep.
Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – perfect for stirring the gnocchi and sauce together.
Measuring cups and spoons – to keep ingredients balanced.

Cook Creamy Pesto Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Like This

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by dicing the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Halve the cherry tomatoes, mince the garlic, and chop the spinach. Having everything ready before you begin cooking makes the process smooth and stress-free.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Gnocchi

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add the gnocchi directly to the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes, tossing occasionally, until the gnocchi is golden and slightly crispy on the outside.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Pesto Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium-low. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine with the gnocchi. Add the pesto sauce and mix well until the sauce is smooth and heated through.

Step 5: Combine and Add Veggies

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir in the cherry tomatoes and chopped spinach. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted and the tomatoes are just softened.

Step 6: Finish with Parmesan

Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the skillet, stirring gently to incorporate it into the creamy sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Creamy Pesto Chicken Gnocchi Skillet hot, straight from the pan. This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or crusty bread to soak up every last bit of sauce.

Ingredient Swaps & Substitutions

Chicken: Swap diced chicken breast for chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful result.
Gnocchi: Use sweet potato gnocchi or whole wheat gnocchi for a twist.
Heavy cream: Substitute with full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
Pesto sauce: Make your own fresh pesto or try a sun-dried tomato pesto for a different flavor profile.
Spinach: Swap spinach for kale or arugula if preferred.
Parmesan cheese: Use a vegan Parmesan alternative or nutritional yeast for dairy-free diets.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your chicken is undercooked, increase cooking time slightly but avoid overcooking to keep it tender.
If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen it up.
For a lighter version, reduce the heavy cream and add more pesto or chicken broth.
If the gnocchi sticks to the pan, make sure to stir often and use enough oil for sautéing.

Storing Tips & Timelines

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce’s creaminess. This dish doesn’t freeze well due to the cream sauce and gnocchi texture, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days.

Your Top Questions

Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using pre-cooked chicken can save time. Add it back to the skillet when you combine the chicken with the sauce to warm through, but be careful not to overcook it.

Is it necessary to use heavy cream?

Heavy cream creates the rich, velvety sauce that makes this dish special. However, you can substitute with half-and-half or a blend of milk and cream cheese if you want a lighter option.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

You can prep the ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to cook the dish fresh to maintain the texture and flavors. If needed, cook the chicken and gnocchi separately and combine with sauce when ready to serve.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

Swap the chicken for tofu or chickpeas, use a plant-based pesto and heavy cream alternative like coconut cream, and substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese.

Pesto Pea And Burrata Spaghetti – A fresh, creamy pasta with vibrant pesto and sweet peas.
Baked Three Cheese Chicken Penne – Comforting baked pasta loaded with melty cheese and tender chicken.
Creamy Basil Pesto Gnocchi With Peas – A simple gnocchi dish with bright basil pesto and sweet peas.

Time to Try It

Now that you have the recipe and all the tips to make your Creamy Pesto Chicken Gnocchi Skillet perfect, it’s time to get cooking! With its rich sauce, tender chicken, and comforting gnocchi, this dish is sure to become a fast favorite. Serve it up for dinner tonight and enjoy a meal that’s both easy and elegant.

This skillet meal offers a perfect balance of creamy, savory, and fresh flavors, making it an ideal recipe to keep handy in your weeknight rotation. Don’t forget to explore the other delicious pasta recipes linked above for even more inspiration!

Share on Pinterest