Description
Caprese Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a comforting one-pan Italian-inspired meal that combines tender, seasoned chicken breasts with pillowy potato gnocchi, juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil. This easy stovetop recipe delivers classic Caprese flavors in a creamy sauce, perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Gnocchi and Sauce
- 1 lb (450 g) potato gnocchi
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Toppings and Garnish
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
Instructions
- Heat the skillet: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil, allowing it to warm up for about a minute.
- Cook the chicken: Add the cubed chicken breasts to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned on all sides and cooked through.
- Sauté garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
- Add tomatoes: Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing them to soften and release their juices.
- Combine gnocchi and liquids: Stir in the potato gnocchi, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer until tender: Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gnocchi is tender and the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Add cheese: Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese to enrich the sauce with savory flavor.
- Melt mozzarella: Top the skillet evenly with fresh mozzarella balls. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it sit for 1 to 2 minutes until the mozzarella melts.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat. Sprinkle the chopped fresh basil over the dish and drizzle with balsamic glaze. Serve the skillet warm for a delightful meal.
Notes
- Use store-bought shelf-stable or refrigerated gnocchi for convenience.
- Add spinach or zucchini for extra vegetables and nutrition.
- Chicken thighs can be substituted for chicken breasts for a juicier texture.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
