As I poured the rich tomato sauce over perfectly seared chicken and tender gnocchi, a wave of savory aroma filled my kitchen, instantly lifting my spirits. This Caprese Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a delightful marriage of classic Italian flavors that brought a smile to my face after a long day. Fresh basil wafted through the air, mingling with the sweetness of cherry tomatoes and the creamy goodness of mozzarella, creating a dish that truly feels like a warm embrace.
What I love most about this recipe is how effortlessly it transforms into a comforting meal—perfect for those busy weeknights when you’re craving something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re a passionate home cook or someone looking to rekindle that love for homemade food, you’ll find this dish not only quick to prepare but also a staple that your taste buds will adore! With some simple ingredients and just a few steps, you can whip up a delicious dinner that brings everyone around the table. Let’s dive into making this Italian delight together!
Why will you love this Caprese Chicken Gnocchi Skillet?
Quick and Easy: This skillet meal comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic evenings.
Flavor Explosion: Juicy chicken, tender gnocchi, and the freshness of basil create a vibrant taste that’ll have you coming back for seconds.
Versatile Options: Whether you prefer it vegetarian or want to experiment with different pastas, this recipe easily adapts to your palate.
Crowd-Pleaser: Rich and comforting, it’s sure to impress family and friends, making it perfect for entertaining.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Leftovers reheat beautifully, ensuring you enjoy delicious meals even on your busiest days. Dive into a dish that merges tradition and convenience for the ultimate comfort food experience!
Caprese Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Ingredients
For the Skillet
• Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps in sautéing the chicken; substitute with any neutral oil if needed.
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (6 oz. each) – Provides protein; slice or pound thicker breasts for even cooking.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor; adjust based on dietary needs or replace with sea salt.
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Adds warmth; substitute with white pepper for a milder spice.
• Large Shallot – Provides sweetness and depth; can be substituted with a small onion if shallots aren’t available.
• Garlic Cloves – Offers aromatic flavor; use jarred minced garlic if fresh isn’t handy.
• Dry White Wine – Adds acidity; replace with vegetable broth for a non-alcoholic version.
• Canned Tomato Sauce – Forms the sauce base; swap with crushed tomatoes for a chunkier texture.
• Low-Sodium Chicken Broth – Adds liquid and flavor; vegetable broth can be used for a lighter taste.
• Fresh Gnocchi (17.5 oz. pkg) – A quick cooking pasta option; homemade gnocchi can enhance flavor.
For Toppings
• Halved Cherry Tomatoes (2-3 cups) – Adds sweetness and juiciness; substitute with diced fresh tomatoes.
• Fresh Mozzarella (8 oz., cubed) – Contributes creaminess and flavor; opt for low-fat mozzarella for a lighter choice.
• Fresh Basil Leaves (1/2 cup) – Adds freshness; use dried basil instead, but use less as it’s more concentrated.
• Store-Bought Balsamic Glaze – Provides a sweet-tart finish; sub with balsamic vinegar and a sprinkle of sugar if necessary.
Indulge in this Caprese Chicken Gnocchi Skillet that’ll surely become a family favorite!
How to Make Caprese Chicken Gnocchi Skillet
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Heat Oil: Warm a generous amount of extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 2-3 minutes. This will create a perfect base for your chicken.
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Sear Chicken: Season both sides of the boneless, skinless chicken breasts with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Sear the chicken for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
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Sauté Aromatics: Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the large shallot and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes, allowing those flavors to meld.
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Deglaze Skillet: Carefully pour in the dry white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any delicious brown bits stuck to the bottom for extra flavor. Simmer for 1-2 minutes until slightly reduced.
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Add Sauces: Stir in the canned tomato sauce and low-sodium chicken broth, creating a rich, flavorful sauce. Bring it to a gentle simmer.
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Cook Chicken: Return the seared chicken to the skillet, cover, and let it cook for 5-7 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, ensuring the chicken is juicy and tender.
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Prepare Gnocchi: While the chicken is simmering, cook the fresh gnocchi according to package instructions, usually around 2-3 minutes until they float. Drain and set aside.
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Combine it All: Stir the cooked gnocchi into the skillet along with halved cherry tomatoes, cubed mozzarella, and fresh basil leaves. Mix everything together until the cheese starts to melt, about 2-3 minutes.
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Finish with Glaze: Drizzle the store-bought balsamic glaze over the top just before serving for that perfect sweet-tart finish.
Optional: Garnish with additional fresh basil for a pop of color and freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Caprese Chicken Gnocchi Skillet
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making your next meal even tastier!
Freezer: If you want to prep ahead, you can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers, ensuring no air gets in.
Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. Add a splash of broth if needed to restore creaminess.
Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the sauce and chicken in advance, then simply cook the gnocchi and combine before serving for a quick dinner fix.
Helpful Tricks for Caprese Chicken Gnocchi Skillet
- Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for juicy results.
- Gnocchi Cooking Time: Fresh gnocchi only take about 2-3 minutes to cook. Avoid overcooking to prevent them from becoming mushy.
- Depth of Flavor: Don’t skip deglazing the skillet with white wine. This enhances the sauce’s flavor and gives a lovely complexity to the dish.
- Ingredient Substitutions: Feel free to swap ingredients; for example, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for an equally tasty vegetarian version of this Caprese Chicken Gnocchi Skillet.
- Fresh Herbs Matter: Fresh basil adds a vibrant flavor that’s hard to replicate; always opt for fresh if possible for the best taste.
Make Ahead Options
These Caprese Chicken Gnocchi Skillet components are perfect for meal prep, saving you crucial time during busy weeknights. You can pre-cook the chicken and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain quality, allow the chicken to cool completely before refrigerating in an airtight container. Additionally, you can chop the shallots, garlic, and tomatoes ahead of time, and keep them stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to enjoy this delicious dish, simply reheat the chicken, sauté the garlic and shallots, then follow the remaining steps by adding the gnocchi and fresh ingredients for a comforting meal that’s just as delightful as when first prepared!
Caprese Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Variations
Invite your culinary creativity with these delightful twists that will elevate your Caprese Chicken Gnocchi Skillet!
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Vegetarian Delight: Replace chicken with roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers for a hearty, plant-based dish. The colors will brighten your plate, making it even more enticing.
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Pasta Swap: Use penne or fusilli instead of gnocchi for a deliciously different texture. Each bite will have a unique mouthfeel, while still embracing the essence of Italian comfort food.
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Creamy Addition: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or ricotta for a decadent twist, enhancing the creaminess and richness of the dish. It’s a lovely way to elevate this comforting meal!
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Hearty Greens: Toss in fresh spinach or arugula just before serving for added color and nutrients. They wilt beautifully and offer a fresh peppery flavor that contrasts nicely with the rich sauce.
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Herb Boost: Experiment with other fresh herbs like thyme or oregano to switch up the flavor profile. These herbs can add layers of fragrant complexity you’ll love.
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Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced fresh chili for a pop of heat. Just a pinch can transform your dish from cozy comfort to a warm, fiery indulgence!
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Nutty Flavor: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or walnuts over the top before serving for a delightful crunch and an extra nutty flavor. It’s a wonderful texture contrast alongside the soft gnocchi!
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Gourmet Touch: Try using burrata cheese instead of mozzarella for an ultra-creamy experience. The luxurious texture will elevate this simple dish to gourmet status!
What to Serve with Caprese Chicken Gnocchi Skillet?
Transform your next dinner into a delightful experience by pairing your meal with complementing sides and drinks.
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Crusty Garlic Bread: Perfect for sopping up the delicious sauce, this bread adds a savory crunch that pairs wonderfully with the dish.
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Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the gnocchi, making the meal feel complete.
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Roasted Vegetables: Bonus colors on your plate! Caramelized eggplant, zucchini, or bell peppers provide both flavor and a lovely texture contrast.
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Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle just before serving enhances the dish’s cheesiness and augments the Italian flair.
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Pinot Grigio: This crisp white wine pairs beautifully, enhancing the flavors of the chicken and tomatoes while refreshing your palate.
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Chocolate Panna Cotta: Treat yourself to a silky dessert that contrasts nicely against the savory notes of your Caprese Chicken Gnocchi Skillet. The sweetness rounds off the meal perfectly!
With these suggestions, your dinner will surely become a memorable occasion, filled with delightful flavors and textures!
Caprese Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting your tomatoes, look for vibrant, shiny cherry tomatoes without any dark spots. They should feel firm to the touch and smell sweet. For basil, choose fresh leaves without any brown edges, as they’ll contribute the best flavor. As for the mozzarella, go for a block of fresh mozzarella instead of pre-packaged shredded cheese for that creamy texture.
What is the best way to store leftovers of the Caprese Chicken Gnocchi Skillet?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the container is well-sealed to maintain freshness, and remember the flavors will become even more delicious as they meld. When ready to eat, just reheat it on the stovetop over medium-low heat for about 10 minutes.
Can I freeze Caprese Chicken Gnocchi Skillet?
Of course! This dish freezes beautifully. After it has cooled completely, portion it into freezer-safe containers, making sure to leave some space at the top for expansion. It can be stored for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and warm it on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth if it appears too thick!
What if my chicken turns out rubbery?
Very! To prevent rubbery chicken, be sure to sear it only until it’s golden brown, around 5-6 minutes per side. An instant-read meat thermometer is your best friend here—remove the chicken from the skillet at 165°F. If your chicken breasts are thick, consider slicing them in half before cooking to ensure even doneness.
Is this Caprese Chicken Gnocchi Skillet safe for pets or people with allergies?
Always a good question! This dish contains chicken, dairy, and gluten from the gnocchi, which may not be suitable for everyone. If you have a dairy allergy, opt for dairy-free mozzarella alternatives. For pets, it’s best to keep this dish away from them, especially due to ingredients like garlic and certain herbs that may not be safe for animals.
What’s the ideal way to reheat Caprese Chicken Gnocchi Skillet?
When reheating, the stovetop method is my favorite! Just add the leftovers to a skillet over medium-low heat, sprinkle a little chicken broth or olive oil if needed, and stir occasionally for about 5-10 minutes until heated through. This method helps maintain the creamy texture and allows the flavors to shine.
Caprese Chicken Gnocchi Skillet: Your New Quick Dinner Crush
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat Oil: Warm a generous amount of extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 2-3 minutes.
- Sear Chicken: Season both sides of the boneless, skinless chicken breasts with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Sear the chicken for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Sauté Aromatics: Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the large shallot and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Deglaze Skillet: Carefully pour in the dry white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any delicious brown bits stuck to the bottom. Simmer for 1-2 minutes until slightly reduced.
- Add Sauces: Stir in the canned tomato sauce and low-sodium chicken broth, creating a rich, flavorful sauce. Bring it to a gentle simmer.
- Cook Chicken: Return the seared chicken to the skillet, cover, and let it cook for 5-7 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Prepare Gnocchi: While the chicken is simmering, cook the fresh gnocchi according to package instructions, usually around 2-3 minutes until they float. Drain and set aside.
- Combine it All: Stir the cooked gnocchi into the skillet along with halved cherry tomatoes, cubed mozzarella, and fresh basil leaves. Mix everything together until the cheese starts to melt, about 2-3 minutes.
- Finish with Glaze: Drizzle the store-bought balsamic glaze over the top just before serving.