A warm, comforting, and irresistibly creamy dinner, this one pan lemon and garlic chicken gnocchi brings together tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a bright, velvety lemon sauce. Everything cooks in a single skillet, making it an ideal weeknight solution that feels elegant enough for guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish offers everything you want in a cozy yet vibrant dinner—juicy chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and a creamy lemon-garlic sauce that clings to every bite. The gnocchi cooks directly in the sauce, so there’s no need for extra pots or boiling. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, it’s a go-to recipe for busy nights or casual entertaining.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 tbsp olive oil, divided
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
salt and pepper
1/2 yellow onion, diced
4 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 tsp dried oregano
1/4 tsp dried thyme
pinch of chili flakes
zest of one lemon
juice of one lemon
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup whole milk
450 g (16 oz) shelf-stable gnocchi
1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese
fresh dill, for garnish

Directions

Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper.
Heat 1 1/2 tbsp olive oil in a large high-sided skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer to a plate.
Reduce heat to medium and add the remaining 1/2 tbsp olive oil. Add the diced onion and cook 4–5 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, and chili flakes. Cook for 1 minute.
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits. Add lemon zest and whole milk, stirring well. Slowly add the lemon juice while stirring constantly.
Bring to a simmer, then stir in the gnocchi. Nestle the chicken and its juices back into the pan. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10–15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Remove the chicken from the skillet. Stir in the parmesan cheese and cook for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Plate the chicken with the gnocchi and finish with fresh dill.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

Add greens such as baby spinach during the final few minutes of cooking for extra color and nutrition.
Substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts if you prefer a juicier cut.
For a lighter version, replace some of the whole milk with additional broth.
Increase the heat with extra chili flakes for a spicier profile.
Use gluten-free gnocchi to make the entire dish gluten-free without changing the method.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 1–2 days. To reheat, place the gnocchi and chicken in a baking dish, add 2 tbsp–1/4 cup chicken broth, cover, and warm in a 400°F oven for 15–20 minutes or until heated through.

FAQs

How do I keep the sauce from curdling when adding lemon juice?

Add the lemon juice slowly while stirring constantly. This helps it emulsify smoothly with the milk.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and remain tender during simmering.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes. Simply use gluten-free shelf-stable gnocchi.

Can I use refrigerated gnocchi instead of shelf-stable?

Yes, but shelf-stable gnocchi releases more starch, which helps thicken the sauce.

Can I use heavy cream instead of whole milk?

Yes. Heavy cream will create a richer, thicker sauce.

Does homemade gnocchi work in this recipe?

It’s not recommended because homemade gnocchi is delicate and may break down in the sauce.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes. Spinach, peas, or steamed green beans pair nicely.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and feels firm to the touch.

Can I make this dairy-free?

While the flavor will change, you may use unsweetened coconut milk and a dairy-free parmesan alternative.

Can I make this ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh because gnocchi continues to absorb sauce, but it can be reheated with added broth.

Conclusion

This one pan creamy lemon and garlic chicken gnocchi is the perfect blend of comforting textures and bright, refreshing flavors. With tender chicken, satisfying gnocchi, and a deliciously creamy sauce all made in a single skillet, it’s a recipe you’ll want to reach for again and again. Enjoy it as an easy weeknight dinner or a dish worthy of sharing with guests.

Easy One Pan Creamy Lemon & Garlic Chicken Gnocchi