Pin This Chicken Parmesan Gnocchi is the ultimate comfort meal, bringing the beloved flavors of classic chicken parm into a simple, one-skillet dinner that’s ready in only 30 minutes. Imagine pillowy, soft gnocchi tossed with tender shredded chicken and rich marinara sauce, all topped with a layer of bubbling mozzarella and a perfectly seasoned panko crust. It is a hearty, Italian-inspired twist that feels like a gourmet treat with minimal effort.
Pin Using rotisserie chicken and shelf-stable gnocchi makes this recipe an absolute lifesaver for busy weeknights. The secret lies in the contrast between the soft pasta and the crunchy Parmesan-panko topping, which gets beautifully toasted under the broiler. It is a satisfying meal that fills your kitchen with the aroma of garlic and Italian herbs, making it an instant hit for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup minced onion (1 small onion)
- 3 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken recommended)
- 17.6 ounces (500 g) gnocchi (fresh or shelf-stable, not dried)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 24 ounces (680 g) pasta or marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ¾ cup panko bread crumbs
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons freshly chopped basil
Instructions
- Step 1
- Position an oven rack in the upper third of your oven and preheat the broiler on low.
- Step 2
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-proof skillet over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic and onion for about 3 minutes until soft and fragrant.
- Step 3
- Add the gnocchi to the skillet and stir. Cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly golden.
- Step 4
- Stir in the shredded chicken, pasta sauce, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for 5 minutes to heat through.
- Step 5
- While the chicken mixture heats, melt the butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Add the panko, Parmesan, and ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning; stir to combine.
- Step 6
- Remove the cover from the skillet. Sprinkle mozzarella evenly over the gnocchi mixture, then top with the prepared panko mixture.
- Step 7
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and broil for 5–7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the panko is golden brown.
- Step 8
- Remove from the oven, sprinkle with freshly chopped basil, and serve hot.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the best results, ensure you use fresh or shelf-stable gnocchi rather than dried, as they maintain a pillowy texture. If you don't have rotisserie chicken, any pre-cooked shredded chicken will work perfectly in this skillet meal.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and use sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables. You can also make this gluten-free by using gluten-free gnocchi and panko bread crumbs.
Serviervorschläge
This dish pairs wonderfully with a light Italian red wine like Chianti or a crisp green salad. It also goes well with a side of garlic bread to soak up the extra marinara sauce.
Pin Simple to prepare but impressive to serve, this Chicken Parmesan Gnocchi is a testament to how few ingredients can transform into something truly spectacular. Enjoy the gooey cheese and crispy topping in every bite, and watch as this becomes a regular in your weeknight rotation.
Recipe Q&A
- → Can I use frozen gnocchi for this dish?
Yes, frozen gnocchi works well—just cook it according to package instructions before adding to the skillet.
- → How do I make this dish vegetarian?
Simply substitute the shredded chicken with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables for a satisfying vegetarian variant.
- → What type of cheese is best for the topping?
A combination of shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan creates a melty, golden crust with great flavor.
- → Can this be prepared gluten-free?
Use gluten-free gnocchi and panko breadcrumbs to accommodate gluten-free dietary needs without compromising taste.
- → What side dishes pair well with this meal?
A crisp green salad or a light Italian red wine like Chianti complements this rich, flavorful dish perfectly.