Caprese Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe

The Caprese Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a one-pan meal that combines pillowy gnocchi, juicy chicken, sweet cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil in a light yet flavorful garlic butter sauce.

Inspired by the classic Italian Caprese salad, this recipe transforms those iconic flavors into a hearty, satisfying dinner. It’s the perfect mix of comfort food and freshness, with a touch of elegance.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s quick, comforting, and versatile. The gnocchi soaks up all the garlicky, buttery flavors, while the juicy chicken and mozzarella create a hearty bite. The fresh basil and tomatoes balance the richness with brightness. It’s truly a meal that feels both indulgent and fresh at the same time.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• One-pan wonder: Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
• Balanced meal: Protein, carbs, and veggies in one dish.
• Quick & easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or even a cozy date night.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: ~450–500 kcal

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450 g) potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 pint (about 2 cups) cherry tomatoes (halved)
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine, halved if large)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ cup chicken broth (or white wine for depth)
• ¼ cup fresh basil leaves (torn or chopped)
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)

Directions & Step-by-Step Preparation Method:

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
3. Sear for 4–5 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Gnocchi

1. In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil and butter.
2. Add gnocchi and cook for 3–4 minutes until golden and slightly crispy.
3. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

1. Add cherry tomatoes and chicken broth (or wine).
2. Cook for 3–4 minutes until tomatoes soften and release their juices.
3. Return chicken to the skillet and stir to combine.

Step 4: Add Caprese Touch

1. Lower heat to medium-low.
2. Add mozzarella balls and stir gently until they start to melt slightly.
3. Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh basil.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

1. Top with Parmesan cheese if desired.
2. Serve hot directly from the skillet.

How to Serve

• Serve as a main course with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
• Pair with garlic bread or focaccia to soak up the sauce.
• Enjoy with a glass of white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.

Additional Recipe Tips & Variations:

• Protein Swap: Use shrimp, turkey, or Italian sausage instead of chicken.
• Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and add mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes for heat.
• Creamy Option: Stir in ¼ cup heavy cream with the tomatoes for a creamy sauce.
• Homemade Gnocchi: For extra indulgence, make gnocchi from scratch.

Freezing & Storage

• Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water.
• Freezing: Not ideal due to mozzarella and gnocchi texture, but you can freeze cooked chicken and sauce base separately (without cheese) for up to 2 months.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large oven-safe skillet (cast iron or nonstick)
• Tongs or spatula
• Sharp knife for prepping chicken and vegetables

FAQ:

Q1: Can I use shelf-stable gnocchi instead of fresh?
Yes, shelf-stable works just fine—just cook it a little longer for a golden crust.

Q2: Can I bake this dish?
Yes! After adding mozzarella, place skillet under the broiler for 2–3 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Q3: What can I use instead of mozzarella balls?
Shredded mozzarella, burrata, or provolone are great alternatives.

Q4: How do I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free gnocchi and check that your broth and seasonings are certified gluten-free.

Q5: Can I meal-prep this recipe?
Yes—prep chicken, chop tomatoes, and measure ingredients ahead of time. Cook fresh for best results.

Conclusion

The Caprese Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a delightful mix of comfort and freshness, bringing together tender chicken, crispy gnocchi, juicy tomatoes, melty mozzarella, and vibrant basil in one pan. It’s quick, hearty, and bursting with flavor—perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend meals. This dish is bound to become a staple in your kitchen and a favorite at the dinner table.