Name: Caprese Chicken Gnocchi Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 500 g potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade); 200 g cherry tomatoes, halved; 200 g mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine); 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves; Salt and pepper, to taste; Balsamic glaze, for drizzling

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This Caprese Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a one-pan wonder that combines tender gnocchi, juicy chicken, melty mozzarella, and the fresh flavors of tomato and basil. I love how it takes all the classic elements of a Caprese salad and turns them into a warm, comforting meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s hearty and fresh at the same time. The gnocchi soaks up all the flavors while still keeping its pillowy texture, and the addition of chicken makes it a full, balanced meal. Since it all comes together in one skillet, cleanup is quick, which is always a win for me on busy nights. Caprese Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Olive oil
Garlic cloves, minced
Potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
Cherry tomatoes, halved
Mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
Fresh basil leaves
Salt and pepper, to taste
Balsamic glaze (for drizzling)

Directions

I heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
I season the chicken with salt and pepper, then cook until golden brown and fully cooked through.
I add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
I stir in the gnocchi and cook for a few minutes until lightly golden.
I add cherry tomatoes and cook until they just start to soften.
I stir in mozzarella balls and let them melt slightly into the dish.
I remove the skillet from the heat, scatter over fresh basil leaves, and drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

I sometimes swap chicken for Italian sausage for a richer flavor. For a vegetarian version, I leave out the meat entirely and add extra veggies like zucchini or spinach. If I want more creaminess, I stir in a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of pesto.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it gently in a skillet with a splash of water or olive oil to keep the gnocchi from drying out. The mozzarella might not be as melty the second time around, but the flavors are still delicious. Caprese Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

FAQs

Can I use frozen gnocchi?

Yes, I cook frozen gnocchi directly in the skillet—it may take an extra couple of minutes to soften.

Do I have to use balsamic glaze?

Not at all, but I love the sweet-tangy contrast it gives to the dish. A drizzle of olive oil works too.

Can I bake this dish instead of cooking it on the stove?

Yes, after cooking the chicken and gnocchi, I transfer everything to an ovenproof dish, top with mozzarella, and bake until bubbly.

Can I use shredded mozzarella instead of balls?

Yes, shredded mozzarella melts beautifully and is an easy swap if that’s what I have on hand.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Yes, though it’s best enjoyed fresh, I portion leftovers for quick lunches and they reheat well.

Conclusion

This Caprese Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a simple, flavorful, and comforting dish that I can whip up in under half an hour. I love how it transforms classic Caprese flavors into a filling one-pan meal, perfect for weeknight dinners or easy meal prep. It’s fresh, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying every time.