Skillet Chicken Parmesan With Gnocchi
Ingredients
- 2 medium skinless
boneless chicken breasts, patted dry, about 1 lb.
- 41/4 tsp. Diamond Crystal or 21/2 tsp. Morton kosher salt
divided
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
or more
- 8 garlic cloves
finely chopped
- 1/2 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 28-oz. can whole peeled tomatoes
- 11/2 tsp. sugar
- 1 17.5-oz. package shelf-stable potato gnocchi
- 2 oz. Parmesan
finely grated
- 8 oz. part-skim mozzarella
sliced 1/4" thick
- Basil leaves
for serving; optional
Directions
- 1
Working with 1 breast at a time, hold a long knife parallel to cutting board and cut 2 medium skinless, boneless chicken breasts (about 1 lb.), patted dry, in half, slicing along a long side to make thin cutlets. Arrange all 4 cutlets in an even layer on cutting board and sprinkle all over with 2 tsp. Diamond Crystal or 1¼ tsp. Morton kosher salt. Transfer to a medium bowl and sprinkle with ¼ cup all-purpose flour; toss to coat.
- 2
Heat ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil in a large high-sided ovenproof skillet, preferably cast iron, over medium. Working in 2 batches and adding more oil between batches if needed, lift cutlets from bowl, shaking off excess flour, and carefully lower into skillet. Cook until deep golden brown, about 3 minutes per side (chicken will finish cooking in oven). Transfer to a large plate or baking sheet.
- 3
Reduce heat to medium-low. Add 8 garlic cloves, finely chopped, and ½ tsp. crushed red pepper flakes to skillet and cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add one 28-oz. can whole peeled tomatoes, crushing with your hands as you go, then add remaining 2¼ tsp. Diamond Crystal or 1¼ tsp. Morton kosher salt and 1½ tsp. sugar. Bring to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until sauce is slightly thickened, about 5 minutes. Add one 17.5-oz. package shelf-stable potato gnocchi and cook, stirring constantly, until gnocchi is barely tender, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat.
- 4
Heat broiler. Arrange chicken in a single layer over gnocchi. Top chicken with 2 oz. Parmesan, finely grated, followed by 8 oz. part-skim mozzarella, sliced ¼" thick. Transfer skillet to oven and broil until cheese is melted and browned, 5–8 minutes; watch closely to avoid burning.
- 5
Serve chicken parm topped with basil leaves if desired.
Skillet Chicken Parmesan With Gnocchi
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Ratings & Reviews
Based on 35 ratings
Rating Breakdown
About this Recipe
Craving the ultimate comfort of Chicken Parmesan without the kitchen chaos? This Skillet Chicken Parmesan With Gnocchi recipe brings all those beloved flavors to your table with satisfying ease, perfect for a cozy weeknight.
Why This Skillet Meal Works
This recipe shines by combining tender chicken and pillowy potato gnocchi directly in a rich, flavorful tomato sauce, all coming together efficiently. You’ll love how the simple process of searing the chicken creates a lovely texture before it simmers in the vibrant sauce, ensuring every bite is infused with robust flavor. It's a method that minimizes fuss while maximizing taste.
What to Expect
Prepare for a hearty, comforting meal that delivers on every front. The chicken breasts, lightly floured and seared, achieve a wonderfully tender texture, soaking up the savory tomato sauce. This sauce, made from whole peeled tomatoes, garlic, and a hint of crushed red pepper flakes, offers a beautiful balance of tang, sweetness, and warmth. Nestled within are soft, yielding potato gnocchi, absorbing the rich sauce. The entire dish is then crowned with generous layers of melted part-skim mozzarella and grated Parmesan, creating that irresistible gooey, cheesy finish you expect from a classic Chicken Parmesan. It's a profoundly satisfying dish that feels both elevated and wonderfully accessible.
Customization & Serving
Make this dish truly your own by adjusting the crushed red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level—a little more for an extra kick, or a little less for a milder flavor profile. The fresh basil leaves are optional but highly recommended; they add a bright, aromatic lift that beautifully complements the richness of the cheese and tomato. This Skillet Chicken Parmesan With Gnocchi is a complete, standalone meal that’s ideal for a comforting family dinner or an impressive yet easy gathering with friends. Serve it straight from the skillet for a rustic, inviting presentation.