Name: Caprese Chicken Gnocchi Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb gnocchi (shelf-stable or refrigerated); 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces; 2–3 tbsp olive oil, divided; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved; 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (or 1 cup shredded mozzarella); 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves; Salt and black pepper, to taste; Balsamic glaze, for drizzling (optional); Red pepper flakes, for heat (optional)

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Caprese Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a one-pan wonder that brings together juicy chicken, pillowy gnocchi, fresh tomatoes, melty mozzarella, and fragrant basil in a deliciously simple dish. Inspired by the classic Caprese salad, this skillet meal turns those fresh, bright flavors into a hearty and satisfying dinner that I can make in under 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this dish combines everything I want in a comforting meal—tender chicken, crispy-edged gnocchi, and melty cheese—all tied together with the fresh pop of basil and juicy cherry tomatoes. It’s quick, requires minimal cleanup, and looks just as good as it tastes. Whether I’m cooking for family or just for myself, this skillet meal feels special without being complicated.

Ingredients

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

Gnocchi (shelf-stable or refrigerated)
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
Olive oil
Garlic, minced
Cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
Fresh mozzarella balls (or shredded mozzarella)
Fresh basil leaves
Salt
Black pepper
Balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling)
Red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)

Directions

I start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
I season the chicken with salt and pepper, then cook it in the skillet until golden and cooked through. I remove it from the pan and set it aside.
In the same skillet, I add a bit more oil and pan-fry the gnocchi until golden and slightly crispy on the outside, stirring occasionally.
I add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
I return the chicken to the pan, then toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook until they just begin to soften.
I remove the skillet from heat and gently stir in the mozzarella balls and fresh basil leaves.
I finish it off with a drizzle of balsamic glaze and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if I’m using them.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15–20 minutes
Total time: Around 30 minutes

Variations

I’ve swapped in cooked Italian sausage for a more savory version.
For a vegetarian twist, I skip the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms or zucchini.
I sometimes use sun-dried tomatoes for a richer flavor when fresh ones aren’t in season.
A handful of arugula stirred in at the end adds a peppery bite.
I use mini gnocchi for a fun, bite-sized variation.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or olive oil to loosen it up. The microwave works too, but I stir halfway through to ensure even heating. I don’t recommend freezing, as the texture of the gnocchi changes after thawing.

FAQs

Can I use frozen gnocchi?

Yes, but I make sure to thaw it and pat it dry before sautéing to avoid excess moisture in the skillet.

What kind of mozzarella works best?

I prefer fresh mozzarella balls (like ciliegine or bocconcini), but shredded mozzarella melts well too. I avoid pre-shredded cheese with added starches if I want it extra melty.

Do I need to boil the gnocchi first?

Nope—I pan-fry it straight from the package, and it gets perfectly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

Can I make this ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but I sometimes prep the chicken and cut the veggies ahead so everything comes together faster when I’m ready to cook.

What should I serve with it?

It’s great on its own, but I sometimes serve it with a simple green salad or garlic bread to round out the meal.

Conclusion

Caprese Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is one of those meals that feels both comforting and fresh. I love how it brings together the best of a Caprese salad with the hearty satisfaction of a warm, cheesy skillet dinner. It’s easy to make, beautiful to serve, and always full of flavor—definitely a favorite in my weeknight rotation.