Asiago Chicken Gnocchi
Creamy Asiago Chicken Gnocchi is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and fresh spinach in a rich, cheesy sauce. This recipe stands out for its simplicity and flavor, making it ideal for family dinners or special gatherings. It’s quick to prepare, ensuring you can enjoy a comforting meal any night of the week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep and 25 minutes of cooking time, this dish is perfect for busy evenings.
- Flavorful Combination: The creamy Asiago cheese blends beautifully with the savory chicken and soft gnocchi.
- Versatile Ingredient: You can easily swap out ingredients like spinach for other veggies or use different cheeses if preferred.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This dish appeals to both kids and adults, making it great for family meals or entertaining guests.
- One-Pan Wonder: Cooking everything in one skillet minimizes cleanup, saving you time after dinner.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures that your Asiago Chicken Gnocchi turns out perfectly every time.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Non-stick skillet
- Whisk
- Measuring cups
- Cutting board
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Non-stick skillet: Prevents food from sticking and makes cleanup easy.
- Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly when making sauces.
- Measuring cups: Ensures accuracy while measuring ingredients for consistent results.
Ingredients
Creamy Asiago Chicken and Gnocchi with spinach in a rich sauce, perfect for a quick and flavorful family dinner or special occasion!
For the Chicken:
- 3 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 ½ pounds), pounded to an even thickness
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Sauce:
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 1 medium shallot, diced (about ⅓ cup)
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- ½ cup half-and-half
For the Gnocchi:
- 1 package (16 ounces) potato gnocchi, uncooked
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- ½ cup Asiago cheese, finely grated
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How to Make Asiago Chicken Gnocchi
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry and season evenly with kosher salt and black pepper.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large non-stick skillet over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of the butter. Once melted:
1. Add the chicken breasts.
2. Cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Step 3: Keep Warm
Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep warm.
Step 4: Sauté Shallots and Garlic
In the same skillet, add the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter. Once melted:
1. Add the diced shallot.
2. Cook for about 3–5 minutes until softened.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Step 5: Make the Sauce Base
Sprinkle flour over shallot and garlic mixture. Whisk continuously for about 1 minute until fully incorporated and slightly golden.
Step 6: Add Broth
Gradually pour in chicken broth while whisking constantly to combine. Scrape up any browned bits from the skillet:
1. Cook for about 3–5 minutes until sauce has thickened slightly.
Step 7: Incorporate Half-and-Half and Gnocchi
Add half-and-half along with uncooked gnocchi to the skillet:
1. Stir to ensure gnocchi is submerged in sauce.
2. Cook for another 5–7 minutes until gnocchi is tender.
Step 8: Finish with Spinach and Cheese
Stir in fresh spinach and grated Asiago cheese:
1. Cook for about 2–3 minutes until spinach wilts and cheese melts into sauce.
Step 9: Combine with Chicken
Remove from heat; place cooked chicken breasts on top of gnocchi mixture.
Step 10: Serve
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving immediately. Enjoy your creamy Asiago Chicken Gnocchi!
How to Serve Asiago Chicken Gnocchi
Asiago Chicken Gnocchi is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors and presentation. Here are some creative serving suggestions to make your meal even more enjoyable.
Family Style
- Serve the Asiago chicken gnocchi in a large, shallow dish for a communal dining experience. This encourages sharing and adds a warm, inviting touch to family dinners.
Individual Bowls
- Portion the gnocchi into individual bowls for a more refined presentation. Top each bowl with extra Asiago cheese and freshly chopped parsley for an elegant look.
With Garlic Bread
- Pair the dish with crispy garlic bread. The crunchy texture complements the creamy sauce and allows you to soak up every bit of flavor.
Mixed Green Salad
- Offer a fresh mixed green salad on the side. The lightness of the greens balances the richness of the gnocchi, creating a well-rounded meal.
Wine Pairing
- Consider serving this dish with a glass of Chardonnay. The wine’s buttery notes complement the creamy sauce beautifully.
Leftovers
- If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of chicken broth for best results.
How to Perfect Asiago Chicken Gnocchi
To create the best Asiago Chicken Gnocchi, focus on technique and quality ingredients. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and high-quality Asiago cheese make a significant difference in flavor.
- Pound chicken evenly: Ensuring your chicken breasts are of even thickness helps them cook uniformly, preventing dryness.
- Whisk continuously: When adding chicken broth, whisk constantly to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth sauce.
- Don’t overcook gnocchi: Cook gnocchi just until tender; overcooking can lead to mushy pasta that detracts from the dish’s texture.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go! You may want to add more salt or pepper based on your preference.
- Add lemon zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest before serving brightens up the flavors without overpowering them.
Best Side Dishes for Asiago Chicken Gnocchi
Choosing the right side dishes can turn your meal into an unforgettable experience. Here are some excellent options to serve alongside your Asiago Chicken Gnocchi:
-
Garlic Roasted Broccoli
Roasted broccoli tossed with garlic creates a flavorful side that pairs well with creamy sauces. -
Caprese Salad
A fresh Caprese salad made with ripe tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil adds brightness and acidity. -
Sautéed Green Beans
Crisp-tender green beans sautéed in olive oil offer crunch and freshness against rich gnocchi. -
Herbed Couscous
Light and fluffy couscous flavored with herbs complements the heaviness of the main dish perfectly. -
Bruschetta
Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze enhances the Italian theme beautifully. -
Roasted Asparagus
Tender asparagus roasted until slightly charred adds both flavor and elegance to your table setting. -
Stuffed Peppers
Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice and vegetables provide a hearty option that feels festive. -
Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes can be served as comfort food alongside this flavorful dish for those who love extra starch!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Asiago Chicken Gnocchi, it’s easy to overlook a few key details that can enhance your dish. Avoid these common mistakes for the best results.
-
Not seasoning the chicken properly: Skipping salt and pepper can lead to bland chicken. Always season your chicken breasts evenly before cooking.
-
Overcooking the gnocchi: Cooking gnocchi too long can make it mushy. Follow the package instructions and keep an eye on them while cooking.
-
Neglecting to thicken the sauce properly: If you don’t cook the flour enough, your sauce might be runny. Make sure to whisk until golden before adding broth.
-
Using low-quality cheese: Substituting with cheaper cheeses can affect flavor. Opt for high-quality Asiago cheese for a richer taste.
-
Forgetting to stir frequently: Leaving the sauce unattended can cause it to burn. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and avoid sticking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.
Freezing Asiago Chicken Gnocchi
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Best used within 2-3 months for optimal flavor and texture.
Reheating Asiago Chicken Gnocchi
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F; bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until warm.
- Stovetop: Add a splash of broth or cream and heat over medium until warmed through, stirring often.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Asiago Chicken Gnocchi that may help you perfect your dish.
Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute with Parmesan or Fontina if needed, but keep in mind it will alter the flavor profile slightly.
How do I make this dish vegetarian?
To make asiago chicken gnocchi vegetarian, simply replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or your favorite plant-based protein.
What is the best way to serve Asiago Chicken Gnocchi?
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Pair it with a simple salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat and add cooked gnocchi before serving.
Final Thoughts
Asiago Chicken Gnocchi is a delightful dish that combines creamy flavors with tender chicken and fluffy gnocchi. It’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Feel free to customize by adding vegetables like bell peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for added color and nutrition!
Creamy Asiago Chicken Gnocchi
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Creamy Asiago Chicken Gnocchi is the ultimate comfort dish that brings together tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and vibrant spinach in a rich, cheesy sauce. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or special family gatherings. With just one skillet needed, cleanup is a breeze! The creamy Asiago cheese melds wonderfully with savory chicken and soft gnocchi, ensuring every bite is both satisfying and delicious.
Ingredients
- 3 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 16 oz potato gnocchi
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- ½ cup Asiago cheese (grated)
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cups chicken broth
- ½ cup half-and-half
- 1 medium shallot (diced)
- 1 teaspoon garlic (minced)
Instructions
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large non-stick skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Cook chicken for 8–10 minutes until done. Transfer to a plate.
- In the same skillet, add remaining butter and sauté shallot for 3–5 minutes. Stir in garlic for an additional minute.
- Whisk in flour; cook until golden. Gradually add chicken broth while whisking until thickened (3–5 minutes).
- Stir in half-and-half and gnocchi; cook for 5–7 minutes until tender.
- Add spinach and Asiago cheese; stir until combined and spinach wilts.
- Place cooked chicken on top of the gnocchi mixture and serve garnished with parsley.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 400g)
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
