Asiago Chicken Gnocchi

Creamy Asiago Chicken Gnocchi is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and a rich, cheesy sauce. This recipe is perfect for family dinners or special occasions, offering a wonderful balance of flavor and comfort. The combination of Asiago cheese and fresh spinach makes this dish not only delicious but also visually appealing. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll impress your guests or family without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This dish can be on the table in just 38 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Rich and Creamy Flavor: The blend of Asiago cheese and half-and-half creates a luxurious sauce that enhances every bite.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this recipe by adding vegetables or swapping out the chicken for another protein.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the comforting flavors and textures of this dish.
• Perfect for Special Occasions: Impress your guests with this gourmet meal that feels indulgent yet is simple to make.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smoother, having the right tools is essential. These tools will help you create the best Asiago Chicken Gnocchi with ease.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick skillet
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick skillet: This allows for easy cooking of chicken and smooth sauce preparation without sticking.
• Whisk: Perfect for combining ingredients smoothly, especially when making sauces.

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 & Greens

• 1 package (16 ounces) potato gnocchi, uncooked
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach
• ½ cup Asiago cheese, finely grated

Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

How to Make Asiago Chicken Gnocchi

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken breasts dry and season evenly with kosher salt and black pepper.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. In a large non-stick skillet over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of the butter.
2. Once melted, add the chicken breasts. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through until an internal temperature of 165°F is reached.
3. Transfer cooked chicken to a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep warm.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add remaining 3 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add diced shallot.
2. Cook while stirring frequently until softened (about 3-5 minutes). Add minced garlic; cook for an additional minute.
3. Sprinkle flour over shallot and garlic; whisk for about 1 minute until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Combine Broth & Cream

1. Gradually add chicken broth while whisking constantly to combine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom.
2. Cook for 3-5 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
3. Stir in half-and-half along with uncooked gnocchi; ensure they are submerged in sauce.

Step 5: Add Spinach & Cheese

1. Continue cooking gnocchi for 5-7 minutes or until tender.
2. Stir in fresh spinach and grated Asiago cheese; cook for about 2-3 minutes until spinach wilts and cheese melts.

Step 6: Final Touches

1. Remove skillet from heat; place cooked chicken on top of gnocchi mixture.
2. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving immediately.

Now you have a delicious recipe that showcases how easy it is to prepare Asiago Chicken Gnocchi! Enjoy your meal!

How to Serve Asiago Chicken Gnocchi

Asiago Chicken Gnocchi is a delightful dish that blends creamy sauce, tender chicken, and soft gnocchi. To elevate your dining experience, consider these serving suggestions that complement the rich flavors of this meal.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with arugula, spinach, and a zesty vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dish.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and Caesar dressing add a classic touch to your meal.

Add Garlic Bread

• Garlic Knots: Soft and chewy knots brushed with garlic butter provide a perfect side for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Toasted Baguette: Slices of toasted baguette with garlic spread are great for dipping into the sauce.

Serve with Roasted Vegetables

• Seasonal Roasted Veggies: A mix of roasted zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots adds color and nutrition to your plate.
• Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts offer a crunchy contrast to the softness of the gnocchi.

Include a Touch of Wine

• White Wine: A chilled glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs nicely with the creaminess of the Asiago cheese.
• Sparkling Water: For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with lemon serves as a refreshing palate cleanser.

How to Perfect Asiago Chicken Gnocchi

To achieve the best results with Asiago Chicken Gnocchi, follow these handy tips that ensure a delicious outcome every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken breasts and baby spinach enhance flavor compared to frozen alternatives.
• Pound Chicken Evenly: Ensuring an even thickness allows the chicken to cook uniformly and remain juicy.
• Don’t Overcook Gnocchi: Keep an eye on cooking times; overcooked gnocchi can become mushy.
• Whisk Constantly: When adding broth, whisk continuously to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth sauce.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go; you might want extra salt or pepper depending on your preference.
• Garnish Generously: Fresh parsley not only adds color but also enhances flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Asiago Chicken Gnocchi

Complement your Asiago Chicken Gnocchi with these delicious side dishes that will round out your meal perfectly.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side dish.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides crunch and bright color while adding nutrients.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing contrast.
4. Sautéed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed in olive oil bring freshness to your plate.
5. Zucchini Noodles: Light spiralized zucchini noodles tossed in olive oil offer a low-carb alternative alongside gnocchi.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can add crunch and balance out the richness of Asiago Chicken Gnocchi.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Asiago Chicken Gnocchi, it’s easy to make a few common errors that can affect the final dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper before cooking.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Not whisking enough: When adding flour, not whisking properly can cause lumps in the sauce. Make sure to whisk continuously until it’s fully incorporated.
• Cooking gnocchi too long: Overcooked gnocchi can become mushy. Follow the package instructions and taste for doneness before removing from heat.
• Ignoring sauce consistency: If the sauce is too thick or thin, it can alter the dish’s texture. Adjust with more broth or half-and-half as needed while cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking.
• Properly stored, it will last for up to 3 days.

Freezing Asiago Chicken Gnocchi

• Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• Freeze within 2 hours for best quality.
• It’s best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Asiago Chicken Gnocchi

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and bake in a covered dish for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes) on medium power, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth or half-and-half if necessary to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Asiago Chicken Gnocchi:

What is Asiago Chicken Gnocchi?

Asiago Chicken Gnocchi is a creamy pasta dish featuring tender chicken, potato gnocchi, fresh spinach, and rich Asiago cheese.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes! If you don’t have Asiago cheese, you can substitute with Parmesan or Romano for a similar flavor profile.

How can I customize my Asiago Chicken Gnocchi?

Feel free to add vegetables like sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition. You can also switch up proteins by using shrimp or sausage.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish holds up well in storage and makes for great leftovers throughout the week.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free gnocchi and adjust the flour accordingly to make this recipe gluten-free while still enjoying its deliciousness!

Final Thoughts

Asiago Chicken Gnocchi is not just a delightful main course; it’s also versatile enough for various occasions. This creamy dish is sure to impress family and friends alike. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or sides. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!