Asiago Chicken Gnocchi

Creamy Asiago Chicken Gnocchi with spinach in a rich sauce is a delightful dish that’s perfect for various occasions, from quick family dinners to special celebrations. The combination of tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and flavorful Asiago cheese makes this meal stand out. It’s not only delicious but also easy to prepare, ensuring that you can whip up a satisfying dish without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time and 25 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a delightful meal on the table in under an hour.
• Flavor-Packed: The creamy sauce enriched with Asiago cheese adds a burst of flavor that will impress your family and guests alike.
• Versatile Dish: This recipe is adaptable; feel free to add your favorite vegetables or substitute the chicken with turkey for variety.
• Comfort Food: The combination of gnocchi and creamy sauce makes this dish incredibly comforting, perfect for any day of the week.
• Impressive Presentation: Garnished with fresh parsley, this dish not only tastes great but looks beautiful too!

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Below are some tools that will help you create this delightful dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick skillet
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick skillet: Prevents food from sticking, making it easier to cook the chicken evenly and clean up afterward.
• Whisk: Ensures that sauces are well combined without lumps, especially when mixing flour into the butter mixture.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements lead to consistent results, crucial for achieving that perfect creamy sauce.

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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 Mixture

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

For Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

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:
1. Add 2 tablespoons of butter.
2. Once melted, add the chicken breasts.
3. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through until fully cooked (internal temperature reaches 165°F).
4. Transfer cooked chicken to a plate and cover loosely with foil.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet:
1. Add remaining 3 tablespoons of butter until melted.
2. Add diced shallot; cook for about 3-5 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in minced garlic; cook for an additional minute.
4. Sprinkle flour over shallot mixture; whisk for about 1 minute until golden.
5. Gradually add chicken broth while whisking constantly; scrape up browned bits from skillet.
6. Cook for 3-5 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Add Cream and Gnocchi

Stir in half-and-half and uncooked gnocchi:
1. Ensure gnocchi is submerged in sauce.
2. Continue cooking for 5-7 minutes until gnocchi is tender.

Step 5: Finish with Spinach and Cheese

Add fresh spinach and grated Asiago cheese:
1. Cook for 2-3 minutes until spinach wilts and cheese melts into sauce.

Step 6: Serve

Remove from heat:
1. Place cooked chicken on top of gnocchi mixture.
2. 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 rich and creamy dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• A light, fresh salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette can balance the richness of the gnocchi.

Serve with Garlic Bread

• Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce. Toast slices of bread with garlic butter for extra flavor.

Add Grated Cheese on Top

• Consider topping your dish with more grated Asiago cheese or another hard cheese for an added depth of flavor.

Accompany with Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers make a colorful and nutritious side that complements the dish well.

Include a Light Wine Pairing

• While avoiding alcohol, consider offering sparkling water with lemon or a refreshing fruit spritzer to cleanse the palate between bites.

How to Perfect Asiago Chicken Gnocchi

To achieve the best results when preparing Asiago Chicken Gnocchi, keep these tips in mind.

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh spinach and quality chicken will elevate your dish’s flavor profile.
• Pound chicken evenly – Ensure your chicken breasts are pounded to an even thickness for consistent cooking.
• Don’t overcook gnocchi – Cook gnocchi until just tender; overcooking can make them mushy.
• Whisk continuously – When adding broth to the skillet, whisk constantly to avoid lumps in your sauce.
• Taste as you go – Adjust seasoning at each step for a perfectly balanced dish.
• Garnish generously – A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and freshness right before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Asiago Chicken Gnocchi

Pairing side dishes with Asiago Chicken Gnocchi can enhance your meal’s overall experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Caesar Salad
   A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and creaminess with its romaine lettuce and creamy dressing.

2. Steamed Broccoli
   Tender steamed broccoli provides nutrition and color, balancing the richness of the main dish.

3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   Caramelized Brussels sprouts bring a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with creamy sauces.

4. Caprese Salad
   Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes create a refreshing contrast that complements the heaviness of the gnocchi.

5. Baked Sweet Potatoes
   Their natural sweetness adds an interesting flavor dimension while being easy to prepare alongside the main dish.

6. Zucchini Noodles
   For a lighter option, serve zucchini noodles tossed in olive oil as a low-carb alternative that complements the flavors well.

7. Grilled Asparagus
   Grilled asparagus offers a smoky flavor that pairs nicely with the creamy sauce of the gnocchi.

8. Herbed Quinoa
   Fluffy quinoa cooked with herbs can add texture and is an excellent source of protein to round out your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Asiago Chicken Gnocchi, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Avoiding these will help you create a delicious dish every time.

• Skipping the seasoning – Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to season evenly with salt and pepper before cooking.
• Overcooking the chicken – Cooking the chicken for too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F without overcooking.
• Not stirring enough – Failing to stir the sauce and gnocchi can cause them to stick or burn. Stir occasionally while cooking to maintain an even consistency.
• Ignoring the thickness – If the sauce is too thin, it won’t cling well to the gnocchi. Allow it to thicken properly by cooking longer after adding broth.
• Forgetting about garnishing – Skipping fresh parsley as a garnish can make your dish look less appealing. Always add a sprinkle of fresh herbs for color and flavor.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Asiago Chicken Gnocchi

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Asiago Chicken Gnocchi

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes) on medium power, stirring between intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Asiago Chicken Gnocchi?

Asiago Chicken Gnocchi is a creamy pasta dish made with tender chicken, potato gnocchi, and rich Asiago cheese sauce, often enhanced with spinach.

How do I make Asiago Chicken Gnocchi vegetarian?

To make this dish vegetarian, simply replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or another vegetable and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen gnocchi; just add extra cooking time as needed when boiling or sautéing them in the sauce.

How do I store leftover Asiago Chicken Gnocchi?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 2 months for later enjoyment.

Final Thoughts

Asiago Chicken Gnocchi is a delightful blend of flavors that makes it perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions. This versatile dish allows for customization – feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini based on your preferences. Enjoy trying out this creamy recipe!