Asiago Chicken Gnocchi

Creamy Asiago Chicken Gnocchi is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and vibrant spinach in a rich Asiago cheese sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick family dinner or an elegant meal for special occasions. With its comforting flavors and creamy texture, it stands out as a delicious option that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This dish can be on your table in just 38 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of Asiago cheese and fresh ingredients creates a rich, satisfying sauce that elevates the entire meal.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or substituting proteins to fit your family’s taste.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the creamy gnocchi and tender chicken, making it a surefire hit at the dinner table.
• Elegant Presentation: Garnished with fresh parsley, this dish looks beautiful and is perfect for impressing guests.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, ensure you have all necessary tools ready to make preparing Asiago Chicken Gnocchi seamless.

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 and makes cleaning up easier.
• Whisk: Ensures smooth mixing of ingredients for the sauce without lumps.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the best flavor balance in your dish.

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
• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided

For the Sauce

• 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

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.
2. In a large non-stick skillet over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of the butter. Once melted, add the chicken breasts. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through until an internal temperature of 165°F is reached.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

1. Transfer cooked chicken to a plate; cover loosely with foil to keep warm.
2. In the same skillet, add remaining 3 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add diced shallot. Cook until softened (about 3-5 minutes).
3. Add minced garlic; cook for an additional minute.
4. Sprinkle flour over shallot and garlic; whisk for about 1 minute until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Gradually add chicken broth while whisking constantly to combine. Cook for 3-5 minutes or until slightly thickened.
2. Stir in half-and-half and uncooked gnocchi, ensuring it’s submerged in sauce. Continue cooking for 5-7 minutes until gnocchi is tender.

Step 4: Finish the Dish

1. Stir in fresh spinach and grated Asiago cheese; cook until spinach wilts (2-3 minutes).
2. Remove from heat; place cooked chicken on top of gnocchi mixture.
3. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

With these simple steps, you’ll create a delicious plate of Asiago Chicken Gnocchi that everyone will rave about! Enjoy your meal!

How to Serve Asiago Chicken Gnocchi

Asiago Chicken Gnocchi is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavor and presentation. Whether it’s a family dinner or a special occasion, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Pair with Fresh Bread

• Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. A baguette or focaccia works beautifully.

Add a Green Salad

• A light green salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a vinaigrette dressing complements the richness of the dish. It adds freshness and balances the flavors.

Offer Garlic Bread

• Crispy garlic bread is an excellent side for those who love bold flavors. The garlicky crunch pairs perfectly with the creamy gnocchi.

Include Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted seasonal vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus provide a colorful and nutritious addition to your plate.

Top with Extra Cheese

• For cheese lovers, consider garnishing with additional grated Asiago or Parmesan cheese right before serving. It adds an extra layer of flavor.

Serve with Wine

• A glass of white wine, like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, enhances the dining experience. The acidity cuts through the creaminess of the dish beautifully.

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How to Perfect Asiago Chicken Gnocchi

To achieve the best results with your Asiago Chicken Gnocchi, follow these simple tips for perfection.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh chicken and produce will enhance flavor and texture.
• Ensure even cooking: Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
• Whisk constantly: When adding broth to the skillet, whisk continuously to prevent lumps in your sauce.
• Don’t overcook gnocchi: Keep an eye on the gnocchi; they should float when done. Overcooking can make them mushy.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go! Seasoning adjustments can elevate the overall flavor profile.
• Garnish generously: Don’t skip on fresh parsley or extra cheese; they add visual appeal and flavor depth.

Best Side Dishes for Asiago Chicken Gnocchi

Complementing your Asiago Chicken Gnocchi with well-chosen side dishes can create a memorable dining experience. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in creamy Caesar dressing makes for a classic pairing.
2. Grilled Asparagus: Simple grilled asparagus drizzled with olive oil adds a smoky flavor that balances the dish.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides color and nutrients while keeping it healthy.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes contrasts nicely with the savory gnocchi.
5. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing bite.
6. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and garlic is perfect for making use of seasonal ingredients.
7. Zucchini Noodles: Light and low-carb zucchini noodles serve as a great alternative side that won’t overpower the main dish.
8. Herbed Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf flavored with herbs rounds out the meal without overshadowing it.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Asiago Chicken Gnocchi, even small errors can impact the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always ensure that your chicken breasts are evenly seasoned with salt and pepper before cooking.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken for too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for perfect juiciness.
• Not whisking the flour properly: If the flour is not whisked in thoroughly, it can clump up and ruin the sauce’s texture. Make sure to whisk continuously until the flour is fully incorporated and slightly golden.
• Ignoring gnocchi cooking instructions: Uncooked gnocchi may take longer than expected to become tender. Follow package instructions closely and check for doneness during cooking.
• Using low-quality cheese: Substituting low-quality cheese will affect flavor. Always opt for freshly grated Asiago cheese for a richer taste in your dish.
• Forgetting to garnish: A lack of garnish can make your dish look unappealing. Don’t skip the fresh parsley; it adds color and enhances presentation.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Asiago Chicken Gnocchi

• Place cooled portions in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Asiago Chicken Gnocchi

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between each, until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Asiago Chicken Gnocchi that might help you while cooking this delightful dish.

What is Asiago Chicken Gnocchi?

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

Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?

Yes! Frozen gnocchi can be used directly without thawing. Just adjust the cooking time as needed until they are tender.

How can I customize my Asiago Chicken Gnocchi?

Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition. You can also substitute other cheeses if desired.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well and can be portioned out for quick meals throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Asiago Chicken Gnocchi is a versatile recipe perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Its creamy sauce and rich flavors are bound to impress anyone at your table. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients or add seasonal veggies! Enjoy making this comforting dish time and again!