Asiago Chicken Gnocchi

Creamy Asiago Chicken Gnocchi is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a rich, cheesy sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick family dinner or a special occasion. With its comforting flavors and easy preparation, you’re bound to impress your guests or enjoy a cozy night in.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep and 25 minutes of cooking time, you can serve a delicious meal in under an hour.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of Asiago cheese and fresh spinach creates a creamy sauce that elevates this dish to gourmet status.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests, this recipe fits seamlessly into any occasion.
• Kid-Friendly Ingredients: With familiar flavors and textures, even picky eaters will love this hearty meal.
• One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup is required as everything cooks in one skillet, making it easy to prepare and enjoy.

Tools and Preparation

To make the process smooth, gather your kitchen tools before you start cooking. Having everything ready will help you focus on creating the perfect meal.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick skillet: Ensures easy cooking and prevents sticking, which is vital for achieving that creamy sauce without any mess.
• Whisk: Helps incorporate ingredients smoothly, especially when combining the flour with the broth to avoid lumps.

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 for garnish

How to Make Asiago Chicken Gnocchi

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season them 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 butter.
2. Once melted, place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet.
3. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
4. 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 the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter.
2. Once melted, add diced shallot. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes until softened.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Sprinkle flour over shallots and garlic; whisk for about 1 minute until slightly golden.
5. Gradually pour in chicken broth while whisking constantly to combine. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
6. Cook for about 3-5 minutes until sauce slightly thickens.

Step 4: Add Gnocchi and Spinach

1. Stir in half-and-half and uncooked gnocchi into the skillet.
2. Ensure gnocchi is submerged in sauce; cook for another 5-7 minutes until tender.
3. Add fresh spinach and grated Asiago cheese; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until spinach wilts and cheese melts.

Step 5: Serve Your Dish

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

Enjoy your delicious Asiago Chicken Gnocchi!

How to Serve Asiago Chicken Gnocchi

Asiago Chicken Gnocchi is a delicious and creamy dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Family-Style Serving

• Serve the gnocchi directly from the skillet for a rustic, family-style meal. This allows everyone to help themselves and enjoy the dish together.

Individual Bowls

• For a more formal presentation, portion the Asiago Chicken Gnocchi into individual bowls. Garnish with extra parsley and grated Asiago cheese for an elegant touch.

Add a Fresh Salad

• Pair your dish with a fresh side salad. A simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the gnocchi beautifully.

Crusty Bread on the Side

• Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up any remaining sauce. This adds a delightful texture contrast and makes the meal even more satisfying.

Wine Pairing Suggestions

• Although this recipe avoids alcohol in cooking, consider offering non-alcoholic wine or sparkling juice as a refreshing drink option alongside your meal.

How to Perfect Asiago Chicken Gnocchi

To achieve the best results with your Asiago Chicken Gnocchi, follow these helpful tips for perfecting this dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh spinach and high-quality Asiago cheese for maximum flavor.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce before serving and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
• Cook Gnocchi Separately: For an even better texture, consider boiling the gnocchi separately before adding them to the sauce.
• Don’t Overcook Chicken: Ensure chicken is cooked just until it reaches 165°F to keep it juicy and tender.
• Garnish Generously: Don’t skimp on garnishing with fresh parsley; it adds color and freshness to each serving.
• Experiment with Greens: Feel free to substitute spinach with other leafy greens like kale or arugula for different flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Asiago Chicken Gnocchi

Asiago Chicken Gnocchi pairs well with various side dishes that enhance its creamy richness. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Roasted Broccoli: Toss broccoli florets in olive oil, garlic, and seasoning before roasting until tender for a flavorful side.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crispness and tanginess that contrasts nicely with the creamy gnocchi.
3. Sautéed Green Beans: Lightly sautéed green beans seasoned with lemon zest provide a refreshing crunch alongside your meal.
4. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a vibrant and tasty complement.
5. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sauté zucchini noodles add a low-carb option that pairs well without overpowering flavors.
6. Herb Quinoa: Fluffy quinoa cooked with herbs offers a nutty flavor that balances well with rich sauces.
7. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized add sweetness and depth to your plate.
8. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil makes for an appetizing starter before diving into the main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Asiago Chicken Gnocchi, it’s easy to overlook some key steps that can make a big difference in your dish’s quality. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the seasoning – Not seasoning the chicken properly can result in bland flavors. Always season your chicken evenly with salt and pepper before cooking.

• Overcooking the gnocchi – Overcooked gnocchi can become mushy. Make sure to follow the cooking time closely for tender, perfectly cooked gnocchi.

• Neglecting to scrape the skillet – Failing to scrape up browned bits from the skillet when adding broth can lead to less flavorful sauce. Remember to whisk constantly and incorporate those flavors.

• Using low-quality cheese – Low-quality cheese won’t melt well and may affect the sauce’s creaminess. Opt for a good-quality Asiago cheese for the best results.

• Not letting the sauce thicken – Rushing through the thickening process can leave you with a watery sauce. Allow sufficient time for the sauce to thicken before adding other ingredients.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Asiago Chicken Gnocchi

• Transfer cooled leftovers to freezer-safe containers.
• Seal tightly and label with a date.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating Asiago Chicken Gnocchi

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in a baking dish covered with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and reheat in short intervals, stirring in between until hot.

• Stovetop – Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Add a splash of broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Asiago Chicken Gnocchi:

What is Asiago Chicken Gnocchi?

Asiago Chicken Gnocchi is a creamy pasta dish made with chicken breasts, potato gnocchi, fresh spinach, and rich Asiago cheese.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like Parmesan or Gouda if you prefer different flavors. Just ensure they melt well.

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

To create a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with mushrooms or zucchini and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes! You can cook everything except for the final addition of spinach and cheese, then store it. Reheat before serving and add fresh ingredients at that time.

How do I know when my chicken is cooked?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Using a meat thermometer ensures perfect doneness every time.

Final Thoughts

Asiago Chicken Gnocchi is not just a delightful dish; it offers versatility for any occasion—from quick family dinners to elegant gatherings. The creamy sauce paired with tender chicken and pillowy gnocchi makes this meal irresistible. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or substituting proteins based on what you have on hand. Enjoy making this comforting recipe!