Asiago Chicken Gnocchi

If you’re looking for a cozy dinner that feels special yet comes together quickly, then you’re in the right place! This Asiago Chicken Gnocchi is one of my absolute favorites. It’s creamy, comforting, and just bursting with flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you have family over, this dish never fails to impress. Plus, it’s made with simple ingredients that you likely already have on hand!

I love how easily this recipe comes together. The gnocchi cooks right in the rich sauce, soaking up all those delicious flavors. It’s a meal that will warm your heart and make your taste buds dance!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish is ready in under 40 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy texture and cheesy goodness of Asiago cheese.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily adjust the veggies or protein based on what you have in your kitchen.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: The combination of chicken, gnocchi, and creamy sauce makes it a delightful comfort food option.
• Make Ahead Option: Prepare the sauce ahead of time and just add the gnocchi when you’re ready to eat!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together beautifully to create a comforting dish that you’ll want to make again and again. Each item is wholesome, making this meal feel good to enjoy!

Main Ingredients

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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with the ingredients based on what you have or what you prefer.

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.
• Add more veggies: Bell peppers or sun-dried tomatoes would add some extra color and flavor.
• Change up the cheese: If Asiago isn’t your favorite, parmesan or mozzarella would work well too!
• Make it spicy: A pinch of red pepper flakes can give this dish a delightful kick.

How to Make Asiago Chicken Gnocchi

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by patting your chicken breasts dry and seasoning them evenly with kosher salt and black pepper. This step ensures that every bite is flavorful and juicy.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large non-stick skillet over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of butter. Once it’s melted and bubbly, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook them for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. It’s important to cook them fully for safety and tenderness.

Step 3: Make the Sauce Base

Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover it loosely with foil to keep warm. In that same skillet, add another 3 tablespoons of butter. When melted, toss in the diced shallot. Sauté until softened for about 3-5 minutes; this builds a lovely flavor base. Afterward, add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute—this brings out its aromatic qualities.

Step 4: Thicken It Up

Sprinkle flour over your shallots and garlic mixture while whisking constantly for about a minute until everything is well combined and slightly golden. Gradually pour in chicken broth while continuing to whisk; this helps scrape up any tasty browned bits from the bottom of the pan which adds depth to your sauce. Cook this mixture for about 3-5 minutes until thickened.

Step 5: Add Creamy Goodness

Next, stir in half-and-half along with uncooked gnocchi into the skillet. Make sure all of it is submerged in that luscious sauce! Continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes until the gnocchi becomes tender.

Step 6: Finish It Off

Finally, fold in fresh spinach along with grated Asiago cheese into your sauce. Cook until the spinach wilts down and the cheese melts beautifully into everything—this makes it irresistibly creamy!

Step 7: Serve

Remove from heat and place those lovely chicken breasts on top of your gnocchi mixture. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving! Enjoy every bite of this comforting Asiago Chicken Gnocchi!

Pro Tips for Making Asiago Chicken Gnocchi

Creating a delicious Asiago Chicken Gnocchi can be a breeze with just a few helpful tips!

• Pound the chicken breasts evenly: This ensures that they cook uniformly, preventing any dry spots while keeping the meat juicy and tender.
• Don’t rush the sauce: Allowing the sauce to thicken properly enhances the flavors and gives it that creamy consistency that coats the gnocchi beautifully.
• Use fresh spinach: Fresh spinach adds vibrant color and a wholesome flavor. It wilts perfectly into the sauce, making every bite enjoyable.
• Grate your own Asiago cheese: Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect meltability. Grating fresh cheese results in a smoother, creamier sauce.
• Taste as you go: Adjust seasonings based on your preference. This step lets you find that perfect balance of flavors before serving.

How to Serve Asiago Chicken Gnocchi

Serving Asiago Chicken Gnocchi beautifully can enhance your dining experience and impress your family or guests! Here are some ideas on how to present this delightful dish:

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Cracked black pepper: A light sprinkle of cracked black pepper adds an extra layer of flavor and sophistication to your plate.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce, making it a beloved classic alongside this creamy dish.
• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized provides a great balance of textures and flavors, complementing the richness of the gnocchi.
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing counterpoint to the hearty pasta.
• Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus brings both elegance and nutrition to your meal; its slight crunch pairs well with the creamy gnocchi.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to create an impressive meal that everyone will love! Enjoy every delicious bite of your Asiago Chicken Gnocchi!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Asiago Chicken Gnocchi recipe is fantastic for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy the delicious flavors throughout the week. Here’s how to store and reheat your leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

• Pour any remaining Asiago Chicken Gnocchi into an airtight container.
• Allow it to cool to room temperature before sealing.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the dish cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
• Label the container with the date for easy reference.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Note that the texture may slightly change upon reheating.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat in a non-stick skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I use different cheese in Asiago Chicken Gnocchi?

Absolutely! While Asiago adds a unique flavor, feel free to substitute with Parmesan or Gruyère for a different twist on this creamy dish.

How long does it take to prepare Asiago Chicken Gnocchi?

The total time for preparing Asiago Chicken Gnocchi is about 38 minutes, making it perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner option.

Can I use frozen gnocchi in this recipe?

Yes! Frozen gnocchi works well. Just add them directly to the sauce without thawing and adjust the cooking time as needed until tender.

What can I serve with Asiago Chicken Gnocchi?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables, providing a fresh contrast to the creamy sauce.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this comforting Asiago Chicken Gnocchi! It’s one of those recipes that warms your heart and fills your home with delightful aromas. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special gathering, this dish is sure to impress. Give it a try, and don’t hesitate to share your experience—I’d love to hear how it turns out for you!