Asiago Chicken Gnocchi

If you’re looking for a cozy and creamy dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Asiago Chicken Gnocchi is just what you need! This recipe has become a favorite in my home because it combines tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and rich flavors into one delightful meal. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special family gathering, this dish brings everyone together at the table with smiles all around.

What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients and quick cooking time, you can create something truly special without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, the creamy sauce with Asiago cheese adds a luscious touch that makes every bite irresistible!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: You can whip up this dish in under 40 minutes—perfect for those busy evenings.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the comforting flavors of chicken and gnocchi.
• Versatile: It’s easy to customize with your favorite veggies or proteins to suit your taste.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of Asiago cheese and fresh spinach creates a deliciously creamy sauce that’s hard to resist.
• Great Leftovers: This dish keeps well in the fridge, making it ideal for meal prep or next-day lunches.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is half the fun! For this Asiago Chicken Gnocchi, you’ll need items that are probably already in your pantry or easily found at your local grocery store. Let’s take a look:

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
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to make it your own with these tasty variations:

• Swap the protein: Instead of chicken, try using shrimp or diced turkey for a different twist.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some cherry tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Make it lighter: Substitute half-and-half with low-fat milk or a dairy-free alternative for a lighter version.
• Cheese swap: If you can’t find Asiago cheese, Parmesan works beautifully as an alternative.

How to Make Asiago Chicken Gnocchi

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry and season them evenly with kosher salt and black pepper. This step is essential to ensure that every bite is flavorful. In a large non-stick skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. This ensures perfectly cooked chicken that’s juicy and tender!

Step 2: Create the Sauce Base

After transferring the cooked chicken to a plate (and covering it loosely with foil to keep warm), use that same skillet to build your sauce! Add the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter and let it melt. Then add the diced shallot and cook until softened—this usually takes about 3-5 minutes. The shallots bring sweetness into the dish while adding depth of flavor.

Step 3: Thicken Your Sauce

Next up is adding garlic; cook it for about 1 minute until fragrant. Now sprinkle flour over your shallots and garlic mixture while whisking continuously for about one minute—this helps create that lovely roux which will thicken your sauce beautifully! Gradually pour in the chicken broth while whisking constantly. Scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet; they hold great flavor! Cook until slightly thickened—around 3-5 minutes should do.

Step 4: Add Gnocchi

Now comes the fun part! Stir in half-and-half along with uncooked gnocchi. Make sure each piece is submerged in that luscious sauce. Cook everything together for about 5-7 minutes until your gnocchi are tender and cooked through. This step allows them to soak up all those wonderful flavors!

Step 5: Final Touches

Stir in fresh spinach and grated Asiago cheese; give it another couple of minutes until the spinach has wilted and cheese has melted into that dreamy sauce. Finally, remove from heat and place those beautiful chicken breasts right on top of your gnocchi mixture. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Enjoy every bite of this delightful Asiago Chicken Gnocchi! It’s sure to become a cherished recipe in your home too!

Pro Tips for Making Asiago Chicken Gnocchi

Creating a delicious Asiago Chicken Gnocchi is all about attention to detail and a few helpful tricks! Here are some pro tips to elevate your dish:

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and quality Asiago cheese make a noticeable difference in flavor. Fresh ingredients enhance the overall taste and freshness of the dish, giving it that homemade feel.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: When cooking the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the skillet. This ensures even cooking and a beautiful golden crust. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches for optimal results.
• Whisk vigorously: When adding the flour to the shallots and garlic, whisk vigorously to avoid lumps. This will help create a smooth, creamy sauce that coats the gnocchi perfectly.
• Taste as you go: Before serving, always taste your sauce and adjust seasoning if needed. Adding just a pinch of salt or pepper at this stage can elevate flavors significantly.
• Let it rest before serving: After plating, allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps meld all those lovely flavors together, making each bite even more enjoyable!

How to Serve Asiago Chicken Gnocchi

Presentation matters when it comes to enjoying your home-cooked meal! Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful dish:

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: Adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Cracked black pepper: A sprinkle adds an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal.
• Extra grated Asiago cheese: For cheese lovers, an additional sprinkle right before serving enhances the cheesy goodness!

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate; its buttery crunch complements the creamy gnocchi beautifully.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers add a vibrant touch and balance out the richness of the gnocchi.
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty pasta.
• Steamed asparagus: This elegant side is not only nutritious but also adds color and crunch to your meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Asiago Chicken Gnocchi will not only be delicious but also beautifully presented for any occasion! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Asiago Chicken Gnocchi recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, ensuring you have a delicious and comforting dish ready to go when hunger strikes.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.
• For best results, consider separating the chicken from the gnocchi mixture before freezing.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
• Stir occasionally until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Asiago Chicken Gnocchi!

Can I use other types of cheese instead of Asiago?

Yes! While Asiago adds a lovely flavor, you can substitute it with Parmesan or pecorino cheese for a similar result.

How do I make Asiago Chicken Gnocchi gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free flour and potato gnocchi. These substitutions will keep the dish delicious and safe for those avoiding gluten.

What is the best way to prepare chicken for Asiago Chicken Gnocchi?

Pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness ensures they cook evenly and stay juicy. Seasoning with salt and pepper enhances their flavor beautifully.

Can I add vegetables to my Asiago Chicken Gnocchi?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini along with the spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Asiago Chicken Gnocchi as much as I do! It’s creamy, comforting, and perfect for any occasion—from weeknight dinners to special gatherings. Remember, cooking is all about sharing love through food, so gather your loved ones around the table and dig into this wonderful dish. Happy cooking!