If you’re craving a comforting and cheesy meal that feels both indulgent and homey, this Asiago Chicken Gnocchi Recipe is just what you need. Tender chicken breasts meet pillowy potato gnocchi, all enveloped in a luscious Asiago cream sauce with a hint of garlic and fresh baby spinach for a pop of color and nutrition. It’s a beautiful blend of flavors and textures that’s surprisingly simple to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner or when you want to impress without stress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on straightforward ingredients that come together to create a rich, creamy, and flavorful dish. Each component plays its role: from the savory chicken and silky gnocchi to the sharp Asiago cheese and fragrant shallots, making this dish a delightful experience from start to finish.
- 3 boneless skinless chicken breasts: Opt for even thickness to ensure they cook uniformly and stay juicy.
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the chicken and other ingredients.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds mild heat and depth to the seasoning.
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided: Used for cooking chicken and building a rich sauce base while keeping control over saltiness.
- 1 medium shallot, diced (about â…“ cup): Provides a subtle sweetness and a delicate onion flavor.
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with warmth and aromatic complexity.
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Acts as a thickening agent for the creamy sauce.
- 2 cups chicken broth: Adds savory body to the sauce with a clean, meaty flavor.
- ½ cup half-and-half: Lends the sauce a luscious creaminess without being too heavy.
- 1 package (16 ounces) potato gnocchi, uncooked: The star of the dish with its soft, pillowy texture that soaks up the sauce beautifully.
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach: Brings a fresh, slightly earthy contrast and vibrant green to the dish.
- ½ cup Asiago cheese, finely grated: Offers a nutty, sharp flavor that ties the entire sauce together.
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish: Adds a burst of color and freshness to finish the plate.
How to Make Asiago Chicken Gnocchi Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken
Start by patting your chicken breasts dry with a paper towel—this helps achieve a nice sear. Season them evenly with kosher salt and black pepper. This simple seasoning forms the flavor base that complements the creamy sauce later on.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken to Perfection
Heat part of the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken breasts until golden brown and cooked through, usually around 5-7 minutes per side depending on thickness. Transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest while you prepare the sauce, ensuring juiciness inside.
Step 3: Build the Flavor with Shallots, Garlic, and Roux
In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and sauté the diced shallot until translucent and fragrant. Stir in minced garlic for about 30 seconds. Then sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly to create a smooth roux; this will thicken the sauce to a silky consistency.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce and Cook the Gnocchi
Slowly whisk in chicken broth to avoid lumps and let the mixture come to a simmer. Add the half-and-half for creaminess, then toss in the uncooked gnocchi. Cook until the gnocchi float and become tender, about 3-5 minutes. This method lets the gnocchi absorb those delicious sauce flavors.
Step 5: Finish with Spinach, Asiago, and Chicken
Stir fresh baby spinach into the hot gnocchi mixture just until wilted—this adds brightness and a nice textural contrast. Next, fold in the finely grated Asiago cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce and add that signature nutty richness. Finally, nestle the cooked chicken breasts on top, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve warm.
How to Serve Asiago Chicken Gnocchi Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh parsley as a garnish is the perfect finishing touch. It lifts the dish visually with vibrant green hues and imparts a subtle herbaceous note that cuts through the richness. You could also sprinkle a tiny bit more Asiago cheese on top for extra indulgence.
Side Dishes
This Asiago Chicken Gnocchi Recipe stands beautifully on its own, but pairing it with a crisp side salad or roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts adds balance. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is also excellent for soaking up any leftover sauce from your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, serve the gnocchi and chicken in shallow bowls, showcasing the creamy sauce and spinach. Drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil or a lemon-infused oil for a bright finish. You can also place the chicken breast sliced atop the gnocchi for an elegant layered presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld even more overnight, making it an excellent next-day meal or lunch option.
Freezing
While fresh is best for gnocchi dishes, you can freeze leftover Asiago Chicken Gnocchi in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating to preserve texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently over low heat in a skillet or microwave to prevent the sauce from breaking. Add a splash of chicken broth or half-and-half if the sauce thickens too much during storage, stirring until warmed through and creamy again.
FAQs
Can I use other cheeses besides Asiago?
Absolutely! While Asiago lends a distinct sharpness and nuttiness, Parmesan or Pecorino Romano can work well too. Just keep the quantity the same to maintain the creamy texture and flavor intensity.
Is it necessary to cook the gnocchi in the sauce?
Cooking gnocchi directly in the sauce absorbs all the flavors and helps thicken the sauce naturally. It’s a key step to achieving the perfect texture and rich taste.
Can I substitute chicken breasts with another protein?
Yes, chicken thighs are a great alternative if you prefer darker meat with more flavor and moisture. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure they are fully cooked.
What can I do if I don’t have shallots?
If shallots aren’t on hand, you can use a small sweet onion or a mild yellow onion as a substitute. Just make sure to sauté it gently to avoid overpowering the dish.
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
The traditional recipe uses all-purpose flour and gnocchi that likely contain gluten. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour and gnocchi made from gluten-free ingredients, which are available at many specialty stores.
Final Thoughts
This Asiago Chicken Gnocchi Recipe has become one of my absolute favorites because it’s rich in flavor yet so easy to prepare. It’s the kind of dish that feels special enough for guests but cozy enough for everyday meals. I can’t wait for you to try it and enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite as much as I do!
