Name: Asiago Chicken and Gnocchi Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 38 min
Cuisine: American
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

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines the deliciousness of crispy, pan-seared chicken with soft, pillowy gnocchi in a creamy sauce. The richness of the Asiago cheese and the slight bitterness of spinach balance out the flavors, creating a perfect harmony. It’s a complete meal that’s easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy evenings or special occasions when you want something comforting but impressive. Plus, it comes together in under 40 minutes!

Asiago Chicken and Gnocchi Recipe

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

Directions

Pat the chicken breasts dry and season evenly with kosher salt and black pepper.
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 the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (cooking time may vary depending on the size of the chicken breasts).
Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep warm.
In the same skillet, add the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the diced shallot and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until softened.
Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Sprinkle the flour over the shallot and garlic, whisking for about 1 minute until the flour is fully incorporated and slightly golden.
Gradually add the chicken broth, whisking constantly to combine and scraping up any browned bits from the skillet. Cook for 3-5 minutes or until the sauce has slightly thickened.
Add the half-and-half and uncooked gnocchi to the skillet. Stir to combine, ensuring the gnocchi is submerged in the sauce. Continue cooking for 5-7 minutes, or until the gnocchi is tender and cooked through.
Stir in the fresh spinach and grated Asiago cheese. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spinach has wilted and the cheese has fully melted into the sauce.
Remove the skillet from the heat and place the cooked chicken breasts on top of the gnocchi mixture.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 38 minutes
Servings: 4

Variations

Add Vegetables: For extra color and nutrients, add other vegetables like sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms.
Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free alternative for the butter and half-and-half, and swap the Asiago for a plant-based cheese.
Herb Twist: Add fresh basil or thyme to elevate the flavor further.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to bring back the creaminess. You can also microwave it, but be sure to stir occasionally to ensure even reheating.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Asiago?

Yes! You can substitute Parmesan, Pecorino Romano, or Gruyère for a different flavor profile.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the cooked chicken and gnocchi mixture for up to 3 months. Just ensure to reheat thoroughly when serving.

Can I use store-bought gnocchi for this recipe?

Yes, using store-bought gnocchi makes this dish even more convenient, and it will still taste amazing!

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

The sauce and gnocchi can be prepped ahead of time, but it’s best to cook the chicken fresh just before serving.

What can I serve with Asiago Chicken and Gnocchi?

A simple green salad or steamed vegetables would complement the dish well. A side of garlic bread would be a perfect pairing!

How do I pound the chicken to an even thickness?

Place the chicken between two pieces of plastic wrap or in a ziplock bag, then use a meat mallet to gently pound the chicken until it’s an even thickness, about ½ inch thick.

Can I make this recipe with chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs would work well in this recipe and add extra flavor and tenderness.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach can be used. Be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding it to the dish.

Can I cook the chicken in the oven instead of the skillet?

Yes, you can bake the chicken at 375°F for 20-25 minutes or until it reaches 165°F internally. Then, continue with the recipe as written.

Conclusion

This Asiago Chicken and Gnocchi dish is a quick, flavorful, and comforting meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and soft gnocchi come together in perfect harmony, offering a satisfying meal in under 40 minutes. Whether you’re serving it for a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress!