The Creamy Asiago Chicken and Gnocchi Recipe is a comforting and indulgent dish that combines tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a luxuriously cheesy sauce that will have you coming back for seconds. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between rich flavors and simple preparation, making it a fantastic go-to meal for busy weeknights or when you want to treat yourself to something truly special. The Asiago cheese adds a delightful nutty sharpness that elevates the creamy sauce, while the spinach brings a fresh pop of color and nutrition to the plate. Once you try this dish, it’s sure to become one of your favorite comfort foods to make and savor with loved ones.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet essential ingredients is the first step toward creating your stellar Creamy Asiago Chicken and Gnocchi Recipe. Each component plays an important role, whether it’s adding flavor, texture, or that irresistible creamy touch.
- Olive oil: The base for sautéing that gives a lovely golden sear on the chicken and adds depth of flavor.
- Chicken breasts: Thinly sliced for quick, even cooking and tender bites throughout the dish.
- Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that seasons the chicken perfectly and infuses the sauce with classic herb notes.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for bringing out the natural flavors and balancing the creaminess.
- Garlic: Freshly minced to create an aromatic foundation in the sauce.
- Baby spinach: Roughly chopped to add a bright pop of color and a touch of earthiness that cuts through the richness.
- Potato gnocchi: The soft, pillowy pasta that soaks up the creamy Asiago sauce magnificently.
- Chicken broth: Adds savory depth and helps create a luscious sauce base.
- Heavy cream: The key to achieving that smooth, velvety texture that coats every bite.
- Asiago cheese: Freshly grated for maximum flavor, creating a rich, nutty sauce that’s simply irresistible.
- Optional garnishes: Extra cheese, chopped parsley, and crushed red pepper flakes to personalize and brighten the dish.
How to Make Creamy Asiago Chicken and Gnocchi Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken to Golden Perfection
Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the thinly sliced chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for about 5 to 6 minutes per side until each piece turns a beautiful golden brown and is cooked through. This step locks in the juices and sets the stage for the flavor-packed sauce. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base with Garlic and Spinach
Lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the skillet, sautéing it for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned—this quick step releases those wonderful aromas. Then add the roughly chopped baby spinach and cook it briefly, just until it wilts. This not only softens the greens but also adds a fresh vibrant note that balances the creamy richness to come.
Step 3: Combine Gnocchi, Broth, and Cream for a Creamy Sauce
Next, stir in the potato gnocchi along with the chicken broth and heavy cream. Give everything a good mix to evenly combine the ingredients, then bring it to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it cook for 5 minutes. This allows the gnocchi to become tender and soak up the flavorful cream and broth mixture while thickening the sauce slightly.
Step 4: Stir in Asiago Cheese and Return Chicken
After simmering, stir in the freshly grated Asiago cheese while the sauce is still warm, letting it melt into a smooth, luscious mixture. This step is where the dish truly shines with its signature creamy Asiago flavor. Return the cooked chicken pieces to the skillet, stirring gently to coat them in the cheesy sauce. Allow everything to simmer together for an additional 2 to 3 minutes to make sure each bite is infused with rich, comforting taste.
Step 5: Final Seasoning and Serve
Finally, taste your creamy Asiago chicken and gnocchi and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. This last step ensures the perfect balance of flavors before serving. Your dish is now ready to be enjoyed hot, straight from the skillet!
How to Serve Creamy Asiago Chicken and Gnocchi Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a thoughtful garnish can take your Creamy Asiago Chicken and Gnocchi Recipe from delicious to show-stopping. Sprinkle a little extra freshly grated Asiago cheese on top to amplify that nutty, savory richness. A scattering of chopped parsley introduces a fresh herbal brightness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce. If you like a touch of heat, crushed red pepper flakes bring a subtle kick that complements the flavors perfectly without overwhelming.
Side Dishes
This creamy dish is quite filling on its own, but lighter sides can make the meal well-rounded. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can brighten the plate, balancing the richness with acidity and crunch. Roasted or steamed veggies like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans pair well, offering freshness and texture contrast. If you’re in the mood for bread, a warm, crusty baguette or garlic bread is perfect for mopping up every last bit of that heavenly sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
To make your presentation pop, try serving this recipe in rustic shallow bowls to showcase the creamy sauce coating the chicken and gnocchi. Garnish with colorful sprigs of parsley or basil leaves to add visual appeal. For a cozy gathering, individual cast iron skillets make a charming presentation and help keep the dish warm at the table. You could also layer the gnocchi and chicken in a beautiful serving dish, topped with a final sprinkle of Asiago cheese right before serving. Either way, it’s a meal that encourages indulgence and sharing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooked, place any leftover Creamy Asiago Chicken and Gnocchi Recipe in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it a convenient option for quick lunches or dinners. Keep in mind that the sauce may thicken in the fridge, but a gentle reheat with a splash of cream or broth will easily restore that creamy texture.
Freezing
While you can freeze leftovers, the texture of the gnocchi might soften slightly after thawing. If you choose to freeze the dish, portion it out into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to help preserve the flavors and consistency as much as possible.
Reheating
Reheat the dish gently on the stove over low to medium heat to avoid breaking the sauce. Stir frequently and add a little chicken broth or cream if the sauce needs loosening up. This careful reheating retains the luscious creaminess and keeps the chicken moist and tender. Microwaving is possible but be sure to stir halfway to prevent hot spots and separation.
FAQs
Can I use frozen gnocchi for this Creamy Asiago Chicken and Gnocchi Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen gnocchi works great in this recipe. Just add an extra minute or two to the cooking time to ensure they cook through completely and become tender in the sauce.
What can I substitute for Asiago cheese if I can’t find it?
If Asiago isn’t available, Parmesan or Pecorino Romano make excellent substitutes. They both offer a sharp, nutty flavor that complements the creamy sauce well.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
You can try substituting the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative and use a vegan cheese substitute, but the flavor profile will change. The creaminess and tangy bite of Asiago are key highlights of this recipe.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Adding crushed red pepper flakes as a garnish is an easy way to bring heat. You could also stir in some diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper into the sauce for more kick.
Can I prepare this recipe with chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used for extra juiciness and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they are thoroughly cooked and tender.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Creamy Asiago Chicken and Gnocchi Recipe that warms the soul and satisfies hunger with every bite. The harmonious blend of tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and that dreamy Asiago-infused sauce creates a meal that feels both luxurious and comforting at once. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe is a winner that you’ll want to have in your cooking rotation time and time again. Treat yourself to this delightful dish and watch it quickly become a beloved favorite!
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Creamy Asiago Chicken and Gnocchi Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This creamy Asiago chicken and gnocchi recipe features tender, seasoned chicken breasts cooked to golden perfection and simmered in a rich, flavorful sauce made with garlic, baby spinach, chicken broth, heavy cream, and freshly grated Asiago cheese. The comforting potato gnocchi soak up the creamy sauce, making a hearty and delicious meal perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (thinly sliced)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups baby spinach, roughly chopped
Gnocchi and Sauce
- 1 (16 oz) package potato gnocchi
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Asiago cheese
Optional Garnish
- Additional grated Asiago cheese
- Chopped parsley
- Crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the thinly sliced chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken for about 5–6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté garlic and spinach: Reduce the skillet heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the roughly chopped baby spinach and cook until wilted, approximately 1 minute.
- Simmer gnocchi in sauce: Add the potato gnocchi, chicken broth, and heavy cream to the skillet. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the gnocchi to cook and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Add cheese and combine: Stir in the freshly grated Asiago cheese until it melts smoothly into the sauce. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and coat it thoroughly with the creamy sauce. Let the dish simmer for an additional 2–3 minutes to meld flavors.
- Season and serve: Taste the dish and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, garnished with extra Asiago cheese, chopped parsley, and crushed red pepper flakes if desired.
Notes
- Thinly slicing the chicken breasts ensures quicker and even cooking.
- If you prefer a lighter sauce, substitute half of the heavy cream with milk, though the sauce will be less rich.
- Gnocchi can be replaced with cauliflower gnocchi for a lower-carb option.
- Adding crushed red pepper flakes provides a nice subtle heat but can be omitted for a milder flavor.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 2 days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
