Asiago Chicken & Gnocchi

$- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces - 1 cup fresh or frozen gnocchi - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 cup grated Asiago cheese - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 cup fresh spinach - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning - Salt and black pepper to taste - Fresh basil leaves for garnish These ingredients make up the heart of the dish. Fresh ingredients bring out the best flavors. For example, using fresh spinach adds vibrant color and nutrition. The Asiago cheese offers a rich, nutty flavor that elevates your dish. To cook this dish, you will need a few key tools: - Large skillet - Sharp knife - Cutting board - Wooden spoon - Measuring cups These tools help you prepare the chicken and sauce with ease. A large skillet allows for even cooking. A sharp knife ensures clean cuts for the chicken. You might also find a garlic press handy for mincing the garlic quickly. Using the right tools makes cooking enjoyable and efficient. Enjoy your cooking process! To cook the chicken, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces, making sure they are seasoned well. Use salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning for the best flavor. Cook the chicken for about 5 to 7 minutes until it turns golden brown and is fully cooked. Always check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure safety. Once done, take the chicken out of the skillet and set it aside for later. For the creamy sauce, keep the skillet on medium heat. Start by adding minced garlic and sauté it for about one minute until it becomes fragrant. Then, pour in the heavy cream and let it come to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Asiago cheese next. Keep stirring until the cheese melts completely into the cream. This gives the sauce a smooth, rich texture that pairs perfectly with the chicken and gnocchi. When it comes to the gnocchi, you can choose between fresh or frozen. Fresh gnocchi cooks faster, usually around 2 to 3 minutes. If you're using frozen gnocchi, follow the package instructions for cooking time. Both types will add a delightful texture to your dish. Once the gnocchi is cooked, gently stir it into the creamy sauce. This will ensure that each piece is coated well. For the full recipe and detailed instructions, check the Full Recipe section. To get the right thickness in your sauce, adjust the cream. Start with one cup of heavy cream, as listed in the Full Recipe. If you want a thicker sauce, add more cheese or simmer the sauce longer. For a thinner sauce, add a splash of chicken broth or milk. Tasting during cooking is key. It helps you find the right balance of flavors. Keep tasting as you cook. This will guide you to adjust salt, pepper, or seasoning if needed. To boost flavors, consider adding more spices or herbs. Fresh thyme or rosemary can add depth. A pinch of red pepper flakes gives a nice kick. If you like lemon, a squeeze of juice brightens the dish. Pairing with wine can elevate your meal. A crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, works well. It complements the creaminess of the sauce. For sides, think about a simple green salad or roasted vegetables. These add freshness and contrast to the rich dish. {{image_2}} You can brighten up your Asiago chicken and gnocchi with extra veggies. Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes work well. You can also use your favorites, like broccoli or peas. To add them, chop the veggies into bite-sized pieces. Sauté them in the skillet after cooking the chicken. This step adds color and flavor to your dish. Cook the veggies for about 3-5 minutes until they soften. Then, continue with the cream and cheese sauce. If you want to change the protein, consider these options. Shrimp, turkey, or even tofu can replace chicken. Each option brings its own flavor and texture. When using shrimp, cook for about 2-3 minutes until they turn pink. For turkey, use ground turkey and cook until no longer pink. If you opt for tofu, make sure to press it first and sauté until golden. Adjust cooking times based on the protein you choose to keep your dish tasty and safe. To store leftovers safely, let the dish cool down. Place it in an airtight container. This keeps the chicken and gnocchi fresh for up to three days. When reheating, use low heat on the stove. This helps maintain the creamy texture. Stir often to avoid sticking. You can also add a splash of cream if the sauce thickens too much. To freeze the dish effectively, let it cool completely first. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can last for up to two months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat slowly on the stove, adding a little cream for moisture. You might also use thawed leftovers in a soup or as a filling for a pasta bake. Asiago cheese is an Italian cheese made from cow's milk. It comes in two main types: fresh and aged. Fresh Asiago has a mild, creamy taste. Aged Asiago is sharper, with a rich, nutty flavor. Both types melt well, making them perfect for sauces. You will love how it adds depth to Asiago Chicken & Gnocchi. Yes, you can easily adapt this dish to be vegetarian. Simply omit the chicken and use extra vegetables. You might try mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers. Add these veggies to the skillet after the garlic. Cook until tender before adding the cream and Asiago cheese. This way, you still get that creamy goodness without meat. Pairing sides with Asiago Chicken & Gnocchi can elevate your meal. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors. Roasted vegetables, like asparagus or Brussels sprouts, add a nice crunch. Garlic bread is also a great choice; it helps soak up the creamy sauce. Enjoy experimenting with these side options! You learned how to create a delicious dish with chicken, gnocchi, and a creamy sauce. Fresh ingredients and the right tools make a difference. Remember to season well and adjust the cream for the right thickness. You can add veggies or swap out proteins for variety. Store leftovers safely, and don't forget to reheat gently. With these tips, you’ll impress everyone at the table. Enjoy the process and have fun cooking!$

Indulge in this creamy Asiago chicken and gnocchi recipe that transforms dinner into a delightful experience! Perfectly cooked chicken combined with soft gnocchi in a rich Asiago cheese sauce makes for a comforting meal. This easy recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions. Ready in just 25 minutes, it's a dish you'll want to make again and again. Click through to explore the full recipe and impress your family tonight!

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Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

1 cup fresh or frozen gnocchi

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup grated Asiago cheese

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup fresh spinach

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and black pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken pieces to the skillet, seasoning with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for about 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is browned and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Asiago cheese until it melts and the sauce is smooth.

Add the gnocchi to the sauce, stirring gently to coat. If using fresh gnocchi, cook for 2-3 minutes; if frozen, follow the package instructions.

Once the gnocchi is cooked, return the chicken to the skillet, along with the fresh spinach. Stir until the spinach wilts and everything is heated through (about 2-3 minutes).

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

- Presentation Tips: Serve the dish in shallow bowls or plates, garnished with fresh basil leaves on top and an additional sprinkle of Asiago cheese for an elegant touch.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4