Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi
Make this easy chicken Alfredo Gnocchi and transform a simple weeknight dinner into a comforting and delicious meal. The combination of pillowy-soft potato dumplings, tender chicken, and creamy alfredo sauce makes it perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. This dish not only satisfies your cravings but also impresses guests with its rich flavors and delightful textures.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting flavors – The creamy alfredo sauce combined with tender chicken and soft gnocchi brings warmth to any dinner table.
- Quick and easy – With just 35 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile ingredients – You can easily swap in gluten-free options and adjust the seasonings to fit your taste preferences.
- Family-friendly – Kids and adults alike love this dish, making it a great choice for family dinners.
- One-pan meal – Cooking everything in a single skillet simplifies cleanup, allowing you to enjoy your meal without the hassle.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking process. Having the right equipment will enhance your experience and help you achieve the best results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Cast-iron skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Cutting board
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Cast-iron skillet – Ideal for even cooking and transferring from stovetop to oven seamlessly.
- Mixing bowl – Perfect for seasoning the chicken and combining ingredients without mess.
- Whisk – Ensures a smooth texture when mixing the sauce ingredients together.
- Cutting board – Provides a safe surface for chopping shallots, garlic, and chicken.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 lb chicken breast (pounded to even thickness or sliced in half lengthwise into cutlets)
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sauce Ingredients
- 4 Tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)
- 2 shallots (thinly sliced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 3 Tablespoons flour (gluten-free if needed)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Gnocchi and Cheese
- 1 lb uncooked potato gnocchi (gluten-free if needed)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
How to Make Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F. This ensures that it’s hot enough for baking the gnocchi once assembled.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Toss the chicken with 1 Tablespoon of olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Drizzle remaining olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Pan fry the chicken for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden brown on both sides. Remove from heat when it reaches an internal temperature just below 165°F; it will continue cooking in the oven. Transfer to a cutting board to rest.
Step 4: Sauté Shallots and Garlic
In the same skillet, add 1 Tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Stir until melted while scraping up any bits left from cooking the chicken. Add shallots, cooking until soft (about 2-3 minutes). Then add minced garlic for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 5: Create the Sauce Base
Add remaining butter (3 Tablespoons) into the skillet. Once melted, sprinkle flour on top, stirring well to form a roux.
Step 6: Make it Creamy
With medium heat, whisk in chicken broth, milk, and heavy cream. Increase heat to medium-high until mixture bubbles and thickens.
Step 7: Combine Ingredients
Turn off heat. Dice cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces before adding it back into the sauce along with uncooked gnocchi. Stir well to coat all ingredients before sprinkling mozzarella and parmesan on top.
Step 8: Bake It
Place your skillet in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until cheese is melted, bubbling at edges, and lightly golden on top. Rotate carefully during baking as needed for even browning.
Enjoy your delicious Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi!
How to Serve Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi
Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors and create a delightful dining experience. Here are some creative suggestions for serving this comforting meal.
Pair with Fresh Herbs
- Basil or Parsley: Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor.
- Chives: Finely chopped chives can add a mild onion flavor that complements the creamy sauce.
Add a Side Salad
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and a tangy element to your meal.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing contrast to the rich gnocchi.
Offer Bread Options
- Garlic Bread: Warm, crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious alfredo sauce.
- Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks are great for dipping into the creamy goodness of Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi.
Top with Extra Cheese
- Parmesan Cheese: Grate extra parmesan on top before serving for added flavor and richness.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Broil a bit more mozzarella on top until golden for an indulgent finish.
Serve with Wine
- White Wine Pairing: A glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Sparkling Water: For a non-alcoholic option, serve sparkling water with lemon slices for refreshment.
How to Perfect Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi
To make your Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi even more delicious, consider these helpful tips. Each one will elevate your dish and ensure it’s truly perfect every time you make it.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh chicken and high-quality cheeses to enhance flavor.
- Cook Gnocchi Properly: Follow package instructions carefully; overcooking can lead to mushy dumplings.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you cook, adding more salt or herbs according to your preference.
- Don’t Rush the Sauce: Allow enough time for the sauce to thicken properly; this creates a better texture.
- Add Veggies: Incorporate spinach or broccoli into the dish for added nutrition and color.
- Experiment with Proteins: Try substituting chicken with shrimp or mushrooms for different flavors.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi
Pairing your Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some fantastic options that will delight your taste buds.
- Garlic Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted with garlic adds flavor and nutrition.
- Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus provides a fresh, crunchy contrast to the creamy gnocchi.
- Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomatoes and basil offers a refreshing start to your meal.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw balances the richness of the alfredo sauce nicely.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds sweetness and pairs well with savory flavors.
- Italian Antipasto Platter: A variety of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and pickled vegetables creates an exciting appetizer before the main course.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.
- Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Always season with salt and pepper before cooking.
- Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Remove it from heat when it’s just below 165°F since it will continue cooking in the oven.
- Not using enough sauce: A dry dish is not appealing. Make sure you prepare enough creamy alfredo sauce to coat all the gnocchi.
- Choosing the wrong pan: Using a non-oven-safe pan limits cooking methods. Opt for a cast-iron or another oven-safe skillet for best results.
- Ignoring cheese quality: Low-quality cheese can affect taste and texture. Use fresh mozzarella and real parmesan for optimal flavor and creaminess.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the dish to cool before sealing.
Freezing Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi
- Freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container.
- For best results, freeze before baking, then cook from frozen.
Reheating Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake covered for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Add a splash of milk or broth in a pan over medium heat, stirring frequently until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions regarding Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi.
Can I use store-bought gnocchi for Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi?
Yes, store-bought gnocchi is a convenient option that saves time while still delivering on flavor.
What’s the best way to customize Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi?
You can add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition or substitute different proteins like shrimp or sausage.
How do I make Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi gluten-free?
Use gluten-free gnocchi and flour in your alfredo sauce. The recipe remains delicious without compromising taste!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare everything, store it unbaked in the fridge, and bake when needed for a quick meal.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients or dietary needs. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for any weeknight dinner!
Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the comforting delight of Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi, a perfect dish for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. This easy recipe combines pillowy potato gnocchi, tender chicken, and a rich creamy alfredo sauce that will leave everyone asking for seconds. In just 35 minutes, you can create a mouthwatering family-friendly meal that’s as impressive as it is satisfying. Plus, with the option to customize ingredients to fit your dietary preferences, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast
- 4 Tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 shallots
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 cups milk
- 1 lb uncooked potato gnocchi
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F.
- Season chicken with olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Cook in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat for about 8-10 minutes until golden brown; remove and let rest.
- Sauté shallots and garlic in the same skillet until soft.
- Stir in remaining butter and flour to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in chicken broth, milk, and heavy cream until thickened.
- Dice cooked chicken and stir into the sauce with uncooked gnocchi; top with cheeses.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 730mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
