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 the perfect comfort food for family gatherings, cozy nights in, or any occasion that calls for something special.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: Get dinner on the table in just 35 minutes, from prep to serving.
- Rich Flavor: The creamy alfredo sauce combined with tender chicken brings out rich and comforting flavors.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect for a family dinner but elegant enough for entertaining guests.
- Comforting Texture: The soft gnocchi paired with melted cheese creates a delightful texture that everyone will love.
- Easily Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or swap proteins to suit your taste.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make your cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Cast-iron skillet or large oven-safe skillet
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Cast-iron skillet: Ensures even heating and can go directly from stovetop to oven.
- Sharp knife: Makes cutting the chicken easy and safe, providing clean cuts for even cooking.
- Whisk: Essential for achieving a smooth sauce without lumps when combining the ingredients.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 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
– 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
– 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 the oven to 425°F. Toss the chicken with 1 Tablespoon olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and salt until well coated.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Drizzle the remaining 1 Tablespoon of olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once hot and shimmering, pan-fry the chicken for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden brown. It should reach an internal temperature just below 165°F; it will continue cooking while baking.
- If needed, add a splash of water to prevent burning before it’s fully cooked. Transfer cooked chicken to a cutting board to rest.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add 1 Tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Stir until melted while scraping up brown bits from the pan.
- Add shallots and cook for 2–3 minutes until soft. Then stir in minced garlic for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 4: Create the Roux
- Add the remaining 3 Tablespoons of butter to the pan. Stir until melted.
- Sprinkle flour on top and mix to create a thick paste (roux).
Step 5: Make it Creamy
With heat on medium:
Whisk in chicken broth, milk, and heavy cream.
Increase heat to medium-high while whisking continuously until bubbling and thickened.
Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Turn off heat:
Dice cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Add diced chicken along with uncooked gnocchi into the sauce. Stir gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
Top with mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
Step 7: Bake
Bake in preheated oven for 12–15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbling around edges, starting to turn golden brown. Check once or twice during baking, rotating pan carefully for even browning.
Enjoy your delicious Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi!
How to Serve Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi
Serving Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi can elevate your dining experience, making it both comforting and delightful. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this dish.
Family Style
- Serve in a large skillet: Present the dish in the same skillet you baked it in. This adds a rustic feel and keeps the gnocchi warm.
- Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or basil on top for a burst of color and flavor.
Individual Plates
- Portion control: Serve in individual bowls for a more refined dining experience. Pair with crusty bread for dipping.
- Top with extra cheese: Add more mozzarella or parmesan just before serving for an indulgent touch.
Pair with Salads
- Caesar salad: A classic Caesar salad pairs well with the creamy texture of the gnocchi, adding crispness and freshness.
- Mixed greens: A simple green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi.
With Wine
- Pair with white wine: A crisp Chardonnay complements the creamy sauce beautifully. Serve chilled for the best experience.
- Sparkling water: For a non-alcoholic option, serve sparkling water with lemon slices to cleanse the palate.
How to Perfect Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi
Perfecting Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi can turn this dish into a showstopper. Follow these tips to enhance your cooking experience.
- seasoning: Use generous amounts of salt and pepper when seasoning your chicken to ensure it’s flavorful.
- Proper chicken cooking: Be attentive when pan-frying; don’t overcook the chicken as it will bake further in the oven.
- Creamy sauce consistency: Whisk thoroughly when adding liquids to achieve a smooth and creamy sauce without lumps.
- Cheese variety: Feel free to mix cheeses like fontina or gouda for added depth in flavor alongside mozzarella and parmesan.
- Fresh ingredients: Always use fresh garlic and shallots; they provide aromatic qualities that dried spices cannot match.
- Taste as you go: Adjust seasoning throughout cooking. This ensures a balanced flavor profile in your final dish.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi
Choosing the right side dishes can enhance your meal featuring Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi. Here are some excellent options.
- Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up extra sauce from your gnocchi.
- Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli adds nutrients and color, balancing out the creaminess of the main dish.
- Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned roasted asparagus brings a nice crunch and earthy flavor that pairs well with alfredo sauce.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a refreshing contrast to the rich gnocchi.
- Zucchini Noodles: For a lighter option, serve zucchini noodles sautéed in olive oil alongside your dish for added veggies.
- Antipasto Platter: An assortment of olives, cured meats, and cheeses can provide variety and stimulate appetites before diving into the main course.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, balancing out the richness of the Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob is an easy side dish that brings sweetness to counteract savory flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi dish from good to great. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:
- Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your chicken and sauce properly can lead to bland flavors. Always taste and adjust seasoning as you go.
- Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken fully before baking can result in dry meat. Aim to remove it from the heat when it’s just underdone, as it will continue cooking in the oven.
- Not scraping the pan: Failing to scrape the brown bits from the pan while making the sauce means missing out on rich flavors. Make sure to incorporate these bits into your sauce for added depth.
- Ignoring cheese quality: Using low-quality cheese can impact creaminess and flavor. Opt for freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded for a better texture.
- Underestimating gnocchi cooking time: Cooking gnocchi too long in boiling water may lead them to become mushy. Follow package instructions carefully for perfect texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
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- Duration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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- Container: Use glass or plastic containers with tight lids.
Freezing Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi
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- Duration: Freeze for up to 2 months.
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- Container: Use freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible.
Reheating Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until warm.
- Stovetop: Add a splash of milk or broth and reheat gently over low heat, stirring frequently.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re curious about Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi, here are some common questions and answers.
Can I use store-bought gnocchi for Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi?
Yes, store-bought gnocchi saves time and still tastes delicious in this recipe. Just follow package instructions for cooking.
Is Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi gluten-free?
You can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free gnocchi and flour. This way, everyone can enjoy this comforting dish!
How do I customize my Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi?
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for added nutrition and flavor. You can also experiment with different cheeses.
What is the best type of chicken to use?
Boneless, skinless chicken breast works best as it cooks quickly and remains tender in the sauce.
Can I make Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare everything up to baking, then cover and refrigerate overnight. Bake it fresh when you’re ready!
Final Thoughts
Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi is a comforting dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Its creamy texture and rich flavors are sure to please anyone at your table. Customize with your favorite veggies or proteins for a personal touch!
Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this easy Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi recipe. This delightful dish features pillowy potato dumplings enveloped in a rich, creamy alfredo sauce, accompanied by tender chicken. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering, it brings warmth and satisfaction to any occasion. With just 35 minutes from prep to plate, you can transform a simple weeknight meal into something truly special. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins for a personal touch, and enjoy every bite of this comforting culinary experience.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 lb potato gnocchi
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F. Season chicken with olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- In a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat, cook chicken for 8–10 minutes until golden brown. Remove and let rest.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté shallots and garlic until fragrant.
- Stir in flour to create a roux, then whisk in chicken broth, milk, and cream until thickened.
- Add diced chicken and gnocchi to the sauce; stir to combine. Top with mozzarella and parmesan.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes until cheese is bubbling and golden.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 63g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
