Asiago Chicken with Gnocchi: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

Asiago chicken with gnocchi: Prepare to be transported to a cozy Italian trattoria with every single bite! Imagine tender, pan-seared chicken breasts bathed in a creamy, decadent Asiago cheese sauce, nestled amongst pillowy soft gnocchi. This isn’t just dinner; it’s an experience.

Gnocchi, those delightful little potato dumplings, have a rich history rooted in Northern Italy, dating back to Roman times. They were traditionally a peasant food, a simple yet satisfying way to use readily available ingredients. Over the centuries, gnocchi have evolved, becoming a beloved staple in Italian cuisine, enjoyed in countless variations.

What makes Asiago chicken with gnocchi so irresistible? It’s the perfect marriage of textures and flavors. The savory chicken, the creamy, nutty Asiago cheese, and the delicate gnocchi create a symphony on your palate. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make! This dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for a weeknight family dinner or an elegant weekend gathering. I find that the rich, comforting flavors are especially welcome on a chilly evening. Let’s get cooking!

this RECIPE

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Asiago cheese, plus more for topping
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• For the Gnocchi:
• 1 (17.6 ounce) package potato gnocchi
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparing the Chicken

1. Prepare the Chicken Breasts: First, we need to get our chicken ready for its Asiago makeover! Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This helps them cook evenly and quickly.
2. Set Up the Breading Station: Now, let’s create our breading assembly line. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. In a second shallow dish, place the beaten eggs. In a third shallow dish, mix together the panko breadcrumbs and 1/2 cup of Asiago cheese.
3. Bread the Chicken: Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, making sure to coat it completely. Shake off any excess flour. Next, dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated. Finally, press the chicken into the panko-Asiago mixture, pressing firmly to adhere the breadcrumbs. Make sure every nook and cranny is covered!

Cooking the Chicken

1. Sear the Chicken: Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering and the butter is melted, carefully place the breaded chicken breasts into the hot skillet. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan; you may need to cook the chicken in batches.
2. Cook to Golden Perfection: Cook the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
3. Rest the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a wire rack to rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken.

Preparing the Gnocchi Sauce

1. Cook the Gnocchi: While the chicken is resting, cook the gnocchi according to the package directions. Usually, this involves boiling them in salted water until they float to the surface, which takes just a few minutes. Drain the gnocchi and set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet you used to cook the chicken (wipe it clean first), heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
3. Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the white wine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This adds a ton of flavor to the sauce! Let the wine simmer for a few minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly.
4. Add Tomatoes and Simmer: Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and bring the sauce to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Finish the Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for another 2-3 minutes, until slightly thickened.

Assembling and Serving

1. Combine Gnocchi and Sauce: Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet with the sauce and toss to coat. Make sure the gnocchi is evenly coated in that delicious tomato cream sauce.
2. Serve and Garnish: Place a portion of the gnocchi onto each plate. Top with a breaded Asiago chicken breast. Garnish with extra grated Asiago cheese and chopped fresh basil.
3. Enjoy! Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade Asiago chicken with gnocchi! This dish is best enjoyed fresh, while the chicken is still crispy and the gnocchi is tender.

Conclusion:

This Asiago chicken with gnocchi isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen, and trust me, you absolutely need to experience it! The creamy, cheesy sauce, the perfectly cooked gnocchi, and the tender, juicy chicken all come together in a symphony of deliciousness that will have everyone at the table begging for seconds. It’s comfort food elevated, simple enough for a busy weeknight, yet impressive enough to serve to guests.

I know what you might be thinking: “Asiago chicken with gnocchi? Sounds a bit complicated.” But honestly, it’s far easier than you might imagine. The recipe is designed to be straightforward, with clear instructions and readily available ingredients. And the payoff? A restaurant-quality meal made right in your own kitchen. What could be better?

But the real magic of this recipe lies in its versatility. Feel free to experiment and make it your own! For a lighter version, you could substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or even a cashew cream sauce for a dairy-free option. If you’re a fan of vegetables, consider adding some sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for an extra boost of nutrients and flavor. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes will add a touch of heat, while a squeeze of lemon juice will brighten the dish and cut through the richness of the cheese.

Serving suggestions? This Asiago chicken with gnocchi is fantastic on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a simple side salad. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette will provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy sauce. Alternatively, you could serve it with some roasted asparagus or broccoli for a more substantial meal. And don’t forget the crusty bread for soaking up all that delicious sauce!

For a truly decadent experience, try topping each serving with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Asiago cheese and a drizzle of truffle oil. This will elevate the dish to a whole new level of sophistication. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, you could even try adding some crumbled bacon or pancetta for a smoky, savory twist.

I’m confident that this Asiago chicken with gnocchi will become a new family favorite. It’s a recipe that’s sure to impress, and it’s so easy to customize to your own tastes. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get cooking!

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the deliciousness for yourself. Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience! Did you make any modifications? What did your family think? Share your photos and comments in the comments section below. I can’t wait to see your creations and hear your feedback. Happy cooking, and enjoy your amazing Asiago chicken with gnocchi! I am sure you will love it as much as I do.