Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi
Make this easy Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi and transform a simple weeknight dinner into a comforting and delicious meal. This dish combines pillowy-soft potato dumplings, tender chicken, and creamy alfredo sauce, creating the perfect comfort food for any occasion. Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress with its rich flavors and satisfying textures.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this dish ready to bake in no time.
- Creamy Goodness: The blend of heavy cream and cheeses creates a luscious sauce that coats every bite.
- Versatile Meal: Perfect for dinner parties, weeknight meals, or even leftovers for lunch the next day.
- Kid-Friendly: With its mild flavors and cheesy goodness, even picky eaters will enjoy this dish.
- One-Pan Wonder: Most of the cooking happens in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Cast-iron skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Cast-iron skillet: Provides even heat distribution for browning the chicken perfectly.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring sauces without scratching your cookware.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient portions for consistent results.
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, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Drizzle the remaining olive oil in the bottom of a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
Once hot and shimmering, pan fry the chicken for about 8–10 minutes.
Flip halfway through until golden brown on the outside and cooked to an internal temperature of just below 165°F. Remove from heat when it reaches about 145°F since it will continue cooking in the oven.
Step 3: Sauté Shallots and Garlic
In the same skillet, add 1 Tablespoon of butter. Stir until melted while scraping up brown bits from cooking chicken.
Add shallots; cook for about 2–3 minutes until soft.
Stir in minced garlic; cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Prepare Alfredo Sauce
Add remaining butter; stir until melted. Sprinkle flour over mixture to create a roux.
Whisk in chicken broth, milk, and heavy cream over medium heat.
Turn up heat to medium-high; whisk until smooth and bubbling.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Gnocchi
Turn off heat. Dice cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. Add chicken along with uncooked gnocchi to sauce. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
Step 6: Add Cheese Topping
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese and parmesan on top of the mixture in the skillet.
Step 7: Bake
Bake in preheated oven for about 12–15 minutes. Check occasionally until cheese is melted and bubbling around edges with golden spots on top.
Enjoy your homemade Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi, a delightful dish that promises warmth and satisfaction!
How to Serve Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi
Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi is a versatile dish that can be served in several delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.
Family Style
- Serve in a large dish for everyone to help themselves, making it perfect for family gatherings or casual get-togethers.
Individual Bowls
- Portion out servings into individual bowls for a more refined dining experience. This makes it easy to add personal touches like extra cheese or herbs.
With Fresh Herbs
- Top with fresh parsley or basil just before serving to add color and a burst of flavor. It enhances both the look and taste of the dish.
With Extra Cheese
- Offer additional mozzarella and parmesan on the side for those who love their dishes extra cheesy. Melted cheese adds an irresistible richness.
With Crusty Bread
- Serve alongside warm, crusty bread for dipping. The bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover creamy sauce.
Pair with Salad
- A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi nicely, balancing flavors on your plate.
How to Perfect Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi
Perfecting Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi takes just a few tips to make your meal even better. Follow these recommendations for the best results.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and high-quality cheeses can significantly enhance the flavor of your dish.
- Cook Gnocchi Properly: Follow package instructions closely to ensure your gnocchi are tender yet firm; avoid overcooking.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning as you go, especially with salt and pepper, to suit your palate.
- Don’t Rush the Sauce: Allow the sauce to bubble gently until thickened; this helps develop rich flavors.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the dish rest for a few minutes after baking; this allows flavors to settle and makes serving easier.
- Experiment with Add-ins: Consider adding vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for added nutrition and flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi
Pairing side dishes with Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi can create a balanced meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft inside, garlic bread complements the creamy gnocchi perfectly.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine with Caesar dressing adds freshness and crunch alongside the rich pasta.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted with olive oil enhance nutrition and add vibrant colors to your plate.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a nutritious green element that contrasts well with creamy dishes.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer bright flavors and textures.
- Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables creates an inviting starter before the main course.
- Zucchini Noodles: Light zucchini noodles serve as a low-carb alternative that pairs well with heavy sauces.
- Mixed Greens: A simple mixed greens salad dressed lightly adds freshness without overwhelming flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi experience. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Overcooking the Chicken: It’s important to pan fry the chicken just until golden brown. Remove it from heat before it reaches 165°F to prevent it from becoming dry.
- Not Using Enough Sauce: Ensure that you have enough creamy alfredo sauce to coat all the gnocchi evenly. A dry dish can ruin the flavor and texture.
- Ignoring the Gnocchi Cooking Time: Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions before adding them to the sauce. Undercooked gnocchi can be tough and chewy.
- Skipping the Cheese Topping: Don’t forget to sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan on top before baking. This creates a delicious cheesy crust that enhances the dish’s appeal.
- Not Preheating the Oven: Always preheat your oven before baking. This ensures even cooking and helps achieve that bubbly, golden top.
- Cooking in a Cold Pan: Make sure your skillet is hot before you add ingredients. This helps sear the chicken properly and prevents sticking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi
- You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months.
- Use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and reheat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil for about 20-25 minutes, until heated through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat for about 2-4 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some questions readers often ask about Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi:
Can I use store-bought gnocchi?
Yes! Using store-bought gnocchi saves time and still yields delicious results.
How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply use gluten-free flour for the roux and ensure your gnocchi is gluten-free as well.
Can I add vegetables to Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi?
Absolutely! Spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms make great additions for extra nutrition and flavor.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can substitute half-and-half or coconut cream for a lighter version while still maintaining creaminess.
How can I customize my Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi?
Feel free to add spices or herbs like basil or thyme for added flavor. You can also swap chicken for shrimp or sausage!
Final Thoughts
Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi is not only comforting but also versatile enough for any weeknight dinner. The creamy sauce combined with tender chicken and fluffy gnocchi makes it irresistible. Customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins for an even more delightful meal!
Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi, a delightful dish that transforms your weeknight dinners into something special. This recipe features tender, pillowy potato gnocchi smothered in a rich, creamy alfredo sauce made from heavy cream and cheese, complemented by juicy chicken. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, this one-pan wonder is as easy to prepare as it is satisfying.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil
- 4 Tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic
- 3 Tablespoons flour
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 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. Pan-fry in a cast-iron skillet until golden brown.
- Sauté shallots and garlic in the same skillet. Add butter and flour to make a roux.
- Gradually whisk in chicken broth, milk, and heavy cream until bubbling.
- Stir in diced chicken and uncooked gnocchi until well-coated.
- Top with mozzarella and parmesan 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: 1 serving
- Calories: 590
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 730mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
