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 this dish an appealing choice for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Whether it’s a busy weekday or a special occasion, this recipe brings warmth and flavor to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight meals.
• Comforting Flavor: The creamy alfredo sauce combined with tender chicken and soft gnocchi offers a satisfying taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or serve it as part of a larger spread for gatherings; it’s sure to impress your guests.
• Customizable Ingredients: With options for gluten-free gnocchi and dairy alternatives, you can tailor this recipe to fit various dietary needs.
• One-Pan Wonder: Cooking everything in one skillet minimizes cleanup time without sacrificing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delightful Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi, you’ll need some essential tools that streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast-iron skillet
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast-iron skillet: Perfect for even heat distribution, ensuring that your chicken cooks perfectly while adding flavor from the browned bits.
• Measuring cups & spoons: Accurate measurements are key in cooking, especially for sauces where consistency matters.

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. This ensures that the dish cooks evenly when placed inside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Toss the chicken with 1 Tablespoon of olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Drizzle the remaining olive oil in the bottom of your cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

1. Once hot, pan-fry the chicken for about 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden brown on both sides.
2. Check that the internal temperature reaches just below 165°F before removing it from heat. It will continue cooking in the oven.

Step 4: Sauté Shallots and Garlic

1. In the same skillet, add 1 Tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
2. Cook shallots for about 2–3 minutes until soft; then add minced garlic for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

1. Add the remaining butter and let it melt before sprinkling flour on top. Stir to form a roux.
2. Gradually whisk in chicken broth, milk, and heavy cream until smooth; increase heat to medium-high until thickened.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

Dice cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and mix into the sauce along with uncooked gnocchi. Stir until well coated before sprinkling mozzarella and parmesan cheese over the top.

Step 7: Bake

Place your skillet in the preheated oven for about 12–15 minutes. Bake until cheese is melted, bubbly around edges, and slightly golden on top. Rotate carefully during baking for even browning.

This Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi is not only easy to prepare but also rich in flavor—perfect for any occasion! Enjoy each bite of this creamy delight!

How to Serve Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi

Serving Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi can elevate your dinner experience and impress your family or guests. Here are some delightful ways to present this creamy dish.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing, croutons, and parmesan cheese complements the rich flavors of the gnocchi.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze add a refreshing contrast to the creamy sauce.

Add Garlic Bread

• Classic Garlic Bread: Toasted bread spread with garlic butter adds a crunchy texture and is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
• Cheesy Garlic Knots: Soft dough knots baked with garlic butter and topped with melted cheese offer an indulgent touch.

Serve with Roasted Vegetables

• Oven-Roasted Broccoli: Seasoned broccoli florets roasted until crispy provide a nutritious side that balances the meal.
• Mixed Roasted Veggies: A colorful medley of bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots roasted to perfection adds flavor and nutrition.

Incorporate Wine Pairing

• White Wine: A chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay enhances the creamy texture of the dish while offering refreshing acidity.
• Sparkling Water: For a non-alcoholic option, bubbly water infused with lemon can cleanse the palate nicely between bites.

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How to Perfect Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi

To achieve the best results when making Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi, follow these helpful tips for a creamy and delicious dish.

• Use fresh ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs, garlic, and quality cheeses to enhance the overall flavor profile.
• Don’t overcook the gnocchi: Cook gnocchi just until they float in boiling water to retain their soft texture.
• Adjust seasoning gradually: Taste as you cook and adjust salt and pepper levels according to your preference for a balanced flavor.
• Choose high-quality chicken broth: A good broth adds depth to your sauce. Homemade or low-sodium options work well.
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after baking helps flavors meld together beautifully.
• Experiment with cheeses: Mixing different types of cheese like Fontina or Gouda can create unique flavor combinations in the sauce.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi

Pair your Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi with these delightful sides that round out your meal perfectly.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for an indulgent side that complements the richness of the gnocchi.
2. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds color and crunch, making it a healthy addition to your plate.
3. Bruschetta: Toasted baguette slices topped with chopped tomatoes and basil offer a refreshing appetizer before diving into the main dish.
4. Creamy Spinach Dip: A warm spinach dip served with pita chips or veggies provides a creamy contrast to your main course.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized bring a hint of sweetness that pairs well with savory dishes.
6. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables creates an inviting starter that enhances flavors throughout your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken well can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to use salt and spices generously.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken fully before baking can make it dry. Remove it from the heat when it’s just below 165°F, as it will continue cooking in the oven.
• Neglecting the roux: Failing to cook the flour long enough in the butter can result in a raw taste. Make sure to stir until smooth and bubbly before adding liquids.
• Using cold ingredients: Adding cold milk or cream can cause the sauce to clump. Always use room-temperature dairy for a silky texture.
• Not checking for doneness: Forgetting to check the gnocchi while baking may lead to uneven cooking. Rotate and check occasionally for perfect browning.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can last for up to 2 months.

Reheating Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and reheat covered with foil for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring often until heated through.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi:

What is Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi?

Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi is a comforting dish made with tender potato dumplings, chicken, and a rich alfredo sauce, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.

Can I make Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare everything and assemble it in advance. Just bake it right before serving for best results.

Is Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi gluten-free?

You can easily make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free gnocchi and flour.

How do I customize my Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or broccoli or swap out chicken for shrimp or sausage based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi is not just a delicious meal; it’s also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite ingredients or make it ahead of time for convenience. Try this recipe today and enjoy a comforting dinner that brings joy and satisfaction!