Chicken Sausage and Gnocchi: A Delicious Dinner Idea

Chicken sausage and gnocchi create a delightful meal. This dish is not only tasty and filling but also simple to whip up. Many enjoy it for dinner because of its flavor and comfort. The fun part is that it can be prepared in various ways to suit different tastes.

From creamy sauces to fresh vegetables, there’s a version for everyone. For those looking to impress their family or friends, this meal is a winner. Dive into the recipes ahead and discover how to make this delicious dish that everyone will love!

Key Takeaway

• Chicken sausage is a healthy choice that tastes great.
• Gnocchi is a fun pasta that adds a special touch to meals.
• This dish is easy to customize with different veggies and sauces.

Chicken Sausage and Gnocchi

Chicken sausage and gnocchi create a delicious meal enjoyed by many. Gnocchi are soft, pillowy dumplings made from potatoes. Their chewy texture pairs nicely with a variety of flavors. Chicken sausage is a leaner choice compared to pork sausage and comes in exciting flavors, such as Italian or spicy, adding a delightful kick to the dish.

Incorporating veggies like spinach and tomatoes makes the meal even more appealing. These colorful vegetables not only brighten up the plate but also add health benefits. Together, chicken sausage and gnocchi deliver a hearty dish. It’s a fantastic option for family dinners or friendly get-togethers. (1)

Cooking Methods for Chicken Sausage and Gnocchi

There are many tasty ways to cook chicken sausage and gnocchi. One popular method is the skillet approach. Here’s how it works:

Skillet Method

Ingredients:

• Chicken sausage (about 1 pound)
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
• Shallots (1 small, chopped)
• Gnocchi (1 pound, store-bought or homemade)
• Chicken broth (1 cup)
• Olive oil (1 tablespoon)
• Spinach (2 cups, fresh)
• Cherry tomatoes (1 cup, halved)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Steps:

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add olive oil.
2. Cook the chicken sausage until it’s browned and fully cooked, about 7-10 minutes.
3. Stir in the garlic and shallots; cook for 2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add the gnocchi and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
5. Let it simmer until the gnocchi are tender, about 5 minutes.
6. Mix in spinach and cherry tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper.

This method is quick and fills the kitchen with a great aroma.

Sheet Pan Method

Another easy way is using a sheet pan. This approach combines all the ingredients and lets the oven do the work.

Ingredients:

• Chicken sausage (about 1 pound)
• Gnocchi (1 pound, fresh or frozen)
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
• Bell peppers (1 cup, sliced)
• Zucchini (1 cup, sliced)
• Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. On a large sheet pan, toss chicken sausage, gnocchi, bell peppers, and zucchini with olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread everything out evenly.
4. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through.

This method is simple and saves cleanup time.

Stovetop Boil Method

For those who like traditional stovetop cooking, boiling the gnocchi separately is a solid choice.

Ingredients:

• Chicken sausage (about 1 pound)
• Gnocchi (1 pound)
• Spinach (2 cups, fresh)
• Olive oil (1 tablespoon)
• Your favorite sauce (about 1 cup)

Steps:

1. Cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions in a pot of salted water.
2. In another pan, heat olive oil and cook the chicken sausage until browned.
3. Add spinach to the sausage; mix well.
4. Drain the gnocchi and combine everything. Toss with sauce.

Each method brings its own flavor and fun to the dish. Try them out and see which one becomes a favorite! (2)

Ingredients for Chicken Sausage and Gnocchi

Credits: Festival Foods

When preparing chicken sausage and gnocchi, there are some essential ingredients to keep in mind. First, gnocchi is a must. You can find it at most grocery stores, usually in the pasta aisle or refrigerated section. It can be made from potatoes, flour, and egg, giving it a soft, chewy texture.

Next up is the chicken sausage. This ingredient adds flavor and protein. With various options like Italian, garlic, or spicy chicken sausage, it’s easy to find a flavor that suits anyone’s palate.

Fresh vegetables not only brighten the dish but also pack in nutrition. Spinach adds a lovely green color, while bell peppers contribute sweetness and crunch. Cherry tomatoes offer a burst of flavor and a pretty presentation. Garlic and shallots enhance the taste, making the dish more aromatic.

For a creamy touch, sauces are key. Heavy cream or tomato sauce are popular choices that complement the sausage and gnocchi well. If cheese is a favorite, grated Parmesan makes an excellent topping, adding richness and flavor. With these key ingredients, the meal turns out delicious and satisfying every time.

Sample Recipes for Chicken Sausage and Gnocchi

There are plenty of delicious recipes for chicken sausage and gnocchi that anyone can try. One popular option is creamy tomato gnocchi.

Creamy Tomato Gnocchi Ingredients:

• Chicken sausage (1 pound)
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
• Shallots (1 small, chopped)
• Heavy cream (1 cup)
• Tomato paste (2 tablespoons)
• Gnocchi (1 pound)

Steps:

1. In a skillet, cook the chicken sausage until browned and fully cooked.
2. Add minced garlic and chopped shallots to the pan, cooking until fragrant.
3. Stir in heavy cream and tomato paste until combined.
4. Mix in gnocchi and stir everything together until warmed through.

Another exciting dish is spicy gnocchi.

Spicy Gnocchi Ingredients:

• Chicken sausage (1 pound)
• Sun-dried tomatoes (1/2 cup, chopped)
• Chili flakes (to taste)
• Spinach (2 cups, fresh)
• Chicken broth (1 cup)
• Gnocchi (1 pound)

Steps:

1. Cook the chicken sausage in a skillet until browned.
2. Add sun-dried tomatoes and chili flakes for a kick.
3. Stir in fresh spinach and chicken broth, mixing well.
4. Finally, add the gnocchi and let it cook until everything is heated through.

For an easy sheet pan meal, try roasting everything together.

Sheet Pan Chicken Sausage and Gnocchi Ingredients:

• Chicken sausage (1 pound, sliced)
• Zucchini (1 cup, sliced)
• Cherry tomatoes (1 cup, halved)
• Pesto (1/2 cup)

Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. On a sheet pan, combine sliced chicken sausage, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes.
3. Roast for about 20-25 minutes until everything is tender.
4. Toss with pesto before serving.

Each of these recipes is simple and can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for any busy weeknight!

Customizing Chicken Sausage and Gnocchi

Chicken sausage and gnocchi are incredibly versatile dishes. They allow for creativity, letting everyone tailor them to their tastes or what’s available in the kitchen. For instance, swapping out chicken sausage for turkey sausage is an easy and tasty alternative that many enjoy.

Sauces also play a big role in changing the dish’s flavor. Options like creamy Alfredo or classic marinara can take the meal in different directions, keeping it exciting. Plus, the veggies can be adjusted to suit the season or personal preferences. Fresh seasonal vegetables can make the dish even more delightful.

Adding fresh herbs, like basil or parsley, can really boost the flavor. This is a simple way to add freshness and an aromatic touch. For those following gluten-free diets, cauliflower gnocchi works wonderfully as a substitute.

With all these customizable options, it becomes easy to whip up a meal that suits everyone’s palate. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and ingredients!

Nutritional Benefits of Chicken Sausage and Gnocchi

Chicken sausage and gnocchi come with several health benefits. Chicken sausage is an excellent source of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair. It typically has less fat compared to pork sausage, making it a leaner alternative that many people appreciate.

Including vegetables in this dish adds a variety of vitamins and minerals. Spinach is rich in iron, which helps in energy production and supports overall health. Tomatoes are a great source of vitamin C, known for boosting the immune system and promoting skin health. By incorporating different vegetables, such as bell peppers and zucchini, the dish becomes even more nutritious.

Gnocchi, while primarily a source of carbohydrates, can be balanced well with fresh vegetables. Carbs provide energy, which is especially important for active lifestyles.

Overall, this meal is a simple way to enjoy a nutritious mix of ingredients. A colorful plate filled with vegetables is not just visually appealing but also a smart choice for health and wellness.

Conclusion

Chicken sausage and gnocchi make a delicious and easy meal perfect for busy weeknights. With comforting flavors and straightforward cooking methods, this dish suits various tastes and dietary needs. Whether cooked in a skillet or roasted on a sheet pan, it’s adaptable for everyone.

The combination of protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates creates a satisfying meal that pleases the whole table. Enjoy experimenting with different ingredients to make it your own!

FAQ

What is gnocchi made of?

Gnocchi is a type of pasta typically made from potatoes, flour, and eggs. Sometimes, potato gnocchi includes other ingredients for flavor, like spinach or cheese. It’s soft, chewy, and perfect for pairing with chicken sausage or creamy gnocchi sauces.

Can I use chicken sausages for gnocchi recipes?

Yes, chicken sausages work wonderfully in gnocchi recipes! Whether you’re making a gnocchi skillet or a dish like gnocchi with spinach and chicken sausage, the flavors of chicken sausage complement gnocchi well. You can also try pairing them with a red bell pepper or spinach for a nutritious twist.

What’s the best way to cook gnocchi?

You can boil gnocchi in a pot of salted water according to package directions or try a pan gnocchi method. Sautéing gnocchi in a large skillet with extra virgin olive oil over medium heat creates a golden, crispy texture. Add cooked chicken sausage or vegetables like cherry tomatoes and fresh spinach for a complete meal.

Can gnocchi recipes be made dairy free?

Yes, you can make dairy-free gnocchi recipes! Replace heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk and skip cheese or use a plant-based option. Gnocchi with spinach, sausage, and peppers can easily be adapted for a dairy-free dinner.

What are some good side dishes for gnocchi?

Gnocchi pairs well with many side dishes. Caesar salad, roasted vegetables like bell pepper or cherry tomatoes, and a loaf of crusty bread are great options. If you want a hearty combination, try adding chicken broth or chicken stock to make a flavorful soup.

Is gnocchi gluten free?

Traditional gnocchi is not gluten free as it usually contains wheat flour. However, you can find or make gluten-free versions using alternative flours. Pair gluten-free gnocchi with chicken sausage and fresh basil for a tasty main dish.

Can I use store bought gnocchi for recipes?

Absolutely! Store bought gnocchi is a convenient option for quick meals. Cook it according to package directions, then toss it in a cast iron skillet with oil over medium heat. Add chicken sausage, spinach, and grated parmesan cheese for an easy and delicious dinner.

How can I make gnocchi healthier?

You can make gnocchi healthier by adding fresh vegetables like spinach and red bell pepper, using chicken sausage with lower saturated fat, and opting for extra virgin olive oil instead of butter. Feel free to experiment with lighter sauces, like chicken broth-based ones, to reduce calories.

Can I use goat cheese in gnocchi dishes?

Yes, goat cheese adds a tangy, creamy flavor to gnocchi dishes. It works well in a gnocchi skillet with chicken sausage or a creamy gnocchi sauce. Combine it with ingredients like fresh basil, spinach, or cherry tomatoes for a balanced and flavorful meal.

How do I store leftover gnocchi dishes?

Store leftover gnocchi dishes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to restore moisture. Avoid freezing creamy gnocchi dishes, as the sauce may separate.

References:

1. https://www.thekitchn.com/recipe-gnocchi-skillet-with-chicken-sausage-amp-tomatoes-206429
2. https://www.familyfoodonthetable.com/gnocchi-with-chicken-sausage-and-spinach/

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