Creative Winter & Holiday Dining Ideas: Chicken Gnocchi with Harissa

Creative Winter & Holiday Dining Ideas are often a delightful dance of flavors and aromas that bring warmth into chilly days. Imagine the scent of sizzling chicken mingling with fragrant herbs while tender gnocchi bubbles away in a creamy sauce, inviting everyone to gather around the table in anticipation. This Chicken Gnocchi with Harissa and Feta is not just another dish; it’s a culinary hug that wraps you in comfort and delight.

Whether you’re hosting a festive dinner or simply looking for a soul-soothing weeknight meal, this recipe has you covered. The hint of spicy harissa and the tangy feta elevate this simple dish into something extraordinary. Trust me; one bite of this creamy, dreamy gnocchi will have you questioning how you ever dined without it.

Ingredients for Creative Winter & Holiday Dining Ideas

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Creative Winter & Holiday Dining Ideas:

1 1/2 lb. boneless, skinless chicken cutlets – These juicy slices are perfect for quick cooking and absorb all the lovely flavors you’ll be adding.

Kosher salt – Ideal for seasoning to enhance the chicken’s natural flavor.

Freshly ground black pepper – A fresh grind gives a great kick and enhances all taste profiles.

1 1/2 tsp. ras el hanout – This North African spice blend adds an exotic touch and warm flavors that make every bite interesting.

2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil – Use this for sautéing; its rich flavor helps in cooking the chicken to perfection.

1 small shallot, finely chopped – Sweet and mild, shallots add depth to your sauce without overpowering it.

8 oz. baby bella mushrooms, thinly sliced – Their earthy flavor adds a wonderful umami boost to the dish.

2 garlic cloves, finely chopped – Because everything is better with garlic, right?

1/2 cup harissa paste – This North African hot chili pepper paste is the secret weapon for a spicy kick.

2 tsp. fresh thyme leaves, finely chopped – Fresh thyme enhances the dish’s fragrance and flavor, giving it a lovely herbal note.

1 cup low-sodium chicken broth – Great for building a flavorful base for your sauce without adding excess salt.

1 1/4 cups half-and-half – This creamy blend is essential for that luxurious, velvety sauce.

1 (17-oz.) pkg. dry or frozen gnocchi – The star of the show! Gnocchi provides a delightful, chewy texture that pairs perfectly with the sauce.

3/4 cup crumbled feta – Adds salty and tangy flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.

3 cups packed baby spinach – For a touch of freshness and color, throw spinach in to brighten up the dish.

Finely chopped fresh basil leaves, for serving – A sprinkle of basil elevates the dish’s taste and looks on the plate.

How to Make Creative Winter & Holiday Dining Ideas

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Creative Winter & Holiday Dining Ideas:

Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken
Season chicken cutlets on both sides with salt, black pepper, and ras el hanout. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add chicken to the skillet and cook for about 4 minutes on each side until golden brown. When done, transfer the chicken to a cutting board to rest and cool slightly.

Step 2: Saute the Aromatics
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the chopped shallots and sliced mushrooms, cooking for about 5 minutes until they are beautifully browned and aromatic. Stir in the garlic, harissa, and thyme, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Gradually stir in half-and-half, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Season again with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Cook the Gnocchi
Stir the gnocchi into the simmering sauce. Allow it to cook, stirring occasionally, until the gnocchi is tender. If using frozen gnocchi, it will require an extra couple of minutes.

Step 5: Add Feta and Spinach
Add half a cup of crumbled feta into the sauce, stirring until it melts and integrates into a creamy delight. Toss in the baby spinach and cook for about 2 minutes until wilted.

Step 6: Combine and Serve
Slice the rested chicken and return it to the skillet with the gnocchi mixture. Top everything with the remaining feta and a sprinkle of fresh basil for a burst of color and flavor.

When you dish it up, don’t forget to drizzle a bit of olive oil over the top for that added touch. This Chicken Gnocchi with Harissa and Feta is a brilliantly comforting dish, perfect for cold nights and holiday gatherings alike. Enjoy the warmth and flavors and brace yourself for the compliments you’ll receive!

Perfecting Creative Winter & Holiday Dining Ideas Cooking Process

To achieve the best results, start by searing the chicken to get that golden crust. While the chicken rests, you can sauté the mushrooms and shallots. Then prepare the sauce while boiling the gnocchi in parallel for an efficient cooking flow.

Add Your Touch to Creative Winter & Holiday Dining Ideas

Feel free to customize by swapping chicken for shrimp or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Add more spices for a bolder flavor, or toss in sun-dried tomatoes for a twist that will dazzle your guests.

Storing & Reheating Creative Winter & Holiday Dining Ideas

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream to retain creaminess.

Cooking this dish always brings back memories of the first time I served it at a dinner party. My friends couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was, and I felt like a gourmet chef for a night!

FAQs About Creative Winter & Holiday Dining Ideas

What is Creative Winter & Holiday Dining Ideas?

Creative Winter & Holiday Dining Ideas refer to innovative approaches to meal preparation and presentation that elevate the dining experience during the colder months and festive seasons. It encourages chefs and home cooks to incorporate seasonal ingredients and unique flavor combinations, creating memorable meals. Dishes like Chicken Gnocchi with Harissa and Feta exemplify this concept by combining comforting elements with exotic spices, resulting in a dish that is both satisfying and visually appealing.

How can I customize Creative Winter & Holiday Dining Ideas?

You can personalize your Creative Winter & Holiday Dining Ideas by adapting recipes to suit dietary preferences and tastes. For instance, swapping chicken for shrimp or tofu provides a protein-rich option for vegetarians. Additionally, adding spices or ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes or roasted peppers can introduce exciting new flavors. This flexibility ensures that your winter dining remains versatile and delightful for all guests, making each meal a unique culinary experience.

What are the benefits of preparing Creative Winter & Holiday Dining Ideas?

Preparing Creative Winter & Holiday Dining Ideas allows you to explore new flavors and techniques while emphasizing seasonal ingredients. This approach not only satisfies your palate but also provides an excellent opportunity to showcase your culinary skills to family and friends. Furthermore, these dishes often emphasize comfort and warmth, which are just what you need during cold weather gatherings, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere for your winter festivities.

Can Creative Winter & Holiday Dining Ideas be made in advance?

Absolutely! Many Creative Winter & Holiday Dining Ideas, including Chicken Gnocchi with Harissa and Feta, can be prepped ahead of time. You can marinate proteins, chop vegetables, or even assemble dishes prior to your gathering. Storing ingredients separately until just before serving maintains freshness and flavors, allowing you to enjoy quality time with your guests instead of spending the entire evening in the kitchen. With a bit of planning, you can offer impressive meals while minimizing stress.

Conclusion for Creative Winter & Holiday Dining Ideas

Creative Winter & Holiday Dining Ideas brings a delightful twist to your seasonal cooking. By embracing unique flavors and techniques, you can transform simple ingredients into extraordinary meals, like the Chicken Gnocchi with Harissa and Feta. Remember, these recipes not only please the palate but also elevate your gatherings, making them incredibly memorable. As you experiment with your culinary creations, you’ll discover how fun and rewarding it is to engage your guests with beautiful, delicious food that captures the spirit of the season.

Chicken Gnocchi with Harissa and Feta

Creative Winter & Holiday Dining Ideas featuring Chicken Gnocchi with Harissa and Feta for a delicious and vibrant meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner Recipes

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Calories: 500

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x?

• 1.5 lb. boneless, skinless chicken cutlets
• Kosher salt to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1.5 tsp. ras el hanout
• 2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil divided
• 1 small shallot finely chopped
• 8 oz. baby bella mushrooms thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic finely chopped
• 0.5 cup harissa paste
• 2 tsp. fresh thyme leaves finely chopped
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1.25 cups half-and-half
• 1 pkg. dry or frozen gnocchi (17-oz.)
• 0.75 cup crumbled feta divided
• 3 cups packed baby spinach
• Finely chopped fresh basil leaves for serving

Equipment

• skillet
• cutting board
• knife
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons

Method

 

1. Season chicken on both sides with salt, pepper, and ras el hanout. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1 Tbsp. oil. Add chicken and cook, turning halfway through, until golden brown and an instant-read thermometer inserted into thickest part registers 165°, about 4 minutes per side. Transfer to a cutting board.
2. In the same skillet over medium heat, heat remaining 1 Tbsp. oil. Add shallot and mushrooms and cook, stirring frequently, until browned, about 5 minutes. Add garlic, harissa, and thyme and cook, stirring, until fragrant, 1 to 2 minutes more. Add broth and scrape up any browned bits on bottom of pan. Slowly add half-and-half, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer; season with salt and pepper. Stir in gnocchi and return to simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until gnocchi is cooked through and tender, about 10 minutes (cook time will be 2 to 3 minutes longer for frozen gnocchi).
3. Add 1/2 cup feta and stir until melted, then add spinach and stir until wilted, about 2 minutes.
4. Slice chicken and return to skillet. Top with basil and remaining 1/4 cup feta.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Feel free to customize by swapping chicken for shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian option. Add more spices for a bolder flavor, or sun-dried tomatoes for an exciting twist.

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