Oven baked chicken with gnocchi
Oven baked chicken with gnocchi
Measuring the internal temperature of your chicken is the best, and most reliable, way of achieving the perfect level of succulence every time. A steady internal temperature of 75 °C (measured with a meat thermometer) means that your meat is fully cooked and safe to eat. This is true for any cut, including chicken breast as used in this recipe. Anything higher than 80 °C will cause the meat to release more and more of its moisture, leaving you with a dry, rubbery and less appetising outcome. Because of the creamy sauce included in this recipe, however, this dish is a bit more forgiving of overcooked chicken.
This is highly recommended for oven-baked chicken and will help the meat to cook evenly. Forming a protective layer, the oil (we recommend a vegetable oil like rapeseed or olive oil) will help the chicken to cook through on the inside without overcooking the outside.
This is completely up to you. Many believe that it prevents the chicken from drying out and that it’s the only way to achieve a moist and succulent outcome. Others disagree, saying that it makes no difference and that an uncovered bake results in more flavour. Give both a try and see which one works best for you!
There are three key steps to achieving the most succulent outcome every time. Coat the meat with olive oil before popping in the oven, bake at a lower temperature for longer, and remove from the oven once it has reached an internal temperature of about 71 °C then cover with foil until it reaches the recommended 75 °C. Bone-in chicken will also always be juicier so opt for these cuts as your first choice and then simply remove the bones (if necessary) after baking.
Ingredients
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Chicken breast fillets
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4 |
|---|---|
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Salt
|
1 tsp |
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Black pepper to taste
|
|
|
Butter
|
2 tbsp |
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Potato gnocchi
|
400 g |
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Baby spinach
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65 g |
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Cooking cream
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500 ml |
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Pesto
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100 ml |
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Balsamic vinegar
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1 tbsp |
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Concentrated chicken stock
|
1 tbsp |
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Grated mozzarella cheese
|
150 g |
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Fresh basil
|
1 pot |
For serving
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Mixed green salads
|
|---|
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