Description
A deliciously creamy and spicy Cajun Chicken Gnocchi recipe featuring tender chicken breast tossed with pillowy gnocchi, fresh spinach, and a rich Parmesan-infused sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, this comforting dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner with bold flavors and simple ingredients.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (or to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sauce and Vegetables
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup spinach (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Other
- 1 lb gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook gnocchi: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions until they float to the surface and are tender. Drain the gnocchi and set aside.
- Season and cook chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the diced chicken with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Make sauce: Reduce the heat to low. Add the heavy cream and chicken broth to the skillet, stirring to combine with the cooked chicken. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to allow the flavors to meld.
- Add spinach and tomatoes: Stir in the spinach and diced tomatoes. Cook for approximately 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted and the tomatoes are warmed through.
- Combine with gnocchi: Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet and toss gently to coat them thoroughly with the creamy sauce. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
- Serve: Plate the Cajun chicken gnocchi and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot for a flavorful and hearty meal.
Notes
- Use fresh spinach for best flavor; frozen spinach should be thawed and drained before adding.
- You can adjust the heat level by varying the amount of Cajun seasoning.
- Gnocchi can be store-bought or homemade depending on your preference and time.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a lower fat cream option.
- Make sure to cook the chicken fully to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
