Cajun Spiced Chicken Gnocchi

Tender chicken breast and pillowy gnocchi tossed in a bold Cajun cream sauce with peppers and spinach—perfect for a fast, flavorful dinner.

This dish has quickly become a weeknight favorite in my home thanks to its quick prep and rich taste.

Ingredients

• Protein: 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 400 g) cut into bite-sized pieces
• Gnocchi & Pasta: 500 g (1 lb) potato gnocchi (fresh or shelf-stable)
• Vegetables: 1 red bell pepper thinly sliced, 2 cups baby spinach leaves, 2 cloves garlic minced
• Dairy: 3/4 cup (180 ml) heavy cream, 1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese
• Oils & Seasonings: 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 1/2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade), 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste), 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Garnish (optional): Chopped fresh parsley, Extra Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Step 1:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add gnocchi and cook according to package directions (usually 2–3 minutes until they float). Drain and set aside.

Step 2:

While the gnocchi cooks heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Step 3:

Toss chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning salt and pepper. Add to the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes until browned and cooked through. Transfer chicken to a plate.

Step 4:

In the same skillet add remaining 1 tbsp olive oil bell pepper and garlic. Sauté for 2 minutes until softened.

Step 5:

Lower heat to medium. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan scraping up any browned bits. Simmer for 1–2 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 6:

Add cooked gnocchi chicken and spinach. Toss gently until spinach wilts and everything is coated in sauce (about 1 minute).

Step 7:

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 8:

Serve immediately garnished with parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.

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This meal always brings my family together around the table for a cozy flavorful dinner.

Notes

For more flavor add sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms. Serve with a crisp green salad and a glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc.

Required Tools

Large pot, large skillet, colander, cutting board & knife, wooden spoon or spatula

Nutritional Information

Calories approx 540 Total Fat 24 g Carbohydrates 52 g Protein 29 g per serving

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This dish is a perfect balance of spice and creaminess for a quick and satisfying meal.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of chicken works best for this dish?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces cook evenly and absorb the Cajun seasoning well.

→ Can fresh and frozen gnocchi both be used?

Yes, both fresh and shelf-stable gnocchi work. Cook according to package instructions until they float, then drain.

→ How spicy is the Cajun seasoning in this dish?

The seasoning adds a moderate spicy kick, but you can adjust the heat by adding cayenne pepper or reducing the Cajun blend.

→ Is it possible to substitute the chicken with another protein?

Yes, shrimp or tofu can be good alternatives, keeping similar cooking times for even flavor coating.

→ What vegetables complement this dish best?

Sautéed bell peppers and fresh baby spinach add color and nutrition, enhancing the creamy sauce and spices.

→ How should leftovers be stored and reheated?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave to preserve texture.