Description
This Cajun Chicken Gnocchi is a deliciously creamy and flavorful dish featuring tender diced chicken seasoned with Cajun spices, combined with pillowy gnocchi, fresh spinach, and diced tomatoes in a rich Parmesan cream sauce. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner ready in just 30 minutes.
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
Pasta
- 1 lb gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook gnocchi: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float and are tender. Drain well 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 sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until browned and cooked through.
- Make sauce: Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring continuously to blend. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to thicken slightly.
- Add spinach and tomatoes: Stir in the spinach and diced tomatoes, cooking for 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes are heated through.
- Combine with gnocchi: Add the cooked gnocchi into the skillet, tossing gently to coat them evenly in the creamy sauce. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth to create a rich, creamy coating.
- Serve: Plate the Cajun chicken gnocchi and garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen spinach; if using frozen, thaw and drain excess water before adding.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning quantity to your preferred spice level.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though sauce will be less rich.
- Gnocchi can be store-bought or homemade depending on your preference.
- Fresh parsley garnish adds color and fresh herbal notes but is optional.
