Save A vibrant, quick weeknight meal featuring juicy Cajun-seasoned chicken, pillowy potato gnocchi, and sautéed vegetables—all ready in just 20 minutes.
This recipe has become a family favorite for busy evenings when we want something hearty yet easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- Protein: 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 500 g) cut into bite-sized pieces
- Spices & Seasonings: 1 ½ tablespoons Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade), ½ teaspoon salt plus more to taste, ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Vegetables: 1 red bell pepper diced, 1 small red onion thinly sliced, 2 cups baby spinach (about 60 g), 2 cloves garlic minced
- Gnocchi: 500 g (1 lb) potato gnocchi (fresh or shelf-stable)
- Other: 2 tablespoons olive oil, ¼ cup chicken broth (or water), 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions (usually 2–3 minutes until they float). Drain and set aside.
- Step 2:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Toss the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning salt and pepper.
- Step 3:
- Add the chicken to the skillet. Sauté for 4–5 minutes turning occasionally until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and cover loosely with foil.
- Step 4:
- In the same skillet add the remaining tablespoon olive oil. Sauté the red onion and bell pepper for 2–3 minutes until slightly softened.
- Step 5:
- Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds stirring constantly.
- Step 6:
- Return the cooked gnocchi and chicken to the skillet. Add the chicken broth and spinach. Stir gently to combine and heat through until the spinach wilts about 1–2 minutes.
- Step 7:
- Sprinkle with Parmesan toss well and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.
Save We love sharing this dish during family dinners because it brings warmth and vibrant flavors to the table.
Notes
For a spicier kick add a pinch of cayenne or a sliced jalapeño with the vegetables. Substitute turkey or shrimp for chicken if desired. Use gluten-free gnocchi for a gluten-free version.
Required Tools
Large pot, large skillet, colander, chefs knife, cutting board, wooden spoon or spatula
Nutritional Information
Calories: 420, Total Fat: 13 g, Carbohydrates: 48 g, Protein: 27 g per serving
Save This dish is perfect for quick weeknight meals and can easily be customized to your taste preferences.
Recipe Questions
- → How do I cook potato gnocchi properly?
Boil gnocchi in salted water until they float to the surface, about 2–3 minutes. Drain promptly and set aside for the skillet step.
- → Can I adjust the spiciness level?
Yes, add cayenne pepper or sliced jalapeños with the vegetables to increase the heat according to your preference.
- → What are good protein substitutions for chicken?
Turkey or shrimp can be used in place of chicken, providing alternative textures and flavors while maintaining the dish's balance.
- → Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Using gluten-free gnocchi options ensures the dish suits gluten-free diets. Always verify other ingredient labels as well.
- → How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
Sauté chicken until just golden and cooked through, then cover loosely with foil to keep moist before combining with other ingredients.
- → What is the best way to incorporate vegetables for flavor?
Sauté red onion and bell pepper until softened, add garlic briefly for aroma, then mix with spinach to wilt gently before combining with chicken and gnocchi.