Creamy Cajun Chicken Gnocchi Savory Weeknight Meal

October 21, 2025November 23, 2024 by Chef Evan

Ingredients

Chicken and Seasoning

– 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, diced

– 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

To start, you need chicken breast. I prefer to use fresh chicken. Dicing it helps the meat cook fast. Cajun seasoning gives our dish its signature kick. You can adjust the amount to suit your taste. Olive oil adds flavor and helps with cooking.

Vegetables

– 1 cup onions, chopped

– 1 cup bell peppers (red and green), chopped

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

Next, we need some veggies. Onions and bell peppers add sweetness and texture. Chop them finely for even cooking. Garlic is a must for flavor. Always use fresh garlic; it packs a punch.

Cream and Gnocchi Components

– 2 cups heavy cream

– 1 cup chicken broth

– 1 lb (450g) potato gnocchi

– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

– Salt and pepper to taste

Now for the creamy part! Heavy cream makes the sauce rich and smooth. Chicken broth adds depth. Gnocchi, those little pasta pillows, soak up all the flavors. Parmesan cheese adds a salty touch. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper!

Garnish

– Fresh parsley for garnish

Finally, we need fresh parsley. It adds color and a hint of freshness. A sprinkle on top makes your meal look lovely and inviting.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Chicken

Start by cutting the chicken breast into small pieces. This helps them cook evenly. Next, sprinkle the Cajun seasoning over the chicken. Make sure every piece gets a nice coat of spice. This adds great flavor to the dish.

Sautéing the Vegetables

Heat the olive oil in a big skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken. Cook it for about 5 to 7 minutes until it turns golden brown. Once done, take the chicken out and set it aside. In the same skillet, toss in the chopped onions and bell peppers. Sauté these for 3 to 4 minutes. You want them soft but still colorful. Finally, add the minced garlic. Cook it for just 30 seconds until it smells great.

Making the Sauce

Now it’s time to make the creamy sauce. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth into the skillet. Stir them together well. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes. This helps it thicken a bit. You can adjust the thickness later if needed.

Cooking the Gnocchi

While the sauce simmers, add the potato gnocchi right into the sauce. Follow the package instructions, usually around 2 to 3 minutes. The gnocchi will float to the top when they are done. Once they’re ready, bring the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until it melts into the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let everything sit for a couple of minutes. This helps the sauce get even creamier. Enjoy your meal!

Tips & Tricks

Choosing the Right Chicken

For this dish, I recommend using chicken breast. It cooks quickly and stays juicy. You can also use thighs if you prefer more flavor. Just remember to dice them into small pieces. This helps them cook evenly and stay tender. Always season the chicken well with Cajun seasoning. This adds a great kick right from the start.

Adjusting Spice Levels

If you love heat, feel free to add more Cajun seasoning. Start with a little, then taste as you go. If it’s too spicy, add a splash of cream to cool it down. You can also add a pinch of sugar to balance the spice. This way, the dish stays flavorful without being overwhelming.

Thicken Your Sauce Perfectly

To thicken your sauce, let it simmer for a few extra minutes. This allows the cream to reduce and become rich. If you want it thicker, mix a little cornstarch with water. Stir this mixture into the sauce slowly. Keep stirring until it thickens. This gives you control over the sauce’s texture.

Presentation Tips for Serving

For a beautiful presentation, serve the dish in shallow bowls. This allows the creamy sauce to show off. Garnish with fresh parsley for color. You can also sprinkle extra Parmesan on top for added flavor. A slice of lemon on the side adds a nice touch. This not only looks good but also enhances the dish’s taste.

Variations

Protein Substitutes

If chicken isn’t your thing, don’t worry! You can use shrimp instead. Just cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink. Another great option is sausage. Sliced smoked sausage adds a nice flavor. You can also try using tofu for a plant-based version.

Vegetarian Options

For a vegetarian twist, skip the meat. Use extra veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach. These will add great flavor and texture. You can also use chickpeas for protein. They add a nice bite and soak up the sauce well.

Flavor Tweaks: Adding Ingredients

Want to jazz it up? Add some sun-dried tomatoes for a sweet and tangy kick. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can also enhance the dish. You can try a splash of lemon juice for brightness. If you like heat, add sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Guidelines

You can store leftover Creamy Cajun Chicken Gnocchi in the fridge. Place it in an airtight container. This way, it will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. Before serving again, check that it smells good and looks fine.

Freezing Instructions

If you want to save it for later, freezing works too. First, let it cool down. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 2-3 months in the freezer. When you are ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating Tips

Reheat gently to keep the creamy texture. You can use a microwave or stovetop. If using the stovetop, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to help loosen it up. Heat it slowly over low heat, stirring often. Make sure it is hot all the way through before serving. Enjoy your tasty meal!

FAQs

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add more heat, use more Cajun seasoning. You can also add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes. These will give your dish a nice kick. Just remember to taste as you go. You can always add more spice, but it’s hard to take it away!

Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

Yes, you can use store-bought gnocchi for this recipe. It saves time and still tastes great. Look for fresh or frozen gnocchi in your store. They cook quickly and soak up the sauce well. Just follow the package instructions.

What is Cajun seasoning made of?

Cajun seasoning is a mix of spices. It often includes paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and black pepper. Some versions add thyme and oregano. You can make your own blend or buy it pre-made. Either way, it brings bold flavor to your dish.

How can I make this dish healthier?

To make this dish healthier, use less cream. You can replace it with low-fat milk or a plant-based cream. Use more veggies like spinach or zucchini to boost nutrition. You can also add whole wheat gnocchi for more fiber. Adjusting these will still keep your meal tasty!

We covered the key parts of making a tasty dish. You learned about ingredients like chicken, vegetables, and sauce. Following the step-by-step guide helps you prepare it easily. Tips on adjusting spice and storing your dish add more value. You can even switch proteins or make it vegetarian. Remember, cooking can be fun and creative. Try new flavors and share your dish with others. Happy cookin