If you are craving a dish that bursts with comforting flavors and a delightful Southern twist, the Cajun Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe is here to satisfy your every craving. This one-pan wonder brings together tender, perfectly seasoned chicken and pillowy gnocchi drenched in a creamy, spicy sauce packed with sun-dried tomatoes, bell peppers, and just the right amount of Creole seasoning. It’s a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that will make you want to lick your plate clean and keep the skillet handy for weeknight dinners or when you want to impress guests with a soulful meal that feels like a warm hug.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to make this Cajun Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe is a breeze because it uses straightforward ingredients that each play a vital role. From the seasoning that adds that signature Cajun kick to the gnocchi that brings softness, every component complements one another beautifully to create a dish that is as colorful as it is flavorful.
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 1/2 lb. total): The hearty protein base that soaks up all the spices and sauce.
- 4 1/2 tsp. Creole seasoning (such as Tony Chachere’s), divided: Essential for that authentic Southern spice with a perfect balance of heat and herbs.
- 3 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided: Used to sear the chicken and sauté the veggies, bringing out natural flavors.
- 1 yellow onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce as it cooks down.
- 1 medium green bell pepper, seeds and ribs removed, finely chopped: Gives a fresh crunch and vibrant color.
- 1 stalk celery, finely chopped: A classic aromatic that rounds out the vegetable mix perfectly.
- 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced: Provides that irresistible savory punch.
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth: Forms the flavorful base for the creamy sauce.
- 2 Tbsp. tomato paste: Delivers tanginess and richness to deepen the sauce’s body.
- 1 cup half-and-half: Creates the luscious, creamy texture that coats every bite.
- 1/2 cup drained chopped sun-dried tomatoes: Adds a sweet, concentrated tomato flavor and lovely texture contrast.
- 1/2 tsp. dried thyme: Offers an earthy, herbaceous note that lifts the sauce.
- 1 (17-oz.) package gnocchi: The soft, pillowy starch element that absorbs the sauce beautifully.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty finish that makes the sauce extra indulgent.
- Kosher salt, to taste: For seasoning balance throughout the cooking process.
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Adds a touch of heat and sharpness.
- Chopped fresh parsley, for serving: A fresh, herbal garnish that brightens the finished dish.
How to Make Cajun Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry and seasoning them generously on both sides with 4 teaspoons of Creole seasoning. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully place the chicken breasts in the skillet and cook them for about 5 minutes on each side. You’re aiming for a beautiful golden-brown crust that locks in the juices. Once seared and nearly cooked through, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside. This step ensures your chicken stays juicy and flavorful, forming the backbone of your dish.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Using the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and lower the heat to medium. Toss in the finely chopped onion, green bell pepper, celery, and sliced garlic. Stir occasionally, allowing these vegetables to soften and release their natural sweetness and aroma—this usually takes around 5 minutes. These sautéed veggies create an irresistible flavor base and bring texture and brightness to your skillet creation.
Step 3: Create the Sauce and Simmer
Now for the magic. Stir the chicken broth and tomato paste into the skillet, making sure to scrape up all those browned bits stuck to the bottom—that’s where the flavor hides. Slowly pour in the half-and-half while stirring to blend everything into a creamy, dreamy sauce. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, dried thyme, and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of Creole seasoning, giving it all a good stir. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then nestle your chicken breasts right back into the skillet. Add the gnocchi, stirring them around to get coated with that luscious sauce. Let everything cook on medium-low heat for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the gnocchi are tender and pillowy.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
Remove the chicken breasts carefully onto a cutting board. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, which will melt seamlessly into your sauce, enriching it with a subtle nutty sharpness. Now taste and adjust your seasoning—sometimes a little extra Creole seasoning, salt, or pepper makes it perfect. Slice the chicken into strips and return it to the skillet, folding it gently into the gnocchi and sauce. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top before serving to give that burst of color and fresh herbaceous flavor. You’ve just made a truly comforting and impressive Cajun Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe!
How to Serve Cajun Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic choice to finish this dish, adding that bright, fresh pop against the creamy sauce. For a little extra heat, you might sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika. A wedge of lemon on the side can provide a bright zing to cut through the richness and enhance the flavors.
Side Dishes
This skillet meal is quite hearty on its own, but you can round it out with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or some roasted seasonal vegetables to bring crunch and freshness to your plate. If you want to keep it simple and comforting, crusty garlic bread is always a fantastic companion to soak up any extra sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elegant presentation when entertaining, plate individual servings with the sliced chicken fanned on top of the gnocchi and drizzle a little extra sauce around the edges. Garnish with a sprig of parsley or thyme. Alternatively, you can serve the entire skillet family-style at the table, encouraging everyone to dig in and share, which totally matches the warm and inviting vibe of this Cajun Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Cajun Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe into an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen a bit overnight, so leftovers can be even tastier! Make sure to cool the skillet contents before sealing so no moisture builds up inside.
Freezing
If you want to freeze portions, transfer cooled leftovers to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. This dish freezes well for up to 2 months. Keep in mind the texture of gnocchi might become softer after freezing and thawing, but the flavors hold up nicely.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen leftovers overnight in the fridge or gently warm refrigerated portions in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. You may want to add a splash of chicken broth or half-and-half to help loosen the sauce and keep everything creamy and luscious. Avoid microwaving if possible to preserve the best texture.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought gnocchi for this Cajun Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought gnocchi works perfectly and saves prep time. Just make sure to follow the cooking instructions in the skillet and allow enough time for the gnocchi to soften in the sauce for the best texture.
What if I don’t have Creole seasoning?
You can make a simple homemade mix combining paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, and thyme. This blend will give you that spicy, herb-infused flavor typical to Creole seasoning.
Can I substitute the half-and-half with something else?
Yes! Heavy cream will make the sauce even richer, while whole milk can be used for a lighter version. For a dairy-free alternative, try coconut milk, but keep in mind the flavor will shift slightly.
Is there a vegetarian version of the Cajun Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe?
Sure! You can omit the chicken and add heartier vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or even chickpeas for protein. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it vegetarian-friendly.
How spicy is this dish?
This recipe has moderate heat thanks to the Creole seasoning. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of seasoning or omit cayenne from your seasoning blend. For those who love heat, adding extra cracked black pepper or hot sauce can easily amp up the spiciness.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to bring some excitement to your dinner table, this Cajun Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe is the answer. It’s packed with layers of flavor, creamy comfort, and a touch of Southern fire that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Once you try this recipe, it’s bound to become a go-to favorite in your meal rotation—warm, satisfying, and just downright delicious.
Print
Cajun Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun
Description
This Cajun Chicken Gnocchi Skillet is a flavorful one-pan meal featuring tender chicken breasts seasoned with Creole spices, sautéed vegetables, and tender gnocchi simmered in a creamy, slightly spicy tomato sauce. Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s a comforting dish that combines Southern Cajun flair with Italian gnocchi for a hearty and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 1/2 lb. total)
- 4 1/2 tsp. Creole seasoning (such as Tony Chachere’s), divided
- 3 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1 medium green bell pepper, seeds and ribs removed, finely chopped
- 1 stalk celery, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
Sauce and Gnocchi
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 Tbsp. tomato paste
- 1 cup half-and-half
- 1/2 cup drained chopped sun-dried tomatoes
- 1/2 tsp. dried thyme
- 1 (17-oz.) package gnocchi
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley, for serving
Instructions
- Season and Sear Chicken: Season the chicken breasts on both sides with 4 teaspoons of Creole seasoning. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 5 minutes per side until golden brown and mostly cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, bell pepper, celery, and sliced garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Create Sauce and Simmer: Stir in the low-sodium chicken broth and tomato paste, scraping up any browned bits from the pan for extra flavor. While stirring, slowly add the half-and-half to combine. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, dried thyme, and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of Creole seasoning. Bring the mixture to a simmer and stir in the gnocchi. Nestle the partially cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet. Let everything simmer over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F) and the gnocchi are tender, about 8 to 10 minutes. Transfer the chicken to a cutting board.
- Finish and Serve: Stir the grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce until melted and well incorporated. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with additional Creole seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper if needed. Remove the skillet from heat and keep warm. Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the skillet with the gnocchi and sauce. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh or quality packaged gnocchi for best results.
- Adjust Creole seasoning to taste based on your spice preference.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer a bit longer to reduce before adding the cheese.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- You can substitute half-and-half with heavy cream or whole milk for a richer or lighter sauce respectively.
