Sometimes, a dish comes along that feels like a warm hug after a long day. I recently discovered the magic of combining creamy harissa sauce with tender chicken and pillowy gnocchi, and it’s become my go-to for busy nights. The spicy kick of harissa balances perfectly with the rich cream, while the gnocchi soaks up all that flavor. Curious how to make it? Let’s just say it’s easier than you think.
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This Creamy Harissa Chicken & Gnocchi recipe combines bold flavors and comforting textures for a dish that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Bold and Spicy: The harissa adds a smoky, slightly spicy kick that elevates the dish. Creamy and Rich: A luscious cream sauce coats the tender chicken and pillowy gnocchi perfectly. Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner with minimal effort.
Recipe
This Creamy Harissa Chicken & Gnocchi recipe is a flavorful and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a creamy harissa-infused sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels special yet is quick to prepare.
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons harissa paste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken cubes, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the harissa paste to the skillet and stir to combine, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add the gnocchi to the skillet and cook according to package instructions, stirring occasionally, until tender.
- Stir in the spinach and cooked chicken, allowing the spinach to wilt and the chicken to heat through.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro before serving.
Notes:
- Adjust the amount of harissa paste based on your spice preference.
- If gnocchi is pre-cooked, add it in the last step to avoid overcooking.
Time:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Serving:
4 servings
Calories:
Approximately 450 calories per serving
Cuisine:
Fusion (Mediterranean-inspired)
Equipment
Preparing this dish requires a few essential tools to guarantee a smooth cooking process. Gather the following equipment to get started:
- Large skillet or braiser
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring spoons
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
Nutrition
Creamy Harissa Chicken & Gnocchi is a flavorful dish that combines protein, carbs, and healthy fats for a balanced meal. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional highlights:
- Calories: Provides a moderate calorie count, ideal for a satisfying main course.
- Protein: Rich in protein from chicken, supporting muscle repair and growth.
- Carbohydrates: Gnocchi offers energy-boosting carbs for sustained fuel.
- Fats: Contains healthy fats from cream and olive oil, essential for nutrient absorption.
- Fiber: Includes vegetables like spinach, adding fiber for digestive health.
- Vitamins & Minerals: Packed with vitamins A, C, and iron from harissa and spinach.
- Spices: Harissa adds antioxidants and anti-inflammatory benefits.
What to Serve With This Recipe
I love pairing this creamy harissa chicken and gnocchi with roasted vegetables for a hearty touch, or a fresh green salad to balance the richness. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up the sauce, and steamed rice works great if you want something extra filling. Let me know what sides you’d try with this dish!
Roasted Vegetables
A few roasted vegetables can really take your meal to the next level, turning a simple dish into something special. I love experimenting with roasted vegetable combinations, like carrots, parsnips, and Brussels sprouts, or seasonal vegetable options such as zucchini and bell peppers in summer. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness, and tossing them with olive oil, salt, and herbs makes them the perfect, effortless side.
Garlic Bread
Garlic bread’s crispy edges and buttery, garlicky aroma make it a no-brainer pairing for this creamy harissa chicken and gnocchi. The rich garlic flavors in the bread complement the dish’s spiciness perfectly. I love adding simple bread toppings like parsley or a sprinkle of parmesan for extra flair. It’s easy to make and so satisfying, especially when you dip it into that creamy sauce. Try it—it’s a game-changer!
Green Salad
Pairing this creamy harissa chicken and gnocchi with a fresh green salad can brighten up the meal and balance its richness. I love adding mixed greens, crunchy cucumbers, and juicy cherry tomatoes for varied salad textures. A zesty vinaigrette or creamy ranch are my go-to tasty dressings. It’s light, invigorating, and makes the whole plate feel complete without stealing the spotlight from the main dish.
Steamed Rice
While a green salad adds freshness, sometimes I’m in the mood for something heartier to go with this creamy harissa chicken and gnocchi. Steamed rice varieties like jasmine, basmati, or even brown rice soak up the sauce beautifully. Using rice cooking techniques like rinsing before boiling or using a rice cooker guarantees fluffy results. It’s comforting, simple, and balances the dish’s rich flavors perfectly. A personal favorite of mine!
Crusty Baguette
There’s something so satisfying about tearing into a crusty baguette, especially when it’s served alongside a dish like creamy harissa chicken and gnocchi. I love how the crispy exterior and soft inside soak up the flavorful sauce. For the best results, try baking techniques that create a golden, crackly crust. Serving suggestions? Slice it warm, drizzle with olive oil, or even toast it slightly for extra crunch. It’s the perfect companion!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Regular Yogurt Instead of Greek Yogurt?
I’m in the same boat wondering about yogurt types for recipes. I’d say yes, regular yogurt works with some recipe modifications. It’s thinner, so I’d strain it or reduce liquids to keep the texture intact.
Is Harissa Paste Spicy and Can I Adjust the Heat?
Harissa paste can be spicy, but its heat levels vary by harissa varieties. I’ll often start with less and adjust to taste, adding more gradually if I want it hotter or mixing in milder ingredients.
Can I Substitute Gnocchi With Pasta or Rice?
I’m in the same boat—substituting gnocchi works easily with pasta types like penne or fusilli, or rice variations such as jasmine or basmati. It’s a simple swap that’ll still make the dish shine.
How Do I Store and Reheat Leftovers?
I always transfer my leftovers to an airtight container for proper leftover storage, keeping them in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, I use a skillet or microwave with a splash of liquid to retain moisture.
Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
If I want to make it dairy-free, I’ll use dairy alternatives like coconut milk or cashew cream as creamy substitutes. I’ll skip traditional cream and cheese, adjusting flavors to keep the richness and texture I’m after.
