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Creamy Harissa Chicken & Gnocchi

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A bold and comforting one-pan dinner featuring tender spiced chicken, pillowy gnocchi, mushrooms, and spinach in a smoky, creamy harissa sauce, finished with feta and fresh basil.

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: North African-Inspired
  • Diet: Halal

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken cutlets (about 1½ pounds total)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1½ teaspoons ras el hanout
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
  • 1 small shallot, finely chopped (about ¼ cup)
  • 8 ounces baby bella mushrooms, thinly sliced
  • 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
  • ½ cup harissa paste
  • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves, finely chopped
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1¼ cups half-and-half
  • 1 (17-ounce) package dry or frozen potato gnocchi
  • ¾ cup crumbled feta cheese, divided
  • 3 cups packed baby spinach
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh basil leaves

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken cutlets on both sides with salt, pepper, and ras el hanout.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken about 4 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Transfer to a cutting board and let rest.
  3. Reduce heat to medium. Add remaining olive oil to the skillet. Add shallot and mushrooms; cook about 5 minutes until softened and lightly browned.
  4. Stir in garlic, harissa paste, and thyme. Cook 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  5. Add chicken broth and scrape browned bits from the pan. Stir in half-and-half and bring to a gentle simmer. Adjust seasoning if needed.
  6. Add gnocchi directly to the sauce. Simmer about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender (add 2–3 extra minutes if using frozen gnocchi).
  7. Stir in ½ cup feta until slightly melted. Add spinach and cook about 2 minutes until wilted.
  8. Slice rested chicken and return to skillet. Spoon sauce over the top.
  9. Garnish with remaining feta and fresh basil before serving.

Notes

  • Adjust harissa كمية for desired spice level.
  • Chicken thighs can be substituted for extra juiciness.
  • Coconut milk can replace half-and-half for a dairy-light option.
  • Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for brightness.
  • Store leftovers refrigerated for up to 4 days.
  • Freezing is not recommended as the sauce may separate.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savorymomskitchen.com/creamy-harissa-chicken-gnocchi/