This creamy crack chicken gnocchi is a cozy dish filled with tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and a rich sauce. It’s hearty, easy to make, and perfect for any day of the week!
I love how this meal feels like a warm hug on a plate. Plus, it takes only a little time to prepare—great for when I’m feeling lazy but still want something delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for ease. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey works great too! For a vegetarian twist, try using chickpeas or canned lentils.
Gnocchi: I always choose potato gnocchi for its soft texture. If you can’t find it, try using store-bought pasta like penne or fusilli. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Bacon: For crunch, bacon really adds flavor here. However, you can skip it entirely for a lighter dish, or use turkey bacon or even a plant-based bacon substitute if you want a healthier or vegetarian option.
Cheese: I love cheddar for its sharpness and creaminess. If you want to switch it up, go for Monterey Jack or even a vegan cheese option if you’re dairy-free.
Cream Cheese: The cream cheese makes the sauce super creamy. If you need a lighter alternative, try using Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese. Just be careful with the stirring to avoid lumps!
How Do I Make the Creamy Sauce Perfectly Smooth?
Creating a creamy sauce can be tricky, but it’s all about patience and timing. Here’s how to ensure a smooth result:
- Always melt the cream cheese into the heavy cream over low to medium heat. This prevents clumping.
- Stir constantly until completely blended before adding other cheeses. This is key for a uniform texture.
- If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash more heavy cream or a bit of chicken broth to loosen it.
- Be sure to taste as you go! Adjusting seasoning at the end will enhance flavors.
These steps will help ensure your sauce is rich and creamy. Enjoy the cooking process!
How to Make Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 1 (16 oz) package of potato gnocchi
- 6 slices bacon
- 2 cups fresh spinach (approximately 2 handfuls)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnishing:
- Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy crack chicken gnocchi recipe takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare and another 15-20 minutes to cook, for a total of about 30-35 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner and impressive enough for guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it’s crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain off excess grease. Crumble the cooled bacon and set it aside. Don’t forget to save about 1 tablespoon of the bacon grease in the skillet for flavor!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Add the diced chicken to the skillet with the reserved bacon grease. Season it with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken until it’s cooked through and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds or until it becomes fragrant. This will add a wonderful aroma to your dish!
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Add the softened cream cheese and heavy cream to the skillet, stirring well to combine. Heat until the cream cheese has melted and you have a smooth sauce. It should be nice and creamy!
5. Add the Cheeses:
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing well until everything is melted and fully combined. The sauce will be thick and creamy—just how we want it!
6. Cook the Gnocchi:
Add the potato gnocchi to the sauce and let it cook for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gnocchi are tender and cooked through.
7. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the fresh spinach. Stir together until everything is well combined, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted and all the ingredients are heated through.
8. Season and Garnish:
Give your dish a taste and season with additional salt and pepper as needed. Then, sprinkle the crumbled bacon and freshly chopped parsley over the top for a lovely finish.
9. Serve:
Serve warm, and feel free to add extra cheese or parsley on top if you’d like. Enjoy your rich, creamy, and flavorful crack chicken gnocchi!
Can I Use Frozen Gnocchi for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen gnocchi! Just add them directly to the sauce without thawing, and cook for an additional couple of minutes until they’re heated through and tender.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you love some heat, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while sautéing the garlic. You can also use spicy sausage instead of bacon for an extra kick.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything up to step 7, then refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, just reheat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream if needed to refresh the sauce.
What Is the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.