Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi is one of those comforting dishes that warms you from the inside out. This cheesy, savory meal is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. With tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and plenty of creamy goodness, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. It’s a wonderful way to bring together wholesome ingredients and flavors, transforming a simple dinner into a special occasion.
Why make this recipe
Why you’ll love this dish
What’s not to love about a one-pot wonder that combines tender chicken, creamy cheese, and delightful gnocchi? This recipe is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making it perfect for those hectic evenings when you need a meal that’ll please everyone at the table. It’s also budget-friendly, allowing you to enjoy a gourmet-style dish without breaking the bank.
"I made this for my family on a Wednesday night, and they couldn’t stop raving about it! The creamy sauce combined with the bacon bits is heavenly. It’s officially in our dinner rotation!" – Happy Home Cook
Occasions to cook this at home
Whether you’re cooking for a small family dinner, hosting friends, or looking for a cozy dish for a rainy day, Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi has you covered. It’s quick enough for a weekday meal and delicious enough to impress at a dinner party. Plus, it’s kid-approved, so you can serve it with confidence!
How to make Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi
The cooking process explained
This recipe is straightforward and comes together in just a few easy steps. You’ll brown the chicken first, then make a creamy sauce before introducing the gnocchi and fresh spinach. The end result is a rich, comforting dish that bursts with flavor. Let’s break it down!
Ingredients
What you’ll need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to achieving the perfect result. Here’s everything you need:
- 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb), chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 16 oz fresh or frozen gnocchi
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup crispy bacon bits (optional but highly recommended!)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to substitute with low-fat cream cheese or add more veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers for an extra boost.
Directions
Step-by-step instructions
Ready to dive into cooking? Here’s how to prepare your delicious Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi:
- Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chopped chicken and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- Lower the heat and stir in the cream cheese and chicken broth, mixing until the sauce is smooth.
- Toss in the gnocchi and fresh spinach. Cover and let simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the gnocchi are tender.
- Finally, mix in the shredded cheddar cheese and crispy bacon bits. Stir until everything is melted and well combined.
- Serve hot in bowls, garnished with extra cheese if desired.
How to serve Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi
Best ways to enjoy it
Serving Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi is all about showcasing its rich flavors. Consider ladling it into shallow bowls and topping with additional cheese or fresh herbs for a pop of color. Pair it with a side salad for a refreshing contrast, or serve with some crusty bread to soak up that creamy goodness.
How to store
Storage and reheating tips
If you have leftovers (which you likely won’t), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove while adding a splash of chicken broth to maintain a creamy texture. If you want to store it longer, you can freeze it, though the texture of the gnocchi may change slightly after thawing.
Tips to make
Helpful cooking tips
- Don’t overcook the chicken: Keep an eye on the chicken to ensure it stays tender.
- Test the gnocchi: Fresh gnocchi cooks quickly, so make sure to check it frequently to avoid mushiness.
- Customization is key: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add extra veggies based on your preferences!
Variations
Creative twists
Make this dish your own by incorporating different flavors. You could add sun-dried tomatoes for a bit of tang or swap out cheddar for gouda or Parmesan for a richer taste. For a spicy kick, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes!
FAQs
Common questions
What can I use instead of chicken broth?
Vegetable broth works well for a vegetarian version. Just ensure you adjust the seasoning accordingly.Is this dish kid-friendly?
Absolutely! The creamy, cheesy base makes it appealing to children, and the bite-sized gnocchi are easy to eat.Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. Just combine the gnocchi and spinach right before serving to retain their texture.
With this Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi recipe, you’ll have a dish that’s not only delicious but also easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy your cooking!
Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, chopped Chopped into bite-sized pieces.
- 16 oz Fresh or frozen gnocchi
- 8 oz Cream cheese Use low-fat cream cheese if preferred.
- 2 cups Low-sodium chicken broth Can substitute with vegetable broth.
- 4 cups Fresh spinach
- 1 cup Shredded cheddar cheese Customize with different cheeses if desired.
- ½ cup Crispy bacon bits Optional but highly recommended.
- 1 tsp Garlic powder
- 1 tsp Onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chopped chicken and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- Lower the heat and stir in the cream cheese and chicken broth, mixing until the sauce is smooth.
- Toss in the gnocchi and fresh spinach. Cover and let simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the gnocchi are tender.
- Finally, mix in the shredded cheddar cheese and crispy bacon bits. Stir until everything is melted and well combined.
- Serve hot in bowls, garnished with extra cheese if desired.