This creamy crack chicken gnocchi is a comforting dish packed with flavor! Made with tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and a rich, creamy sauce, it’s hard to resist.
Honestly, it’s like a warm hug on a plate! I love how quick it is to whip up after a long day. You’ll be coming back for seconds (or thirds!) in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great, but you can use thighs for extra flavor. Rotisserie chicken is a convenient alternative too, just shred it! It saves time and adds a nice taste.
Gnocchi: Feel free to swap potato gnocchi for cauliflower gnocchi if you want a lighter option. You could also make your own if you’re feeling adventurous! Just keep an eye on cooking times.
Bacon: Turkey bacon or pancetta works well if you’re looking for a healthier or different flavor. Also, you can leave it out entirely if you want a vegetarian option!
Cream Cheese: If you’re avoiding dairy, try using a dairy-free cream cheese or blended cashews for creaminess. It may alter the flavor slightly, but it’ll still be delicious!
Cheese: For the cheeses, feel free to mix and match! Pepper jack adds a nice kick, or you could use any melting cheese you like. Just remember to grate it yourself – it melts better than pre-shredded cheese!
How Do You Get the Sauce Creamy and Smooth?
The key to a creamy sauce is to melt the cream cheese properly. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by warming the cream cheese in the pan over medium heat with the heavy cream. Stir constantly to prevent sticking.
- If you find lumps in the cream cheese, mash them down with a spatula as you mix. Patience is key!
- Gradually add the grated cheeses after the cream mixture is smooth. This layering of cheeses helps achieve a smooth consistency.
Remember, the heat should be medium to avoid burning the sauce. Low and slow pays off for a perfect creamy finish!
How to Make Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 (16 oz) package potato gnocchi
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh chives or parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20-25 minutes to cook, plus an additional 15-20 minutes for baking. So, you’ll be enjoying this creamy, comforting dish in about an hour—perfect for a cozy evening!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping Your Oven and Bacon:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it’s nice and crispy. Once done, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and place it on paper towels to absorb any excess grease. Keep some of that delicious bacon fat in the skillet for extra flavor!
2. Cooking the Chicken:
Season your diced chicken with salt, black pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. In the same skillet with the bacon grease (or use olive oil if you’d prefer), add the chicken. Cook until the chicken is golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, take it off the heat and set it aside.
3. Preparing the Gnocchi:
While the chicken is cooking, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions, which usually involves boiling them until they float to the surface (about 2-3 minutes). Drain them and set aside.
4. Making the Creamy Sauce:
In the same skillet (you can wipe out extra grease if you like), add the softened cream cheese and heavy cream. Stir over medium heat until the cream cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth. Add the minced garlic, Parmesan, cheddar, and mozzarella. Stir until everything is well combined and creamy.
5. Combining Everything:
Add the cooked chicken, drained gnocchi, and half of the crispy bacon to the cheesy sauce. Gently stir to combine all those wonderful flavors together!
6. Baking Your Dish:
Transfer the entire yummy mixture into an oven-safe baking dish and spread it evenly. Top it off with the remaining shredded cheese and the rest of the bacon. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
7. Final Touches:
Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool slightly. Garnish with freshly chopped chives or parsley for a pop of color. Serve hot alongside a simple green salad or some steamed veggies to balance it out.
Enjoy your delicious and creamy crack chicken gnocchi! It’s sure to become a favorite in your home!
Can I Use Store-Bought Gnocchi?
Absolutely! Store-bought potato gnocchi saves time and works perfectly for this dish. Just follow the package instructions for cooking, usually boiling them until they float.
Can I Substitute the Bacon?
Yes! If you prefer a lighter option, turkey bacon works well, or you can omit it entirely for a vegetarian dish. For added flavor, consider using pancetta or smoked sausage instead!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if necessary to revive the sauce’s creaminess.
Can I Use Different Cheeses?
Certainly! Feel free to mix cheeses based on your preference. Pepper jack adds a nice kick, or you could use a combination of Gruyère and Fontina for a gourmet touch!