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Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi Recipe

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3.9 from 78 reviews

  • Author: Chef
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi is a comforting and indulgent one-pan meal featuring tender cubed chicken and soft gnocchi cooked in a rich, creamy sauce infused with ranch seasoning, savory bacon, garlic, and melted cheddar cheese. Enhanced with fresh spinach and a touch of paprika, this dish delivers a perfect blend of flavors and textures, ideal for busy weeknights when you want something hearty and delicious with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Protein

  • 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
  • 6 slices bacon, chopped

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450 g) shelf-stable or refrigerated gnocchi

Dairy & Sauces

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese

Liquids & Oils

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup chicken broth

Seasonings & Herbs

  • 1 packet (1 oz / 28 g) ranch seasoning
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Vegetables

  • 2 cups baby spinach

Instructions

  1. Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain, leaving about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the skillet.
  2. Sauté the Chicken: If needed, add a tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Season the cubed chicken breasts with paprika and black pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Add Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
  4. Create Cream Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream into the skillet. Stir in the ranch seasoning packet and cream cheese pieces. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally to blend everything smoothly.
  5. Cook the Gnocchi: Add the shelf-stable or refrigerated gnocchi to the skillet. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, for 5 to 7 minutes or until the gnocchi are tender and cooked through.
  6. Melt Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts completely into the sauce, creating a rich and creamy consistency.
  7. Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken and crispy bacon to the skillet. Add the baby spinach and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spinach has wilted and ingredients are well combined.
  8. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve the Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi hot, enjoying it as a deliciously comforting main course meal.

Notes

  • Do not let the cream sauce boil aggressively as it may cause separation.
  • Rotisserie chicken can be used as a time-saving shortcut instead of cooking fresh chicken.
  • Add vegetables like mushrooms, broccoli, or sun-dried tomatoes to customize the dish.
  • For a leaner option, substitute turkey bacon for regular bacon.
  • Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consumed within 3 days.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://kitchenmartha.com/creamy-crack-chicken-gnocchi-recipe/