This Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi is a fun twist on comfort food! It features pillowy gnocchi mixed with tender chicken, a rich and creamy sauce, and just the right amount of seasoning.
Who knew chicken and gnocchi could get along so well? I love how quick and easy it is to make this dish. It’s perfect for cozy nights when you just want something warm and satisfying!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Gnocchi: The star of this dish! Potato gnocchi gives a fluffy texture. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try using cauliflower gnocchi.
Chicken: Use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or leftover cooked chicken you have on hand works great too. For a lighter version, shredded turkey is a nice substitute.
Bacon: I really love the flavor fresh bacon brings, but you can swap it for turkey bacon for a leaner choice or even skip it for a vegetarian version.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a great flavor, but you can mix it up with mozzarella for a milder taste or pepper jack for a little kick. Cream cheese adds creaminess, but sour cream can be a lighter alternative.
How Do I Make Sure My Sauce is Smooth and Creamy?
Getting a perfect creamy sauce can be tricky, but here’s how to do it:
- Integrate the heavy cream and cream cheese over medium-low heat to prevent curdling.
- Stir continuously until everything is melted and combined; be patient with this step!
- Mix in the cheese gradually, which helps prevent clumping. Keep stirring until it’s perfectly smooth.
By following these tips, you’ll achieve that luscious, creamy sauce that coats the gnocchi beautifully!
How to Make Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) potato gnocchi
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped
- 6 slices bacon
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 25-30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep, mainly chopping and measuring ingredients, plus another 15-20 minutes for cooking. Quick and delicious—it’s perfect for a weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the bacon until it’s crispy, which should take about 6-8 minutes. When it’s done, remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel to drain excess fat. Once it cools, chop the bacon into small pieces. Carefully drain most of the bacon fat from the skillet, leaving about 1 tablespoon for flavor.
2. Cook the Gnocchi:
While the bacon cooks, boil a large pot of salted water. Once it’s boiling, gently add the gnocchi. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the gnocchi floats to the surface. This means they’re ready! Drain them in a colander and set aside.
3. Prepare the Creamy Sauce:
In the same skillet with the reserved bacon fat, add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant, being careful not to let it burn. Now, reduce the heat to medium-low. Carefully pour in the heavy cream and add the cream cheese, stirring continuously until the cream cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes nice and smooth.
4. Add Cheese and Seasonings:
Next, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to taste. Keep stirring until the cheese melts into the sauce and everything is well combined.
5. Combine Ingredients:
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Add the chopped cooked chicken and the gnocchi to your creamy sauce, stirring gently to coat everything evenly. The creaminess will envelop the gnocchi and chicken beautifully.
6. Finish and Serve:
Sprinkle the chopped crispy bacon over the top of your dish. Give it a gentle stir to distribute the flavors. Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately, and consider pairing it with a side salad or some steamed veggies for a complete meal!
Enjoy your delicious Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi with its rich, cheesy, and comforting flavors!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand works perfectly in this dish. Just chop it up and add it to the creamy sauce. It’s a great way to use up leftover ingredients!
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk instead, but it may not be as creamy. If you go this route, consider adding a bit more cream cheese to help thicken the sauce.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon and chicken. You could add in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach for added flavor and nutrition. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken for extra depth in the sauce, if desired!
