This creamy crack chicken gnocchi is a fun and tasty dish! It combines soft gnocchi with tender chicken, all smothered in a rich and cheesy sauce. Yum!
I love how this meal comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy nights when you want something comforting! Just one bite, and you’ll be hooked! 🥰
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I like using diced chicken breasts for their lean protein. You can also substitute with shredded rotisserie chicken if you’re short on time, or even turkey if that’s what you have on hand!
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds that smoky crunch. If you want a healthier option, you can use turkey bacon or even omit it entirely for a vegetarian version. Just add extra seasoning!
Gnocchi: I recommend potato gnocchi for a fluffy texture. If you can’t find them, you can use small pasta like orecchiette or even make your own gnocchi if you’re feeling adventurous!
Heavy Cream: This gives the dish its rich creaminess. If you need a lighter version, substitute with half-and-half or, for dairy-free, try coconut cream or cashew cream.
Spinach: Fresh spinach provides color and nutrients. Baby kale or Swiss chard can be a good replacement if you prefer. Just be aware that cooking times may vary slightly.
How Do I Make Sure the Chicken Stays Juicy?
To avoid dry chicken, it’s essential not to overcook it. Start by cooking it at medium heat, and watch for a nice golden color. Here are some handy tips:
- Cut your chicken into even pieces so they cook uniformly.
- Use a meat thermometer – chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before adding it to the sauce to keep it juicy!
What’s the Best Way to Cook Gnocchi?
Cooking gnocchi correctly ensures they’re fluffy and not gummy. Here’s how:
- Boil salted water until it reaches a rolling boil.
- Add gnocchi gently to avoid sticking.
- Once they float to the surface, they’re done. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes!
- Drain them right away and add them to the sauce to coat them in flavors.
Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450 g) chicken breasts, diced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cups potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy crack chicken gnocchi takes about 30 minutes in total — 10 minutes for prep and about 20 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and delicious dish that’s perfect for busy evenings when you’re craving something comforting!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it’s nice and crispy. Once cooked, remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel to drain excess fat. Make sure to leave some bacon fat in the pan for added flavor!
2. Sauté the Chicken:
Next, add the olive oil to the skillet with the leftover bacon fat, if necessary. Add the diced chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and oregano for some extra flavor.
3. Add Garlic and Cream:
Once the chicken is cooked, toss in the minced garlic and sauté everything together for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, stir in the cream cheese and heavy cream, mixing well until the cream cheese has melted and you have a creamy sauce.
4. Add Spinach:
Add the chopped fresh spinach to the skillet and cook for an additional 2 minutes until it wilts.
5. Stir in Cheese:
Now it’s time to add half of the shredded cheddar cheese into the skillet, stirring until it’s fully melted and incorporated into the sauce.
6. Cook the Gnocchi:
As the sauce is cooking, prepare the gnocchi according to the package instructions. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes of boiling in salted water. Once they float, they’re ready! Drain the gnocchi and set aside.
7. Combine and Serve:
Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet with the creamy chicken mixture, gently stirring to coat the gnocchi with the sauce. Finally, sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and the crispy bacon on top. Cover with a lid and let it cook on low for 2-3 minutes to melt the cheese.
8. Garnish and Enjoy:
Before serving, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley to add a nice pop of color. Now you’re ready to enjoy this delightful creamy crack chicken gnocchi!
Bon appétit!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure it’s fully thawed before cooking. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight or use the quick method: seal the chicken in a plastic bag and submerge it in cold water until thawed.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with plant-based protein like chickpeas or tofu. Omit the bacon or use a vegetarian bacon alternative, and ensure your cream cheese is plant-based as well for a delicious vegetarian version!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water to rehydrate the sauce if needed.
Is it Possible to Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the creamy chicken mixture and cook the gnocchi ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge, then combine and reheat on the stove just before serving to keep everything fresh!
