Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi Recipe
Introduction
Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi is a deliciously rich and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and a creamy, cheesy sauce with crispy bacon and zesty ranch seasoning. It’s perfect for a hearty weeknight meal that feels indulgent yet easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 1 package gnocchi (about 16 ounces)
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning mix
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the diced chicken until no longer pink and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Step 2: In the same skillet, add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions until they start to brown slightly.
- Step 3: Lower the heat and add the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and ranch seasoning to the skillet with the gnocchi. Stir continuously until the cheeses melt and create a creamy sauce.
- Step 4: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir in the crumbled bacon. Simmer gently for a few minutes until everything is heated through and well combined.
- Step 5: Serve immediately while warm and creamy.
Tips & Variations
- Substitute ranch seasoning with your favorite herbs or a packet of Italian dressing mix for a different flavor profile.
- For extra veggies, add chopped spinach or peas when adding the sauce ingredients.
- Use smoked cheddar for a deeper, richer taste.
Storage
Store leftover creamy crack chicken gnocchi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?
Yes, frozen gnocchi works well. Cook it according to package directions before adding it to the sauce.
Is it necessary to cook the bacon separately?
Cooking the bacon separately ensures it becomes crispy and releases its fat, which adds great flavor and texture to the dish.
PrintCreamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi Recipe
Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi is a luscious, comforting dish that combines tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, crispy bacon, and a rich, cheesy ranch sauce. This easy-to-make recipe delivers creamy indulgence with hearty flavors, perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Protein
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 6 slices of bacon
Pasta
- 1 lb potato gnocchi
Dairy & Cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Seasonings & Sauce
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
- 1 cup milk (or as needed for sauce consistency)
Instructions
- Cook the bacon. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon slices until crispy. Remove them and drain on paper towels, then crumble when cool.
- Cook the chicken. In the same skillet with bacon fat, add the cooked chicken pieces and sauté briefly to warm and get some flavor from the bacon drippings.
- Add gnocchi. Pour in the gnocchi directly into the skillet. Cook according to package instructions, usually about 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing them to brown slightly and become tender.
- Make the creamy sauce. Reduce heat to low and add cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, ranch seasoning, and milk to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts completely and the sauce turns smooth and creamy. Adjust milk quantity as needed for desired sauce consistency.
- Combine all ingredients. Stir in the crumbled bacon and mix everything thoroughly. Allow the dish to simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes so the flavors meld well and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Serve warm. Remove from heat and serve the creamy crack chicken gnocchi immediately while hot for maximum flavor and creaminess.
Notes
- Use day-old cooked chicken for best texture or freshly cooked chicken breasts shredded.
- For extra richness, add a splash of heavy cream instead of milk.
- Gluten-free gnocchi can be used to make the dish gluten-free.
- Leftovers reheat well in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
- Adjust ranch seasoning to taste for saltiness and herb flavor.
Keywords: Creamy crack chicken gnocchi, chicken gnocchi recipe, creamy chicken dinner, easy gnocchi recipe, bacon ranch chicken
