Description
Indulge in Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi, a comforting and hearty dish that combines tender shredded chicken, soft potato gnocchi, and a rich, cheesy cream sauce with bacon and seasonings. Perfect for cozy dinners, this recipe is quick, easy, and versatile, allowing customization with veggies or protein alternatives. Enjoy warm, creamy comfort food that delights the senses with every bite.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Protein
- 2 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 4–6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (or bacon bits, about 1/2 cup)
Gnocchi
- 1 package (about 16 oz) potato gnocchi
Sauce
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella and cheddar blend)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Garnishes and Add-Ins
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
- Red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños (for spicy kick)
- Steamed broccoli or sun-dried tomatoes (for extra veggies)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Cook the chicken breasts in a skillet over medium heat until golden and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side. Remove from heat and shred the meat using two forks to create tender, juicy pieces ready to absorb the sauce.
- Cook the Gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the potato gnocchi and cook according to package instructions, usually until the gnocchi float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Drain and set aside to keep the pillowy texture.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: In the same skillet used for chicken, reduce heat to medium and add cream cheese, heavy cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir continually until the cream cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and slightly thickened, about 4-5 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the shredded chicken, cooked gnocchi, crispy bacon bits, and shredded cheese to the sauce. Gently stir until the cheese melts completely and everything is well coated in the creamy sauce.
- Final Touches: Season the dish with salt and pepper to your liking. If desired, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives on top. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes to blend flavors before serving warm.
Notes
- Use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded for better melting and creaminess.
- Do not overcook gnocchi; boil only until they float to maintain texture.
- Cook bacon separately to ensure maximum crispiness before adding to the dish.
- Adjust the amount of heavy cream to achieve preferred sauce thickness.
- Add fresh herbs just before serving to brighten flavor and presentation.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 35 g
- Saturated Fat: 18 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg