Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi: Easy Comfort Food Recipe

Let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like the comfort of a hearty, creamy dish on a chilly evening. This Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi is the kind of meal that wraps you in a warm hug from the inside. Picture this: tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a rich, cheesy sauce with just the right hint of bacon and ranch. It’s irresistible! I first stumbled upon a variation of this recipe at a cozy little bistro, and it left such an impression that I had to make it my own. Trust me, you’ll want to make it yours too!

Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi

---

• Author: Mala Barad
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

This Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi is a comforting dish featuring tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a rich, cheesy sauce with bacon and ranch seasoning.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound boneless chicken breasts, diced
• 6 strips of bacon, chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 packet ranch seasoning
• 1 pack (16oz) gnocchi
• 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped parsley for garnish

---

Instructions

1. Dice 1 pound of boneless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Chop 6 strips of bacon into small pieces.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pan.
3. In the same skillet, add the chicken pieces. Cook until golden brown and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper. Remove and set aside with the bacon.
4. Reduce heat to low, add 1 cup of heavy cream to the skillet. Stir in 1 packet of ranch seasoning and mix well.
5. In a separate pot, cook 1 pack of gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain and add to the skillet.
6. Add the cooked chicken and bacon back to the skillet. Stir in 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color.

Notes

If the sauce looks too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen it up. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to thicken.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 550
• Fat: 30
• Carbohydrates: 45
• Fiber: 3
• Protein: 30

Keywords: Creamy, Chicken, Gnocchi, Comfort Food, Easy Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy weeknights or when you’re craving something comforting at the last minute.
• Simple Ingredients: You probably have most of these ingredients in your kitchen already—no need for a special trip to the grocery store.
• Perfect for Cozy Dinners: This meal is ideal for a cozy family dinner or a casual get-together with friends. Everyone will be asking for seconds!
• Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults alike can’t get enough of this creamy, cheesy goodness.
• Unbelievably Delicious: The combination of flavors and textures is truly next-level comfort food.

This recipe stands out with its perfectly balanced seasoning and the addition of gnocchi, which gives it a delightful twist. It’s not just another version—it’s the best version, and it might just become your new favorite comfort food!

Ingredient Discussion

Let’s talk ingredients, shall we? The backbone of this dish is, of course, the chicken. I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but thighs work beautifully too, adding a richer flavor. When selecting chicken, go for organic if possible; it makes a difference in taste.

The gnocchi is the star of the show. Fresh gnocchi is my go-to for its light, airy texture, but shelf-stable or frozen gnocchi works in a pinch. Just ensure it’s cooked to perfection—soft yet firm.

Bacon brings a smoky, savory punch. Thick-cut bacon holds up well and delivers more flavor. If you’re looking for a substitution, turkey bacon is a leaner option, though it lacks the same depth of flavor.

For the cheese, I recommend freshly grated cheddar or a cheddar-jack blend. Freshly grating your cheese ensures a creamier melt compared to pre-shredded varieties.

Ranch seasoning is what gives this dish its “crack” appeal. You can use store-bought packets or make your own mix if you prefer to control the sodium and spices.

Lastly, for the creamy sauce, heavy cream is your best friend. It creates a luscious texture that coats every bite of chicken and gnocchi. For a lighter option, half-and-half works, but the sauce will be a bit thinner.

Equipment Needed

• Large Skillet: A non-stick or cast-iron skillet will do the trick. Make sure it’s large enough to hold all ingredients comfortably.
• Sharp Knife: A good quality chef’s knife makes chopping chicken and bacon a breeze. Keep it sharp for safety and ease.
• Grater: For freshly grating cheese, a box grater is perfect. It’s versatile and essential in any kitchen.
• Wooden Spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your skillet’s surface.

If you don’t have a large skillet, a Dutch oven works just as well. Just be sure to adjust heat settings accordingly. For maintenance, remember to keep cast-iron skillets seasoned, and always hand wash them to preserve their condition.

Preparation Method

1. Prep Time: 10 minutes
   Dice 1 pound (450g) of boneless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Chop 6 strips of bacon into small pieces.
2. Cook the Bacon: 5 minutes
   In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pan.
3. Sear the Chicken: 6-8 minutes
   In the same skillet, add the chicken pieces. Cook until golden brown and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper. Remove and set aside with the bacon.
4. Prepare the Sauce: 5 minutes
   Reduce heat to low, add 1 cup (240ml) of heavy cream to the skillet. Stir in 1 packet of ranch seasoning and mix well.
5. Cook the Gnocchi: 3-4 minutes
   In a separate pot, cook 1 pack (16oz/450g) of gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain and add to the skillet.
6. Combine Everything: 3 minutes
   Add the cooked chicken and bacon back to the skillet. Stir in 1 cup (100g) of grated cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
7. Final Touches: 2 minutes
   Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color.

Note: If the sauce looks too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen it up. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to thicken.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are some tips to ensure your Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi turns out perfect every time:

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When searing the chicken, give each piece some space to get a nice golden crust.
• Bacon First: Cooking bacon first allows you to utilize the drippings, adding extra flavor to the chicken.
• Timing Is Key: Keep an eye on your gnocchi. Overcooking can make them mushy, so aim for that perfect texture—soft yet slightly firm.
• Consistent Stirring: Stir the sauce consistently to prevent it from sticking to the bottom and burning.

From my own mishaps, I’ve learned that patience is key. Let the sauce simmer until it’s just right. And remember, practice makes perfect!

Variations & Adaptations

Want to switch things up? Here are some variations to try:

• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for sautéed mushrooms and use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free gnocchi and ensure your ranch seasoning is gluten-free.
• Seasonal Flavors: Incorporate seasonal veggies like spinach or kale for added nutrition and color.

Personally, I love adding a handful of baby spinach towards the end of cooking for a burst of freshness and color.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This dish is best enjoyed warm, straight from the skillet. Serve it with a side salad or some crusty bread to mop up that creamy sauce. A chilled glass of white wine or a sparkling water with a slice of lemon pairs beautifully as well.

For storage, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to restore the creamy consistency.

As it sits, the flavors deepen, making it just as delicious the next day—if not more!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown per serving:

• Calories: 550
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 30g
• Fiber: 3g

Chicken provides a lean source of protein, while gnocchi offers comforting carbs. The dish is rich in calcium from the cheese and cream. If you’re following a low-carb diet, you might want to adjust the gnocchi portion or explore low-carb gnocchi options available in stores.

Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens like gluten or dairy if you’re sensitive.

Conclusion

In a nutshell, this Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi is a must-try when you’re in need of some cozy, comforting food. It’s simple, satisfying, and easily customizable. I personally love this recipe because it brings back memories of family dinners and cozy evenings by the fireplace. Plus, it’s always a hit with guests!

Give it a try, and don’t hesitate to make it your own. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you—feel free to leave a comment or share your variations. Remember, the joy of cooking lies in experimenting and making each dish a reflection of your own taste and personality.

Happy cooking!

FAQs

Pin This Recipe!