This Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi is a warm and cozy dish that mixes soft gnocchi with a creamy chicken sauce. It’s packed with flavors and so easy to make!
I love how quick this meal comes together! You can enjoy it for dinner and still have leftovers for lunch—if they make it that long! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shredded Chicken: You can use rotisserie chicken or any leftover cooked chicken. This saves time and adds great flavor. For a vegetarian option, consider using tofu or chickpeas instead.
Pasta Gnocchi: The potato gnocchi is soft and holds the sauce well. If you can’t find gnocchi, you can substitute with small pasta shapes like bowtie or fusilli, though the texture will change a bit.
Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess to the dish. If you need a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt, but it may alter the flavor slightly. Vegan cream cheese is also a great alternative.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter sauce, you can use half-and-half or milk, but the sauce may not be as rich. For a dairy-free version, coconut cream works nicely too.
Bacon: I love the crunch it adds, but if you’re vegetarian, use cooked mushrooms for a savory finish. Smoked paprika can also give a similar flavor kick!
How Do I Get the Cream Sauce Just Right?
Making a creamy sauce that’s perfectly smooth can be tricky, but with a few steps, it’s easy! Here’s how to do it:
- After cooking the garlic, make sure to lower the heat before adding the cream cheese. This helps it melt evenly without curdling.
- Add the heavy cream gently. Stir continuously to ensure it mixes well with the cream cheese.
- Keep the heat low and avoid boiling the sauce to prevent it from breaking. Just let it warm up!
By following these steps, you’ll create a velvety sauce that coats the gnocchi beautifully!
Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450 g) cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 package (16 oz/450 g) potato gnocchi
- 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (50 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup (50 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: fresh salad for serving
How Much Time Do You Need?
This dish will take about 20 minutes to prepare from start to finish. It’s quick to whip up and perfect for busy weeknights! You’ll love how fast it comes together, with no sacrifice on flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Gnocchi:
Start by cooking the gnocchi according to the package instructions. Usually, this means boiling them in water until they float (a good sign they’re done!). Once cooked, drain them and set them aside.
2. Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet, place the bacon over medium heat. Cook until crispy, then transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to drain. Leave a small amount of bacon fat in the skillet for flavor.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
After removing the bacon, add the minced garlic to the skillet with the reserved bacon fat. Sauté for about 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium-low, then add the softened cream cheese to the skillet. Stir it until it’s melted and smooth. This is where the creaminess begins!
5. Combine with Heavy Cream:
Pour in the heavy cream and give it a good stir to mix everything well. Warm the mixture gently but avoid boiling. We want it creamy, not curdled!
6. Season Up:
Add the onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix it all together, tasting along the way to adjust the seasoning to your liking.
7. Add Chicken and Gnocchi:
Stir in the shredded cooked chicken and the previously cooked gnocchi. Ensure everything is well-coated in the creamy sauce—this is where the magic happens!
8. Bring on the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the top. It’s time for that delicious, gooey cheese to come into play!
9. Melt the Cheese:
Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook on low heat for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbling. The aroma is heavenly!
10. Finish and Serve:
Once the cheese is melted, take the skillet off the heat. Sprinkle the crumbled bacon and chopped fresh parsley over the top for a beautiful finish.
11. Enjoy Your Meal:
Serve the Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi immediately, and enjoy it hot! If you like, pair it with a fresh salad on the side for a complete meal. Happy eating!
This delightful recipe serves up a creamy, cheesy dish that’s perfect for cozy dinners. Enjoy every bite of this comforting meal!
Can I Use Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works great for this recipe and saves time. Just shred enough to make about 1 lb and add it right in!
What If I Can’t Find Gnocchi?
No worries! You can substitute gnocchi with small pasta shapes like shell, bowtie, or even fusilli. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta instructions.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even warming.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the creamy sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Store it in the fridge, then add the gnocchi just before serving to keep them fresh and tender.