Let me tell you about my Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi! This dish has become a huge favorite in our house, especially on those cozy nights when we just want something warm and comforting. The first time I made it, I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly it came together. With juicy chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and a rich, creamy sauce, it’s a meal that feels fancy but is so easy to whip up any day of the week!
The flavors are just amazing—it’s savory, cheesy, and a little bit herby, making each bite so satisfying. My husband, who usually isn’t a big gnocchi fan, couldn’t stop raving about it! Plus, if you have kids or picky eaters around, this dish is a great way to sneak in some wholesome goodness while keeping it fun. If you enjoy this one, you might also love my Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells for another family-friendly hit. I can’t wait for you to try it!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi
- Rich, creamy sauce that coats the gnocchi perfectly
- Quick and easy one-pan meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes
- Hearty chicken and cheesy goodness combined for ultimate comfort
- Bacon adds a delicious crunch and smoky flavor
- Versatile recipe—add your favorite vegetables for a nutrition boost
- Great for meal prep; perfect for leftovers all week
- Can be easily customized with different cheeses or seasonings
This dish combines the comforting elements of classic chicken and gnocchi with a creamy ranch twist, making it a family favorite you’ll want to make again and again!
How to Make Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi
This Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi is a delightful dish that combines comfort food flair with incredible flavor—perfect for a cozy dinner or when you want to impress guests without all the fuss!
What You’ll Need:
- Chicken breast – 1 lb (450g), diced. I prefer using organic chicken for its tenderness and taste.
- Olive oil – 1 tablespoon. A good quality extra virgin olive oil, like Colavita, adds a lovely flavor.
- Onion – 1, finely chopped. A yellow onion works wonderfully here, bringing mild sweetness.
- Garlic – 2 cloves, minced. Fresh garlic is a must for that aromatic punch!
- Chicken broth – 1 cup (240ml). I love Swanson’s low-sodium chicken broth for its rich flavor.
- Heavy cream – 1 cup (240ml). Horizon Organic makes a fantastic heavy cream that thickens perfectly.
- Cream of chicken soup – 1 (10 oz) can. Look for a brand with simple ingredients for a homey feel.
- Ranch seasoning mix – 1 teaspoon. Using a packet from Hidden Valley keeps things easy!
- Potato gnocchi – 1 lb (450g). Fresh gnocchi is my favorite, but dried works well too—just follow package cooking instructions!
- Shredded cheddar cheese – 1 cup (100g). I adore sharp cheddar for its tangy flavor.
- Bacon – 1/2 cup (80g), cooked and crumbled. Bacon bits from Applegate are delicious and add great crunch!
- Fresh parsley – chopped, for garnish. This adds a nice fresh touch at the end.
- Salt and pepper – to taste. Always season to suit your palate!
The Directions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, seasoned with salt and pepper, and cook until it’s no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion. Cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes, then add minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to deglaze it—this incorporates all those delicious bits.
- Bring the broth to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream, cream of chicken soup, and ranch seasoning mix until everything is nice and smooth.
- Gently fold back in the cooked chicken and add the gnocchi. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the gnocchi is tender and heated through.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the chicken and gnocchi mixture to a baking dish.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, then add the crumbled bacon for extra goodness.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Trust me, your kitchen will smell heavenly!
- Once out of the oven, let it cool slightly, then sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
- Serve warm, and enjoy this creamy, comforting delight!
Tip: Feel free to add in veggies like spinach or mushrooms to boost the nutrition and flavor even more. This dish is also great for meal prep and can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Happy cooking!
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Absolutely! If you want a lighter option, you can replace heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but keep in mind the sauce will be less rich and creamy. For a dairy-free alternative, try using coconut cream or a non-dairy milk with a thickener, like cornstarch, to achieve a similar consistency.
What if I Don’t Have Ranch Seasoning Mix?
No worries! You can easily make your own ranch seasoning by combining 1 tsp each of dried parsley, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix these spices together, and you’ll have a great substitute for the ranch seasoning mix!
How Can I Store Leftovers Properly?
Store leftover creamy crack chicken gnocchi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Allow it to cool completely, then place portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm it up on the stove or microwave.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Adding vegetables is a great way to make this dish even more nutritious. You can stir in fresh spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or even broccoli during the cooking process. Just add them after the onions and garlic, cooking until they are tender before continuing with the rest of the recipe. Enjoy experimenting with your favorite veggies!
