Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi Recipe
Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi is a rich and comforting dish featuring tender chicken breasts and pillowy gnocchi simmered in a luscious cream cheese and cheddar sauce. Enhanced with fresh spinach and crispy bacon bits, this recipe delivers a delightful combination of smoky, cheesy, and savory flavors perfect for a satisfying family meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Lactose
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Gnocchi
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 pound fresh or frozen gnocchi
Sauce and Cheese
- 8 oz cream cheese (full-fat), softened
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Vegetables and Extras
- 2 cups fresh spinach, washed and chopped
- 1/2 cup crispy bacon bits
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside to rest. Once cooled slightly, slice or shred the chicken.
- Cook the Gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions until they float to the surface, usually about 2-3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: In the same skillet used for the chicken, lower heat to medium and add the softened cream cheese and chicken broth. Stir constantly until the cream cheese melts fully and the mixture is smooth.
- Add Cheese and Spinach: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined. Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
- Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir in the drained gnocchi. Mix well to coat all ingredients with the creamy sauce. Heat through for another 2-3 minutes.
- Finish with Bacon Bits: Sprinkle the crispy bacon bits over the top before serving to add a smoky crunch and extra flavor.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
- Use low-fat cream cheese if looking to reduce fat content but expect a less creamy texture.
- Fresh spinach can be substituted with kale or Swiss chard for different textures and flavors.
- To make it gluten-free, ensure the gnocchi you use is made without wheat.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated on the stove or microwave.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1/4 of recipe)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
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