Introduction

Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi is a comforting and indulgent dish that combines tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a rich, cheesy sauce. It’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner when you want something satisfying and easy to prepare.

A white bowl filled with gnocchi covered in a creamy white sauce, topped with golden-brown browned spots and sprinkled with finely grated cheese. Small green herb pieces are scattered on top, adding color contrast. The sauce looks smooth and rich, pooling slightly around the gnocchi, which are plump and soft. The bowl sits on a light blue cloth on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
16 oz fresh or frozen gnocchi
8 oz cream cheese
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
4 cups fresh spinach
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup crispy bacon bits
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: 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.
Step 2: In the same skillet, add the chicken broth and cream cheese. Stir frequently until the cream cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
Step 3: Add the gnocchi to the sauce and cook according to package instructions until they float to the top and are tender, usually about 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Slice or shred the cooked chicken, then return it to the skillet along with the fresh spinach. Stir until the spinach wilts and everything is evenly mixed.
Step 5: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Top with crispy bacon bits just before serving for added texture and flavor.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, use smoked bacon or add a pinch of smoked paprika to the sauce.
Substitute fresh spinach with kale or Swiss chard for a different leafy green option.
To make it spicier, add crushed red pepper flakes when melting the cream cheese.
Use homemade gnocchi for a more authentic texture if you prefer.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain creaminess. Avoid overheating to prevent the sauce from separating.

How to Serve

The image shows a white bowl filled with gnocchi covered in a creamy sauce. The gnocchi pieces are golden brown on top with some crispy, toasted spots, adding texture and color. The creamy sauce is thick and pale, filling the bowl and surrounding the gnocchi. Small green parsley flakes are sprinkled on top, adding a fresh touch to the creamy dish. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a blue cloth napkin partially visible underneath. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and avoid excess moisture in the sauce.

Is it necessary to cook the gnocchi separately?

No, the gnocchi can be cooked directly in the sauce as it simmers, which helps absorb the flavors while cooking evenly.

Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 63 reviews

Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi is a luscious, comforting dish combining tender chicken breasts, pillowy gnocchi, and a rich, cheesy cream sauce infused with garlic and onion flavors. Enhanced with fresh spinach and crispy bacon bits, this meal is perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner that comes together quickly and delights with every creamy, savory bite.

Author: Bella
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: Low Salt

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Seasonings

3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Main Ingredients

16 oz fresh or frozen gnocchi
8 oz cream cheese
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
4 cups fresh spinach
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup crispy bacon bits

Instructions

Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chicken breasts until fully cooked through and golden on the outside, about 6-8 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove from skillet and let rest.
Cook the gnocchi: In the same skillet, add the fresh or frozen gnocchi. Cook them over medium heat until they puff up and turn golden, about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Create the creamy sauce: Reduce heat to low and add the cream cheese to the skillet with chicken broth. Stir continuously until cream cheese melts and forms a smooth, creamy sauce.
Add spinach and chicken: Stir in the fresh spinach to the sauce and cook just until it wilts. Meanwhile, shred or dice the rested chicken and add it back to the skillet, mixing everything to combine evenly.
Finish with cheese and bacon: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and crispy bacon bits over the top. Cover the skillet briefly or reduce heat to allow the cheese to melt into the sauce, about 2-3 minutes.
Serve: Once the cheese is melted and the dish is heated through, taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve warm as a comforting main dish.

Notes

Using fresh gnocchi is preferred for best texture, but frozen works well too.
Low-sodium chicken broth helps control saltiness; adjust seasoning afterward.
If you want extra creaminess, add a splash of milk or heavy cream when melting the cream cheese.
For a spicier version, add crushed red pepper flakes along with the seasonings.
Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat nicely on the stovetop or microwave.

Keywords: Creamy Crack Chicken, Gnocchi, Cream Cheese, Bacon, Spinach, Cheddar Cheese, Easy Dinner, One-Pan Meal