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Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 120 reviews
  • Author: Hailey
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings 1x

Description

Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi is the ultimate comfort food combining tender shredded chicken, flavorful ranch and Italian seasonings, creamy melted cream cheese, crispy bacon, and tender gnocchi all covered in a rich cheddar cheese topping. This cozy, hearty dish can be prepared stove-top or baked for a bubbly golden finish, perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Seasoning

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 packet (1 oz) Ranch dressing seasoning mix
  • 1 packet (1 oz) Italian dressing seasoning mix
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Sauce

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth

Pasta

  • 1 lb gnocchi (shelf-stable or refrigerated)

Toppings

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (about 6 slices)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Sear the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Sear for about 4-5 minutes per side, until nicely browned.
  2. Slow Cook in Flavor: Reduce the heat to low. In a small bowl, combine the Ranch dressing seasoning mix and the Italian dressing seasoning mix. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the seared chicken breasts.
  3. Add Broth and Simmer: Pour the chicken broth into the skillet around the chicken. Cover the skillet tightly with a lid. Let the chicken simmer in the broth and seasoning mixture for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
  4. Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken breasts from the skillet and place them on a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Keep the flavorful broth in the skillet for later use.
  5. Melt the Cream Cheese: Return the skillet with the broth to medium heat. Add the softened cream cheese to the skillet. Stir constantly until the cream cheese is completely melted and smooth, creating a luscious, creamy base.
  6. Incorporate the Chicken: Add the shredded chicken back into the skillet with the melted cream cheese sauce. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly in the creamy sauce.
  7. Simmer and Thicken: Reduce the heat to low and let the chicken and sauce simmer for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add a splash more chicken broth if the sauce becomes too thick.
  8. Boil the Gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to the package directions, usually 2-3 minutes, or until the gnocchi float to the surface.
  9. Drain the Gnocchi: Once cooked, drain the gnocchi in a colander.
  10. Combine Gnocchi and Sauce: Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet with the creamy chicken sauce. Gently stir to combine, ensuring the gnocchi are evenly coated.
  11. Add Cheddar Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the gnocchi and chicken mixture.
  12. Add Bacon: Sprinkle the cooked and crumbled bacon over the cheddar cheese.
  13. Baking (Optional): Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer skillet (if oven-safe) or the gnocchi mixture to a baking dish. Bake 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
  14. Stovetop Method: Alternatively, cover the skillet and let it simmer on low for a few minutes until cheese melts. You may also briefly broil the skillet cheese topping to melt and brown it, watching carefully.
  15. Garnish (Optional): Sprinkle chopped green onions on top for a fresh, colorful touch.
  16. Serve Immediately: Serve the creamy crack chicken gnocchi hot and enjoy your ultimate comfort meal.

Notes

  • Using cooked and crumbled bacon adds a smoky crunch that balances the creamy sauce.
  • You can use either shelf-stable or refrigerated gnocchi; cook according to package instructions for best results.
  • If desired, bake the dish for a bubbling, golden finish; otherwise, enjoy it directly from the stovetop.
  • Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper before serving if needed.
  • Garnishing with green onions adds a fresh pop of flavor and color but is optional.
  • To speed up the cooking, use pre-cooked shredded chicken and skip the searing and simmering steps, adding directly to the cream cheese sauce.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: Creamy crack chicken gnocchi, creamy chicken gnocchi, bacon chicken gnocchi, ranch chicken gnocchi, comfort food gnocchi recipe, easy chicken dinner

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