Description
When you’re in need of the ultimate comfort food — something creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor — this Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi is the answer
Ingredients
Chicken breast: I use about 1 lb of diced chicken breast. It’s lean, cooks quickly, and pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce. You could also use rotisserie chicken or thighs if you prefer more richness.
Olive oil: Just a tablespoon to get things going in the pan. I love using extra virgin olive oil for its flavor and health benefits.
Onion and garlic: These build the savory base. Yellow onion adds sweetness, and fresh garlic gives the dish depth and aroma.
Chicken broth: One cup is just enough to deglaze the pan and create a base for the creamy sauce.
Heavy cream: Makes the sauce luxuriously thick and rich. You can use half-and-half in a pinch, but full-fat cream gives the best result.
Cream of chicken soup: Adds body and flavor. I recommend one with minimal ingredients for a more homemade taste.
Ranch seasoning mix: Just one teaspoon packs tons of flavor. You can use store-bought (like Hidden Valley) or make your own with a blend of herbs and spices.
Gnocchi: I use 1 lb of fresh potato gnocchi, but shelf-stable or frozen works too — just follow the package directions.
Cheddar cheese: I go for sharp cheddar and shred it myself for better melt and flavor.
Bacon: Cooked until crispy and crumbled on top — it’s the finishing touch that adds both crunch and smoky flavor.
Fresh parsley: Chopped and sprinkled on top for a pop of color and freshness.
Salt and pepper: Season everything to your taste.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat
Add the diced chicken breast, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for 5–7 minutes
Once the chicken is cooked through and golden on the edges, remove from the skillet and set aside
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion
Cook for 3–4 minutes until translucent
Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute, just until fragrant
Step 3: Deglaze and Build the Sauce
Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to lift any flavorful bits
Reduce the heat to low and stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 can of cream of chicken soup
Add 1 teaspoon of ranch seasoning and stir until smooth and combined
Step 4: Add the Gnocchi and Chicken
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet
Stir in 1 lb of gnocchi and mix gently to coat in the sauce
Let everything simmer on low for about 5–7 minutes, or until the gnocchi is tender
Step 5: Transfer and Top
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C)
Transfer the gnocchi mixture to a greased baking dish
Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top
Add 1/2 cup of crumbled bacon
Step 6: Bake
Place the dish in the preheated oven
Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving
Step 7: Garnish and Enjoy
Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of freshness
Serve warm, and enjoy every creamy, savory bite
