Creamy Chicken Gnocchi
Hi, and welcome back to my cozy Vermont kitchen! When the air turns crisp and the trees outside glow in amber and gold, I find myself craving creamy, comforting meals that bring everyone to the table.
This Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi is one of those heartwarming dishes that wrap you up like a soft blanket. It’s rich, savory, and perfectly balanced with tender gnocchi, juicy chicken, and that irresistible blend of cream cheese and cheddar.
If you’re searching for fall party dinner food, lazy yummy dinner ideas, or simply something your whole family will love, this one’s it.
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 20 minutes |
| Total Time | 30 minutes |
| Servings | 4 |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Cuisine | American |
| Best Season to Serve | Fall & Winter |
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy, dreamy texture: The velvety sauce made with cream cheese and cheddar hugs every gnocchi pillow, making each bite melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
- Quick to make: Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe fits busy weeknights perfectly when you need something cozy without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Family favorite: With savory chicken, crispy beef bacon , and gooey cheese, even picky eaters can’t resist this dish. It’s ideal for meals for dinner families.
- Versatile and hearty: Whether you’re cooking for two or hosting a dinner for 16 people, it scales beautifully without losing flavor.
- Perfect cold-weather comfort: On chilly nights, it’s one of those cold outside dinner ideas that feel like a warm hug in a bowl.
Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi is the ultimate comfort food with tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and a luscious creamy sauce made from cream cheese, cheddar, and crispy beef bacon . It’s a quick 30-minute dinner that’s cozy, satisfying, and family-approved.
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 beef bacon bits
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Chop chicken into bite-sized pieces.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until golden brown, about 5–7 minutes.
3. Lower heat, add cream cheese and chicken broth, stirring until smooth and creamy.
4. Add gnocchi and spinach. Cover and simmer for 5–7 minutes until gnocchi is tender and spinach has wilted.
5. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and beef bacon bits until melted and well combined.
6. Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese or beef bacon if desired.
Notes
Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
Substitute spinach with kale or add sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cream cheese and less cheddar.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth to keep the sauce creamy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (300g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Ingredients List
- 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 beef bacon bits
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Ingredient Tips Table
| Ingredient | Tip Example |
|---|---|
| Chicken | Use boneless, skinless breasts for quick cooking or swap for rotisserie chicken to save time. |
| Gnocchi | Choose fresh gnocchi for a softer bite or frozen for convenience; both work perfectly. |
| Cream Cheese | Full-fat gives the creamiest result, but you can use light cream cheese for a lighter version. |
| Chicken Broth | Low-sodium keeps the salt in check, allowing you to season as you go. |
| Spinach | Fresh wilts beautifully into the sauce; frozen can be used if well-drained. |
| Cheddar Cheese | Sharp cheddar adds a punch of flavor, but mild cheddar or Monterey Jack also work well. |
| beef bacon Bits | Freshly cooked beef bacon provides better crunch and smoky flavor than prepackaged bits. |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the ingredients: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly. Gather all your ingredients before you start to make cooking smooth and stress-free.
- Sauté the chicken: Heat a drizzle of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook until golden brown, about 5–7 minutes.
- Make the creamy base: Lower the heat, then add the cream cheese and chicken broth. Stir gently until the cream cheese melts into a smooth, velvety sauce.
- Add the gnocchi and spinach: Toss them into the skillet, cover, and let it simmer for 5–7 minutes until the gnocchi are tender and the spinach is wilted.
- Add the final touches: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and beef bacon bits until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve and enjoy: Spoon into bowls and garnish with extra cheese or a sprinkle of parsley for color. Serve hot for the ultimate comfort meal.
Helpful Tips
- Cook the gnocchi directly in the sauce for extra flavor and fewer dishes.
- Want extra crunch? Top with breadcrumbs and broil for 2 minutes before serving.
- For added nutrition, toss in diced tomatoes or mushrooms with the spinach.
- Use a nonstick skillet for easier cleanup and even cooking.
Expert Tips for the Best Results
- Don’t overcook the chicken: Remove it from heat as soon as it’s no longer pink inside to keep it tender.
- Keep stirring: Cream cheese melts evenly when stirred continuously over low heat.
- Cheese selection matters: Use freshly shredded cheese for a smoother melt and richer flavor.
- Balance your salt: Since beef bacon and cheese are salty, taste before adding extra salt.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for heat that cuts through the creaminess.
- Vegetable Boost: Substitute half the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or roasted cauliflower for a lighter, veggie-packed version.
- Kale Swap: Use kale instead of spinach for a more robust texture and earthy flavor.
- Italian Twist: Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and top with mozzarella for a Tuscan-inspired meal.
Make Ahead & Freezer Tips
You can prepare the sauce and chicken up to a day ahead. Keep them refrigerated in an airtight container. When ready to serve, reheat gently, then add the gnocchi and spinach. To freeze, store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove with a splash of broth to restore creaminess.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi in wide bowls topped with a sprinkle of beef bacon and cheddar. Add a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad for balance. It’s a perfect dish for cozy nights, romantic dinners, or weekend gatherings.
If you’re looking for another quick, healthy dinner idea, try my Bok Choy Stir-Fried Beef Recipe. It’s a delicious 20-minute stir-fry featuring tender beef, crisp bok choy, and a savory garlic-ginger sauce that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Pairing Ideas
Pair this creamy gnocchi with a chilled glass of Chardonnay or a light Pinot Grigio. For non-alcoholic options, try sparkling apple cider or herbal tea. Garlic knots, roasted vegetables, or a light Caesar salad make perfect sides for this rich, satisfying meal.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to loosen the sauce. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Avoid boiling, which can make the sauce separate.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken?
Yes! Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken saves time and still gives great flavor. Just skip the sauté step and add it when mixing in the cream cheese and broth.
2. Can I use store-bought gnocchi?
Absolutely. Both fresh and packaged gnocchi work well. Fresh cooks faster and gives a softer bite.
3. What can I use instead of cream cheese?
Try mascarpone or Greek yogurt for a tangier, lighter twist. The texture may be slightly thinner but still creamy.
4. How can I make this dish healthier?
Use reduced-fat cream cheese, less beef bacon , and add more spinach or kale. The flavor remains delicious with fewer calories.
5. Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes. Substitute dairy-free cream cheese and vegan cheddar shreds. Use olive oil instead of butter if desired.
6. Will this recipe double easily for a crowd?
It doubles beautifully, making it a great dinner idea for 16 people. Use a large skillet or Dutch oven for even cooking.
7. Can I add pasta instead of gnocchi?
Sure! Short pasta like penne or rotini works well. Just cook it separately, then stir into the sauce at the end.
Nutrition Information
| Serving Size | 1 bowl (300g) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 550 |
| Protein | 34g |
| Carbohydrates | 41g |
| Fat | 32g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugar | 3g |
Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.
Author’s Note
Hi, I’m Erika Mae, writing from my Vermont kitchen where family meals are a love language. This Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi came to life on a snowy evening when my kids wanted “something cozy but cheesy.” As we stirred the sauce together, laughter filled the kitchen, and this recipe quickly became a staple. Every time I make it, it reminds me that good food isn’t just about taste-it’s about togetherness.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a quick romantic dinner or a hearty southern-style family meal, this Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi is the perfect choice. It’s rich, satisfying, and beautifully simple to make. Gather your loved ones, grab your skillet, and let this dish fill your kitchen with warmth, comfort, and smiles.
