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Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi is displayed as a delicious, creamy featured dish.

Easy Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi

This recipe combines tender chicken and pillowy gnocchi in a decadent, cheesy sauce flavored with ranch seasoning. The cream cheese and cheddar create a rich and satisfying meal that's quick and easy to prepare. Garnish with bacon and green onions for the ultimate comfort food experience.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 650
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound gnocchi shelf-stable or refrigerated
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 ounce ranch seasoning packet
  • 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled optional
  • 2 green onions, sliced for garnish

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Spatula or wooden spoon
  • Grater (optional, for cheddar cheese)
  • Bowl (for cooked chicken)

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add chicken and season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Cook until chicken is cooked through and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add cream cheese, cheddar cheese, chicken broth, heavy cream, and ranch seasoning.
  5. Stir constantly until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  6. Add gnocchi to the skillet with the sauce. Gently stir to coat the gnocchi.
  7. Bring to a simmer and cook according to package directions, usually about 3-5 minutes, or until the gnocchi are tender and float to the surface.
  8. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir gently to combine with the gnocchi and sauce.
  9. Cook for another minute or two to heat through.
  10. Garnish with crumbled bacon and sliced green onions. Serve immediately.

Notes

For the creamiest sauce, use full-fat cream cheese and freshly grated cheddar cheese. Avoid boiling the gnocchi; a gentle simmer is best. Softening the cream cheese beforehand is essential. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. For a soup variation, try Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup.