Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi

The scent of garlic mingling with tender chicken and the creamy goodness of cheese wafts through your kitchen. This is not just a dish; it’s a hug in a bowl, known famously as creamy crack chicken gnocchi. Imagine twirling those pillowy dumplings around your fork while savoring the delightful symphony of savory flavors dancing on your palate.

I remember the first time I made this dish; my friends were skeptical when I mentioned “crack” in the title. But one bite later, they were hooked! Perfect for cozy weeknights or casual gatherings, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds—if not thirds!

I still chuckle remembering how my cousin thought “crack” referred to something scandalous until she tasted this delight and realized it was all about flavor!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but adjust according to your crowd size.
• Gnocchi: Look for fresh or frozen gnocchi; both options work wonderfully and save time.
• Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for optimal flavor; minced garlic adds a fragrant kick.
• Cream Cheese: For that luscious creaminess; use full-fat for best results.
• Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth helps control saltiness while adding depth to the sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grated fresh parmesan melts beautifully into the sauce; it’s essential!
• Spinach: Fresh spinach wilts perfectly into the sauce and adds vibrant color.
• Seasonings (Salt & Pepper): Essential for enhancing flavor; season generously but taste as you go.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Cook the Chicken: Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper before placing them in the skillet until golden brown on both sides, roughly 6-7 minutes per side.

Add Garlic & Broth: Once the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink inside, add minced garlic to the skillet. Stir until fragrant for about 30 seconds before pouring in low-sodium chicken broth.

Melt in Cream Cheese & Parmesan: Reduce heat to low and mix in softened cream cheese until melted. Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese into your sauce and stir until fully combined; this creates an ultra-creamy texture.

Add Gnocchi & Spinach: Toss in uncooked gnocchi directly into the skillet along with fresh spinach leaves. Cook according to package instructions until gnocchi puffs up and floats.

Season to Taste & Serve**: Taste your creation! Adjust seasoning if necessary before serving hot from the skillet garnished with extra parmesan or fresh herbs if desired.

This creamy crack chicken gnocchi is more than just a meal; it’s an experience filled with laughter at the dinner table and satisfied smiles all around! Enjoy every comforting bite—you deserve it!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

The best way to tackle this recipe is to cook the chicken first, then prepare the sauce while the gnocchi boils. This ensures everything comes together seamlessly.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap chicken for turkey or add veggies like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition. You can also experiment with different herbs for unique flavor twists.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed to revive the sauce.

Sometimes, I make this dish when I need comfort food after a long day; it never fails to bring smiles and happy memories around the dinner table.

FAQ

Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

Yes, store-bought gnocchi works perfectly and saves time without sacrificing flavor.

How do I know when my chicken is cooked?

Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach 165°F for safe consumption.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms and veggie broth for a delicious vegetarian option.

Print

Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi

---

• Author: Rachel Simmons
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Indulge in this creamy crack chicken gnocchi, a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a rich, savory sauce for a meal that feels like a warm hug.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 package (16 oz) fresh or frozen gnocchi
• 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 8 oz cream cheese
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• Salt and pepper to taste

---

Instructions

1. 1. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, cooking until golden brown (6-7 minutes per side).
2. 2. Add Garlic & Broth: Once the chicken is cooked through, add minced garlic and stir for 30 seconds. Pour in low-sodium chicken broth.
3. 3. Melt Cream Cheese & Parmesan: Lower heat and mix in softened cream cheese and grated parmesan until fully combined.
4. 4. Add Gnocchi & Spinach: Stir in uncooked gnocchi and fresh spinach. Cook according to package instructions until the gnocchi floats.
5. 5. Season & Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with extra parmesan or fresh herbs.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Skillet
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: For added flavor, consider incorporating sautéed mushrooms or swapping chicken for turkey. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently on low heat.