Why Make This Recipe
Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi is a delicious and comforting meal that combines the flavors of creamy ranch, tender chicken, and fluffy gnocchi. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to treat yourself to something special. The combination of creamy cheese and savory chicken makes it a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and uses simple ingredients you likely already have at home.
The best part is that it’s versatile! You can customize it to your taste, add veggies, or even adjust the spice level. It’s not only filling but also packed with flavor, making it a dish everyone will enjoy.
How to Make Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
- 1 package gnocchi
- 1 cup cream cheese
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 packet ranch seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups spinach (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Directions:
Prepare the Sauce: In a large pot, combine chicken broth, cream cheese, and ranch seasoning over medium heat. Stir the mixture until the cream cheese melts and everything is well combined. This should take a few minutes.
Add Chicken: Once the sauce is smooth, add the cooked and shredded chicken. Stir it in and heat through, allowing the flavors to meld.
Cook the Gnocchi: Add the gnocchi to the pot. Cook according to the package instructions, which is typically about 2-5 minutes. The gnocchi is done when they float to the surface.
Stir in Cheese and Spinach: Once the gnocchi floats, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and spinach if you’re using it. Cook until the cheese is melted and the spinach is wilted.
Season: Taste the dish and season with salt and pepper to your liking.
Serve: Spoon the creamy gnocchi into bowls and garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh touch.
How to Serve Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi
Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi is best enjoyed warm. Serve it in bowls, topped with chopped green onions for that added crunch. Pair this dish with a simple side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. It also goes well with a glass of white wine or a refreshing iced tea.
This dish is not only satisfying but also visually appealing, making it a great option for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends. Feel free to make it a centerpiece at your table!
How to Store Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dish can last for up to 3 days in the fridge. When you are ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in a microwave or on the stove over low heat. Make sure to stir it well, as the sauce may thicken in the fridge. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up if needed.
For longer storage, consider freezing it. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can last in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it as mentioned above.
Tips to Make Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi
Use Leftover Chicken: If you have leftover rotisserie chicken, this is a great way to use it up. Just shred it and add it to the sauce.
Adjust the Creaminess: If you like your dish extra creamy, feel free to add more cream cheese or even a splash of heavy cream.
Make it Veggie-Friendly: To make this dish healthier, add more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Just sauté them before adding the chicken and sauce for best results.
Spice It Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the sauce while cooking.
Serving Options: For a fun twist, serve this dish in a crispy bread bowl or alongside homemade garlic bread for dipping.
Variation
You can easily tweak this recipe to suit your tastes or dietary needs. For a lighter alternative, consider substituting cream cheese with Greek yogurt or a lighter cream. If you’re looking to add more flavor, try using a different cheese such as pepper jack for a spicy kick or feta for a tangy finish.
For a different protein option, you could replace the chicken with cooked sausage, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian version. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability; feel free to explore different ingredients and make it your own!
FAQs
Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?
Yes, you can! Frozen gnocchi works perfectly for this dish. Just follow the package instructions for the cooking time.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time. Just make sure not to add the gnocchi until you are ready to eat. Store everything else in the fridge and cook the gnocchi fresh when you’re ready to serve.
What can I serve with Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi?
It pairs nicely with a fresh side salad, garlic bread, or steamed veggies. You can also just enjoy it as a standalone dish since it’s quite filling on its own!
Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi is a simple, satisfying, and delicious dish that brings together familiar flavors in a new way. It’s easy to make, perfect for special occasions or a comforting weeknight meal. Give it a try and enjoy a warm bowl of goodness!
Print
Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Optional Vegetarian
Description
A comforting and creamy dish combining tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and ranch flavors, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
- 1 package gnocchi
- 1 cup cream cheese
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 packet ranch seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups spinach (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine chicken broth, cream cheese, and ranch seasoning over medium heat until well combined.
- Add the cooked and shredded chicken and heat through.
- Add gnocchi and cook according to package instructions (about 2-5 minutes).
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and spinach until cheese is melted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve in bowls and garnish with chopped green onions.
Notes
Use leftover chicken or add more veggies for a healthier twist. Adjust creaminess and spice levels to your liking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: gnocchi, chicken, creamy, comfort food, easy recipe, weeknight dinner