What is crack chicken?

Crack Chicken is a popular flavor combo of ranch seasoning, cream cheese, bacon, and cheddar. It started as a dip. In this recipe, those same addictive flavors coat a one-pot dinner. The tangy, herby, and salty mix is what makes it so hard to stop eating.

Can I cook the gnocchi separately?

You can, but I don't recommend it. Cooking the gnocchi directly in the creamy sauce is key. It releases starch which naturally thickens the sauce and lets the pillowy dumplings soak up all the flavor. If you boil them first, you'll lose that starch-thickening benefit and the gnocchi won't absorb the sauce's flavor as well.

What else can I add to gnocchi?

For more vegetables, stir in sliced mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes with the spinach. A drained can of white beans adds protein. For a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when you add the ranch seasoning. If you want it lighter, use Neufchâtel cheese instead of cream cheese.

What to serve with crack chicken gnocchi?

It's a full meal on its own. For balance, I serve it with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. Garlic bread is great for soaking up extra sauce. It's rich, so you don't need a heavy side.

Why is my gnocchi mushy?

You probably cooked it too long. Once you add the gnocchi to the simmering sauce, cover the pot and cook for just 4-5 minutes. It's done as soon as the pieces float to the top. Overcooking breaks down the potato, turning them gluey. See the troubleshooting table above for more details.

How do I store leftovers?

Let the gnocchi cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It keeps for up to 4 days. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months. The sauce may thicken when chilled, that's normal.

How do I reheat leftover chicken gnocchi?

The best method is in the oven. Spread it in a dish, cover with foil, and bake at 300°F for about 10 minutes until hot. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of broth or cream as it warms. Microwaving on medium power works too, just stir halfway through.

Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi: 30-Minute Easy One-Pot Dinner

Name: Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi (A One-Pot Weeknight Wonder)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast; 1 (16 oz) package potato gnocchi; 6 slices bacon, chopped; 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened; 1 (1 oz) packet ranch seasoning mix; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half; 1 tsp garlic powder; 2 cups fresh spinach; ½ cup frozen peas (instead of spinach); Pinch of red pepper flakes

Description

This one-pot Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi features juicy poached chicken, pillowy potato gnocchi, and a rich sauce made with cream cheese, ranch seasoning, and cheddar. It comes together in just 30 minutes for an easy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

For the main components:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast

1 (16 oz) package potato gnocchi

6 slices bacon, chopped

For the creamy sauce:

1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened

1 (1 oz) packet ranch seasoning mix

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half

1 tsp garlic powder

For finishing:

2 cups fresh spinach

Optional:

½ cup frozen peas (instead of spinach)

Pinch of red pepper flakes

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Prep Time: 10 min
Cook Time: 20 min
Category: Dinner, Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 580 kcal
Sugar: 4 g
Fat: 35 g
Saturated Fat: 19 g
Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 32 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 38 g
Cholesterol: 165 mg