What makes creamy crack chicken gnocchi different from regular chicken gnocchi?

The main difference is in the sauce and seasonings. Creamy crack chicken gnocchi uses a rich cheese blend, cream, and a specific seasoning profile that creates a more indulgent, savory flavor compared to a lighter chicken gnocchi recipe. It’s designed to be extra creamy and deeply flavorful, coating each gnocchi in a thick sauce.

What’s the best type of gnocchi for creamy crack chicken gnocchi?

Shelf-stable potato gnocchi is often the easiest choice for creamy crack chicken gnocchi because it holds up to simmering in the sauce without becoming mushy. However, fresh or frozen gnocchi can also work if you adjust the cooking time accordingly.

How can I make creamy crack chicken gnocchi healthier without losing flavor?

To lighten creamy crack chicken gnocchi while keeping it delicious, use reduced-fat cheese, replace heavy cream with half-and-half, and add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrients and texture.

Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi – 5 Secrets for Perfect Flavor

Name: Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American Italian
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 360g), diced; 500g shelf-stable potato gnocchi; 1 shallot, finely diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup milk or cream; 175g cream cheese, softened; 60g freshly grated cheddar cheese; 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp dried parsley or chives; 1 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Description

This Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi is a rich, one-skillet comfort food combining tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a creamy cheese sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s the perfect quick dinner for weeknights or casual gatherings. Every bite is coated in velvety sauce with savory chicken flavor.

Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 360g), diced
500g shelf-stable potato gnocchi
1 shallot, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup milk or cream
175g cream cheese, softened
60g freshly grated cheddar cheese
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp dried parsley or chives
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish

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Instructions

Poach the Chicken: In a skillet, add chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Add diced chicken and cook until just done, about 8–10 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Cook Aromatics: Heat olive oil in the same skillet over medium heat. Add shallot and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Make the Sauce: Pour in milk or cream, bring to a gentle simmer, then stir in cream cheese and cheddar until smooth and creamy.
Cook the Gnocchi: Add uncooked gnocchi directly to the sauce. Simmer for 3–5 minutes until tender and floating.
Combine: Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet, season with garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir until well coated.
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

Always grate cheddar fresh for the smoothest melting. Cooking the gnocchi in the sauce allows it to absorb flavor and naturally thicken the dish. For a lighter option, use 2% milk and reduced-fat cheese.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American Italian