Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi: A Simple Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms your heart and fills your belly, you’ve come to the right place! This Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi: A Simple Recipe is one of my go-to favorites. It’s creamy, comforting, and oh-so-delicious—perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want to impress without spending all day in the kitchen.

Every bite of this dish brings together tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and sun-dried tomatoes, creating a flavor explosion that everyone will love. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be making it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this meal in no time.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: It’s a hit with both kids and adults, making dinner time a breeze.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize it with what you have on hand.
• Creamy Goodness: The rich sauce is truly satisfying and will have everyone coming back for seconds.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare it ahead of time and reheat for an easy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to create this delightful dish. Most of these items are pantry staples or easy to find at your local grocery store.

For the Chicken

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder

For the Sauce

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

For the Gnocchi

• 1 (1-pound) package refrigerated gnocchi
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to make it your own with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Use turkey or even chickpeas for a plant-based option.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or broccoli for extra color and nutrients.
• Change up the cheese: If you’re not a fan of Parmesan, try using mozzarella or goat cheese instead!
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes for a little kick if you enjoy some heat.

How to Make Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi: A Simple Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

In a medium bowl, toss the cubed chicken with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Ensure each piece is evenly coated. This step adds flavor right from the start!

Step 2: Dredge the Chicken

Dredge the seasoned chicken in all-purpose flour, shaking off any excess. This will help create a lovely golden crust when cooked.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the floured chicken and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes). Working in batches if necessary ensures each piece gets that perfect sear.

Step 4: Remove Chicken from Skillet

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. This lets us build our sauce without overcrowding.

Step 5: Melt Butter for Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. The residual flavors from cooking chicken will enhance our sauce!

Step 6: Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet and cook for about 1 minute until slightly softened. This brings out their sweetness which complements our creamy sauce beautifully.

Step 7: Pour in Chicken Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Those bits add tons of flavor!

Step 8: Stir in Cream

Reduce heat to low, stir in heavy cream, and let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened. Avoid boiling so we keep that rich creaminess intact.

Step 9: Add Cheese and Parsley

Stir in Parmesan cheese and parsley for added flavor just before we mix everything together.

Step 10: Cook Gnocchi

Cook gnocchi according to package directions. They’re quick-cooking little pillows of goodness!

Step 11: Combine Gnocchi with Sauce

Drain cooked gnocchi and add them to our creamy sauce. Toss gently to coat every piece with that delicious mixture.

Step 12: Return Chicken

Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and stir well to combine everything nicely.

Step 13: Serve It Up!

Serve immediately! If desired, garnish with crumbled feta cheese for an extra touch of flavor. Enjoy every creamy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi: A Simple Recipe

Cooking this delightful creamy crack chicken gnocchi is all about balance and timing, so here are a few tips to ensure that your dish turns out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh chicken and herbs make a big difference in flavor. Opting for fresh over frozen will enhance the overall taste of your dish.

• Don’t rush the browning: Allow the chicken to brown properly before removing it from the skillet. This step adds depth and richness to the sauce thanks to those flavorful browned bits sticking to the pan.

• Adjust the creaminess: If you prefer a lighter version, feel free to swap half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk or a non-dairy alternative. This maintains creaminess while reducing calories.

• Taste as you go: Always taste your sauce before serving! Adjusting salt, pepper, or even adding a splash of lemon juice can elevate the flavors dramatically.

• Let it sit before serving: Allowing the finished dish to rest for a few minutes helps the flavors meld together and makes for an even richer taste experience.

How to Serve Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi: A Simple Recipe

Serving your creamy crack chicken gnocchi can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas on how to present this delicious meal beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of bright green parsley not only adds color but also freshness that complements the creamy sauce.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: A light dusting of additional Parmesan brings a delightful salty richness that ties all the flavors together.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who like a bit of heat, adding crushed red pepper flakes provides a nice contrast to the creaminess.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Crispy garlic bread pairs perfectly with this dish, allowing you to soak up all that delicious sauce.
• Steamed broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli brings both color and nutrition, balancing out the richness of the gnocchi.
• Caesar salad: A classic Caesar salad adds a crunchy texture and tangy flavor that complements the creamy pasta beautifully.
• Roasted asparagus: Lightly seasoned roasted asparagus offers a nutty flavor and vibrant color, making for an elegant side.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re well on your way to impressing family and friends with your creamy crack chicken gnocchi! Enjoy every creamy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi recipe is perfect for meal prep! It stores well, making it easy to have delicious meals ready throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Cool the dish completely before freezing.
• Portion individual servings into freezer-safe containers.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce as needed.
• Alternatively, reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe.

Can I make Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time! Just follow the storage guidelines above for best results.

What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese in Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi?

If you’re looking for a substitute, try using nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor or any dairy-free cheese alternative that melts well!

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is no longer pink inside.

Can I add vegetables to Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Just sauté them along with the sun-dried tomatoes.

Is this recipe suitable for kids?

Yes, this recipe is creamy and flavorful without being spicy, making it a hit among kids. You can adjust the seasoning based on their taste preferences!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi as much as I do! It’s one of those comforting dishes that brings warmth and joy to any table. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a quick meal prep option, it’s sure to become a favorite. Happy cooking!