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Classic Crack Chicken Gnocchi Flavorful Comfort Meal

by on February 1, 2025

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If you’re craving a cozy meal that hits the spot, you’ve found it! Classic Crack Chicken Gnocchi blends tender dumplings and rich, creamy chicken. This dish is a perfect comfort food for any day. I’ll guide you step-by-step to make this flavorful meal. From choosing ingredients to storing leftovers, I’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into making a dish that your taste buds will love!

To make Classic Crack Chicken Gnocchi, you need a few key items: - 1 lb (450g) chicken breasts, cooked and shredded - 16 oz (450g) potato gnocchi - 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened - 1 packet (1oz) ranch seasoning mix - 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth - 1 cup (240ml) shredded cheddar cheese - 1 cup (150g) frozen peas - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh chives, chopped (for garnish) These ingredients work together to create a creamy, rich dish that is full of flavor. You can easily customize your Crack Chicken Gnocchi by adding more ingredients: - Cooked bacon bits for a smoky touch - Fresh spinach for added greens - Mushrooms for an earthy flavor - Sweet corn for a hint of sweetness These add-ins can enhance the dish and make it your own. For the best flavor, consider these seasonings: - Extra garlic powder for a stronger garlic taste - Dried herbs like thyme or oregano for depth - A pinch of red pepper flakes for heat These seasonings can elevate the dish, making it even more delicious. Try them out to find your favorite combination! {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by filling a large pot with water. Add salt to the water and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add the potato gnocchi. Cook them based on package directions. You know they are ready when they float to the top. This means they are light and fluffy. Drain the gnocchi and place them aside for now. Next, grab a large skillet and add olive oil. Heat it over medium heat. Add the cooked and shredded chicken to the skillet. Sprinkle in the garlic powder and ranch seasoning mix. Stir everything together. Cook this mix for about 2-3 minutes. This helps the flavors blend well. Lower the heat to medium-low. Now, pour in the chicken broth and add the softened cream cheese. Keep stirring until the cream cheese melts and the sauce is smooth. Once the sauce is creamy, mix in the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese melts completely. Now, carefully fold in the cooked gnocchi and frozen peas. Stir gently so everything combines well. Cook for an extra 3-5 minutes until it’s all hot and the peas are tender. Season with salt and pepper to your taste. Finally, remove from heat and sprinkle fresh chives on top. This adds a nice touch before you serve! To cook gnocchi just right, start with salted water. Bring it to a boil and watch for the gnocchi to float. This means they are done! Use a slotted spoon to remove them. If you want, toss them in a bit of olive oil to keep them from sticking. For a creamy sauce, use softened cream cheese. Add it to the skillet with the chicken broth. Stir slowly until the cheese melts completely. This will give you a smooth and rich sauce. If it seems too thick, add a splash more chicken broth. This keeps your sauce silky and light. Serve your Crack Chicken Gnocchi in a large bowl. Top it with extra cheddar cheese for a tasty touch. Add chopped chives for color and freshness. A side of crusty bread pairs well too. It’s perfect for dipping into the creamy goodness. Pro Tips Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quicker preparation, consider using rotisserie chicken. It adds flavor and saves you cooking time! Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese! Pepper jack or mozzarella can add a unique twist to the dish. Fresh Herbs Matter: Adding fresh herbs like parsley or basil in addition to chives can elevate the dish and enhance the flavors. Make it a One-Pot Meal: To simplify cleanup, you can cook the gnocchi directly in the same pot as the sauce after adding the chicken broth! {{image_2}} You can easily make a vegetarian version of this dish. Start by swapping the chicken for a mix of colorful vegetables. I love using bell peppers, zucchini, and spinach. Cook the veggies in olive oil with garlic. Then, follow the same steps to create the sauce using cream cheese and broth. This way, you keep the creamy goodness while making it meat-free. If you like some heat, add spices to kick up the flavor. Try mixing in some diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes. You can also add cooked sausage for extra flavor. Just sauté the sausage before adding the chicken or veggies. This spicy twist makes the dish exciting and fun! For a dairy-free option, replace cream cheese and cheddar with cashew cream or almond-based cheese. You can blend soaked cashews with some broth until smooth. Use this to create that creamy texture without dairy. Make sure to taste and adjust your seasonings, as dairy-free cheeses may vary in flavor. This keeps the dish rich and satisfying while being kind to those with dairy allergies. After you make Classic Crack Chicken Gnocchi, let it cool down. Store it in an airtight container. It stays fresh in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. Make sure to label the container with the date. This way, you know when to eat it. You can freeze this dish too! Pack it in a freezer-safe container. It keeps well for up to 3 months. When you want to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight. This helps keep the flavors intact and the texture nice. When you are ready to eat, reheat it gently. You can use the microwave or a stovetop. If using the microwave, warm it in short bursts. Stir in between to heat evenly. If on the stove, add a splash of chicken broth to keep it creamy. Heat until hot, but avoid boiling to keep the gnocchi from getting mushy. Enjoy your meal! Crack Chicken Gnocchi is a creamy, savory dish. It combines shredded chicken, potato gnocchi, and ranch flavors. The ranch seasoning gives it a unique taste that many love. The dish also has cheese and peas, adding richness and color. Yes, you can use fresh gnocchi instead of potato gnocchi. Fresh gnocchi cooks faster, so watch it closely. Boil it until it floats, just like the potato version. This switch can add a nice texture to your meal. To make this dish ahead, cook the gnocchi and chicken mixture separately. Store them in airtight containers. When ready to eat, heat the chicken and sauce, and then add the gnocchi. This keeps the dish fresh and tasty. Classic Crack Chicken Gnocchi pairs well with crusty bread. The bread is great for soaking up the creamy sauce. You can also add a simple side salad for some crunch. A green salad with a light dressing works well. This guide covered everything you need to know about making Crack Chicken Gnocchi. You learned the key ingredients, step-by-step cooking methods, and useful tips for the best results. I shared variations for different diets and ways to store leftovers. Now you can enjoy this dish anytime, with easy steps to follow. Remember, cooking is fun, and experimenting with flavors can lead to a new favorite. Enjoy your delicious recipe and share it with friends!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  2. Comforting and Delicious: The creamy sauce and tender gnocchi create a comforting dish that’s hard to resist.
  3. Family-Friendly: With flavors that appeal to both kids and adults, this dish is sure to be a hit at the dinner table.
  4. Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite veggies or swapping out the chicken for another protein.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

To make Classic Crack Chicken Gnocchi, you need a few key items:

– 1 lb (450g) chicken breasts, cooked and shredded

– 16 oz (450g) potato gnocchi

– 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened

– 1 packet (1oz) ranch seasoning mix

– 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth

– 1 cup (240ml) shredded cheddar cheese

– 1 cup (150g) frozen peas

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)

These ingredients work together to create a creamy, rich dish that is full of flavor.

Optional Add-ins

You can easily customize your Crack Chicken Gnocchi by adding more ingredients:

– Cooked bacon bits for a smoky touch

– Fresh spinach for added greens

– Mushrooms for an earthy flavor

– Sweet corn for a hint of sweetness

These add-ins can enhance the dish and make it your own.

Suggested Seasonings

For the best flavor, consider these seasonings:

– Extra garlic powder for a stronger garlic taste

– Dried herbs like thyme or oregano for depth

– A pinch of red pepper flakes for heat

These seasonings can elevate the dish, making it even more delicious. Try them out to find your favorite combination!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Boiling the Gnocchi

Start by filling a large pot with water. Add salt to the water and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add the potato gnocchi. Cook them based on package directions. You know they are ready when they float to the top. This means they are light and fluffy. Drain the gnocchi and place them aside for now.

Preparing the Chicken Mixture

Next, grab a large skillet and add olive oil. Heat it over medium heat. Add the cooked and shredded chicken to the skillet. Sprinkle in the garlic powder and ranch seasoning mix. Stir everything together. Cook this mix for about 2-3 minutes. This helps the flavors blend well.

Combining and Heating the Ingredients

Lower the heat to medium-low. Now, pour in the chicken broth and add the softened cream cheese. Keep stirring until the cream cheese melts and the sauce is smooth. Once the sauce is creamy, mix in the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese melts completely. Now, carefully fold in the cooked gnocchi and frozen peas. Stir gently so everything combines well. Cook for an extra 3-5 minutes until it’s all hot and the peas are tender. Season with salt and pepper to your taste. Finally, remove from heat and sprinkle fresh chives on top. This adds a nice touch before you serve!

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Tips for Perfect Gnocchi

To cook gnocchi just right, start with salted water. Bring it to a boil and watch for the gnocchi to float. This means they are done! Use a slotted spoon to remove them. If you want, toss them in a bit of olive oil to keep them from sticking.

How to Achieve Creamy Sauce

For a creamy sauce, use softened cream cheese. Add it to the skillet with the chicken broth. Stir slowly until the cheese melts completely. This will give you a smooth and rich sauce. If it seems too thick, add a splash more chicken broth. This keeps your sauce silky and light.

Serving Suggestions and Presentation

Serve your Crack Chicken Gnocchi in a large bowl. Top it with extra cheddar cheese for a tasty touch. Add chopped chives for color and freshness. A side of crusty bread pairs well too. It’s perfect for dipping into the creamy goodness.

Pro Tips

  1. Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quicker preparation, consider using rotisserie chicken. It adds flavor and saves you cooking time!
  2. Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese! Pepper jack or mozzarella can add a unique twist to the dish.
  3. Fresh Herbs Matter: Adding fresh herbs like parsley or basil in addition to chives can elevate the dish and enhance the flavors.
  4. Make it a One-Pot Meal: To simplify cleanup, you can cook the gnocchi directly in the same pot as the sauce after adding the chicken broth!

Variations

Vegetarian Crack Gnocchi

You can easily make a vegetarian version of this dish. Start by swapping the chicken for a mix of colorful vegetables. I love using bell peppers, zucchini, and spinach. Cook the veggies in olive oil with garlic. Then, follow the same steps to create the sauce using cream cheese and broth. This way, you keep the creamy goodness while making it meat-free.

Spicy Version with Added Ingredients

If you like some heat, add spices to kick up the flavor. Try mixing in some diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes. You can also add cooked sausage for extra flavor. Just sauté the sausage before adding the chicken or veggies. This spicy twist makes the dish exciting and fun!

Dairy-Free Alternatives

For a dairy-free option, replace cream cheese and cheddar with cashew cream or almond-based cheese. You can blend soaked cashews with some broth until smooth. Use this to create that creamy texture without dairy. Make sure to taste and adjust your seasonings, as dairy-free cheeses may vary in flavor. This keeps the dish rich and satisfying while being kind to those with dairy allergies.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Guidelines

After you make Classic Crack Chicken Gnocchi, let it cool down. Store it in an airtight container. It stays fresh in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. Make sure to label the container with the date. This way, you know when to eat it.

Freezing Instructions

You can freeze this dish too! Pack it in a freezer-safe container. It keeps well for up to 3 months. When you want to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight. This helps keep the flavors intact and the texture nice.

Reheating Tips

When you are ready to eat, reheat it gently. You can use the microwave or a stovetop. If using the microwave, warm it in short bursts. Stir in between to heat evenly. If on the stove, add a splash of chicken broth to keep it creamy. Heat until hot, but avoid boiling to keep the gnocchi from getting mushy. Enjoy your meal!

FAQs

What is Crack Chicken Gnocchi?

Crack Chicken Gnocchi is a creamy, savory dish. It combines shredded chicken, potato gnocchi, and ranch flavors. The ranch seasoning gives it a unique taste that many love. The dish also has cheese and peas, adding richness and color.

Can I use fresh gnocchi instead of potato gnocchi?

Yes, you can use fresh gnocchi instead of potato gnocchi. Fresh gnocchi cooks faster, so watch it closely. Boil it until it floats, just like the potato version. This switch can add a nice texture to your meal.

How can I make this dish ahead of time?

To make this dish ahead, cook the gnocchi and chicken mixture separately. Store them in airtight containers. When ready to eat, heat the chicken and sauce, and then add the gnocchi. This keeps the dish fresh and tasty.

What should I serve with Classic Crack Chicken Gnocchi?

Classic Crack Chicken Gnocchi pairs well with crusty bread. The bread is great for soaking up the creamy sauce. You can also add a simple side salad for some crunch. A green salad with a light dressing works well.

This guide covered everything you need to know about making Crack Chicken Gnocchi. You learned the key ingredients, step-by-step cooking methods, and useful tips for the best results. I shared variations for different diets and ways to store leftovers. Now you can enjoy this dish anytime, with easy steps to follow. Remember, cooking is fun, and experimenting with flavors can lead to a new favorite. Enjoy your delicious recipe and share it with friend

To make Classic Crack Chicken Gnocchi, you need a few key items: - 1 lb (450g) chicken breasts, cooked and shredded - 16 oz (450g) potato gnocchi - 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened - 1 packet (1oz) ranch seasoning mix - 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth - 1 cup (240ml) shredded cheddar cheese - 1 cup (150g) frozen peas - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh chives, chopped (for garnish) These ingredients work together to create a creamy, rich dish that is full of flavor. You can easily customize your Crack Chicken Gnocchi by adding more ingredients: - Cooked bacon bits for a smoky touch - Fresh spinach for added greens - Mushrooms for an earthy flavor - Sweet corn for a hint of sweetness These add-ins can enhance the dish and make it your own. For the best flavor, consider these seasonings: - Extra garlic powder for a stronger garlic taste - Dried herbs like thyme or oregano for depth - A pinch of red pepper flakes for heat These seasonings can elevate the dish, making it even more delicious. Try them out to find your favorite combination! {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by filling a large pot with water. Add salt to the water and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add the potato gnocchi. Cook them based on package directions. You know they are ready when they float to the top. This means they are light and fluffy. Drain the gnocchi and place them aside for now. Next, grab a large skillet and add olive oil. Heat it over medium heat. Add the cooked and shredded chicken to the skillet. Sprinkle in the garlic powder and ranch seasoning mix. Stir everything together. Cook this mix for about 2-3 minutes. This helps the flavors blend well. Lower the heat to medium-low. Now, pour in the chicken broth and add the softened cream cheese. Keep stirring until the cream cheese melts and the sauce is smooth. Once the sauce is creamy, mix in the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese melts completely. Now, carefully fold in the cooked gnocchi and frozen peas. Stir gently so everything combines well. Cook for an extra 3-5 minutes until it’s all hot and the peas are tender. Season with salt and pepper to your taste. Finally, remove from heat and sprinkle fresh chives on top. This adds a nice touch before you serve! To cook gnocchi just right, start with salted water. Bring it to a boil and watch for the gnocchi to float. This means they are done! Use a slotted spoon to remove them. If you want, toss them in a bit of olive oil to keep them from sticking. For a creamy sauce, use softened cream cheese. Add it to the skillet with the chicken broth. Stir slowly until the cheese melts completely. This will give you a smooth and rich sauce. If it seems too thick, add a splash more chicken broth. This keeps your sauce silky and light. Serve your Crack Chicken Gnocchi in a large bowl. Top it with extra cheddar cheese for a tasty touch. Add chopped chives for color and freshness. A side of crusty bread pairs well too. It’s perfect for dipping into the creamy goodness. Pro Tips Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quicker preparation, consider using rotisserie chicken. It adds flavor and saves you cooking time! Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese! Pepper jack or mozzarella can add a unique twist to the dish. Fresh Herbs Matter: Adding fresh herbs like parsley or basil in addition to chives can elevate the dish and enhance the flavors. Make it a One-Pot Meal: To simplify cleanup, you can cook the gnocchi directly in the same pot as the sauce after adding the chicken broth! {{image_2}} You can easily make a vegetarian version of this dish. Start by swapping the chicken for a mix of colorful vegetables. I love using bell peppers, zucchini, and spinach. Cook the veggies in olive oil with garlic. Then, follow the same steps to create the sauce using cream cheese and broth. This way, you keep the creamy goodness while making it meat-free. If you like some heat, add spices to kick up the flavor. Try mixing in some diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes. You can also add cooked sausage for extra flavor. Just sauté the sausage before adding the chicken or veggies. This spicy twist makes the dish exciting and fun! For a dairy-free option, replace cream cheese and cheddar with cashew cream or almond-based cheese. You can blend soaked cashews with some broth until smooth. Use this to create that creamy texture without dairy. Make sure to taste and adjust your seasonings, as dairy-free cheeses may vary in flavor. This keeps the dish rich and satisfying while being kind to those with dairy allergies. After you make Classic Crack Chicken Gnocchi, let it cool down. Store it in an airtight container. It stays fresh in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. Make sure to label the container with the date. This way, you know when to eat it. You can freeze this dish too! Pack it in a freezer-safe container. It keeps well for up to 3 months. When you want to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight. This helps keep the flavors intact and the texture nice. When you are ready to eat, reheat it gently. You can use the microwave or a stovetop. If using the microwave, warm it in short bursts. Stir in between to heat evenly. If on the stove, add a splash of chicken broth to keep it creamy. Heat until hot, but avoid boiling to keep the gnocchi from getting mushy. Enjoy your meal! Crack Chicken Gnocchi is a creamy, savory dish. It combines shredded chicken, potato gnocchi, and ranch flavors. The ranch seasoning gives it a unique taste that many love. The dish also has cheese and peas, adding richness and color. Yes, you can use fresh gnocchi instead of potato gnocchi. Fresh gnocchi cooks faster, so watch it closely. Boil it until it floats, just like the potato version. This switch can add a nice texture to your meal. To make this dish ahead, cook the gnocchi and chicken mixture separately. Store them in airtight containers. When ready to eat, heat the chicken and sauce, and then add the gnocchi. This keeps the dish fresh and tasty. Classic Crack Chicken Gnocchi pairs well with crusty bread. The bread is great for soaking up the creamy sauce. You can also add a simple side salad for some crunch. A green salad with a light dressing works well. This guide covered everything you need to know about making Crack Chicken Gnocchi. You learned the key ingredients, step-by-step cooking methods, and useful tips for the best results. I shared variations for different diets and ways to store leftovers. Now you can enjoy this dish anytime, with easy steps to follow. Remember, cooking is fun, and experimenting with flavors can lead to a new favorite. Enjoy your delicious recipe and share it with friends!

Classic Crack Chicken Gnocchi

A creamy and flavorful chicken gnocchi dish that's easy to prepare and perfect for a comforting meal.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 500 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
  • 16 oz potato gnocchi
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 packet (1oz) ranch seasoning mix
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • for garnish fresh chives, chopped

Instructions
 

  • In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the potato gnocchi and cook according to package instructions until they float to the top. Drain and set aside.
  • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the shredded chicken, garlic powder, and ranch seasoning mix. Stir to combine and cook for about 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld.
  • Lower the heat to medium-low and add the chicken broth and softened cream cheese to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts and the mixture becomes smooth.
  • Once the sauce is creamy, add the shredded cheddar cheese and continue stirring until it melts completely.
  • Gently fold in the cooked gnocchi and frozen peas, stirring carefully to combine. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until everything is heated through and the peas are tender.
  • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh chives before serving.

Notes

Serve in a large bowl with a sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese on top and a few additional chives for color. Enjoy with crusty bread for dipping!
Keyword chicken, comfort food, creamy, gnocchi

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