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Crack Chicken Gnocchi Creamy Comfort Food Recipe

by on September 20, 2025

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Crack Chicken Gnocchi is your new go-to dish for creamy comfort! This recipe brings together tender gnocchi, shredded chicken, and a rich sauce that will warm your heart. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a cozy weekend dish, you’ll love how easy it is to make. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to whip up this delicious meal that everyone will crave!

- 1 lb (450g) gnocchi - 1 lb (450g) cooked shredded chicken - 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth - 1 cup (240g) cream cheese, softened - 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream - 1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese - 1 cup (150g) frozen peas - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon paprika - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning - Salt and pepper to taste - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish This dish is all about comfort, and the ingredients make it shine. First, we have gnocchi, which are soft potato dumplings. They soak up all the sauce and add a fluffy texture. Next, the cooked shredded chicken is key. It adds protein and a savory flavor. You can use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken for ease. Then, we need chicken broth. It brings richness and depth. Cream cheese and heavy cream create a creamy sauce that hugs each piece of gnocchi. The cheese adds tang, while the cream makes it smooth. Shredded cheddar cheese adds a nice sharpness to the dish. Frozen peas bring a pop of color and sweetness. Garlic gives a wonderful aroma. The onion powder and garlic powder boost the flavor without much fuss. Paprika adds a hint of smokiness. Italian seasoning brings herbs into play for added depth. Finally, adjust with salt and pepper to balance all the flavors. The fresh parsley not only makes the dish look pretty; it also adds a fresh taste. Gather these ingredients, and you are ready to make a meal that warms the heart! {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add salt to the water. Once it’s boiling, add 1 lb of gnocchi. Cook according to the package directions. When the gnocchi float to the top, they are done. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Drain them carefully and set them aside. In a big skillet, heat over medium. Add 1 lb of cooked, shredded chicken. Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth. Then, add 1 cup of softened cream cheese. Stir it well until it melts into the broth. This will form a creamy base for your sauce. Next, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream. Mix until the sauce is smooth. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This helps the flavors blend and the sauce thicken slightly. After that, stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until it melts. Then, add 1 cup of frozen peas. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the peas are warmed through. Now it’s time to bring it all together. Gently fold the cooked gnocchi into the sauce. Make sure every piece is coated well. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish your dish with 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley. This adds a nice color and fresh flavor. Serve this creamy comfort food warm. Enjoy every bite! To cook gnocchi right, start with a big pot. Fill it with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add the gnocchi and watch closely. When they float, they are done. This usually takes about two to three minutes. Drain them well and set aside. Do not rinse, as this washes away the flavor. To store leftover Crack Chicken Gnocchi, let it cool first. Use an airtight container to keep it fresh. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to store it longer, freeze it. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container. It will last for up to three months in the freezer. If you need to adjust the recipe, here are some smart swaps: - Use plant-based cream cheese for a dairy-free option. - Swap heavy cream for coconut cream for a lighter choice. - For gluten-free gnocchi, look for brands made with rice or corn flour. - Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version. These swaps will help you enjoy a tasty meal that fits your needs. Pro Tips Cook Gnocchi Al Dente: To achieve the perfect texture, make sure to cook the gnocchi just until they float in the boiling water. This ensures they remain tender yet firm, providing the ideal bite in your dish. Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quick and easy preparation, consider using store-bought rotisserie chicken. This saves time and adds extra flavor to your dish without the need for cooking raw chicken. Experiment with Cheese: While cheddar is delicious, feel free to mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a unique flavor profile. This can elevate the creaminess and overall taste of the sauce. Add Fresh Herbs: Along with parsley, try incorporating fresh basil or thyme for added freshness and depth of flavor. A sprinkle just before serving can enhance the aroma and visual appeal of the dish. {{image_2}} You can boost the nutrition by adding more veggies. Try spinach or kale for a pop of color and taste. You can also add bell peppers or carrots for extra crunch. Simply chop them up and add them when you mix in the peas. This makes your meal brighter and more fun to eat. If you like heat, add some spice! Red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños can bring a kick. Start with a little, taste, and then add more if you want. You can also swap some of the paprika for cayenne pepper for a smoky flavor with heat. This way, you can make the dish fit your taste buds. You can create a lighter version of this dish too. Instead of heavy cream, use half-and-half or a plant-based milk. You can also cut back on the cream cheese. This keeps the dish creamy but lowers the calories. A lighter version is still rich and tasty, making it perfect for any meal. You can store leftover Crack Chicken Gnocchi in your fridge. Place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to three days. When you are ready to eat, check for any changes in smell or color. If it seems okay, you can reheat it. To freeze this dish, first let it cool completely. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. You can freeze it for up to three months. When you want to eat it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. To reheat, you can use the stovetop or microwave. If using the stovetop, add a splash of chicken broth. Heat it over low heat, stirring gently. If you prefer the microwave, place it in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. This helps it heat evenly. Always check that it's hot throughout before serving. Yes, you can use store-bought gnocchi. It saves time and is very easy. Look for fresh or frozen gnocchi at your store. They cook quickly and taste great in this dish. Just follow the package instructions for cooking. I recommend using cooked and shredded chicken breast. It’s lean and has a mild taste. You can use leftover rotisserie chicken too. This option adds flavor and makes prep faster. Just shred it and mix it into the sauce. To make Crack Chicken Gnocchi gluten-free, choose gluten-free gnocchi. Many brands offer this option now. Be sure to check the label. The other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so you are mostly set! Yes, you can make it in advance! Prepare the dish and store it in the fridge. When you are ready to eat, just reheat it. Add a splash of cream if it seems too thick. This makes it creamy and fresh again. This dish pairs well with a light salad. A simple green salad adds freshness. You can also serve garlic bread for a tasty side. The bread soaks up the creamy sauce perfectly! In this article, we explored a tasty Crack Chicken Gnocchi recipe. You learned about key ingredients, from gnocchi to fresh parsley. The step-by-step instructions made cooking simple, and our tips will help you improve your dish. Don’t be afraid to experiment with variations to fit your taste. Remember, cooking should be fun! Now, grab those ingredients and enjoy making this hearty meal. You’ll impress your family and friends with your skills. Happy cooking!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Comforting Flavor: This dish combines creamy textures with savory chicken, making it a perfect comfort food option for any night of the week.
  2. Quick and Easy: With a total preparation time of just 30 minutes, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
  3. Versatile Ingredients: The recipe allows for substitutions such as adding your favorite vegetables or using different types of cheese, making it customizable to your taste.
  4. Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this flavorful meal, making it a great choice for family dinners.

Ingredients

Detailed Ingredient List

– 1 lb (450g) gnocchi

– 1 lb (450g) cooked shredded chicken

– 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth

– 1 cup (240g) cream cheese, softened

– 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream

– 1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese

– 1 cup (150g) frozen peas

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 teaspoon onion powder

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1 teaspoon paprika

– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish

This dish is all about comfort, and the ingredients make it shine. First, we have gnocchi, which are soft potato dumplings. They soak up all the sauce and add a fluffy texture.

Next, the cooked shredded chicken is key. It adds protein and a savory flavor. You can use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken for ease.

Then, we need chicken broth. It brings richness and depth.

Cream cheese and heavy cream create a creamy sauce that hugs each piece of gnocchi. The cheese adds tang, while the cream makes it smooth.

Shredded cheddar cheese adds a nice sharpness to the dish. Frozen peas bring a pop of color and sweetness.

Garlic gives a wonderful aroma. The onion powder and garlic powder boost the flavor without much fuss.

Paprika adds a hint of smokiness. Italian seasoning brings herbs into play for added depth.

Finally, adjust with salt and pepper to balance all the flavors.

The fresh parsley not only makes the dish look pretty; it also adds a fresh taste.

Gather these ingredients, and you are ready to make a meal that warms the heart!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Gnocchi

Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add salt to the water. Once it’s boiling, add 1 lb of gnocchi. Cook according to the package directions. When the gnocchi float to the top, they are done. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Drain them carefully and set them aside.

Preparing the Sauce

In a big skillet, heat over medium. Add 1 lb of cooked, shredded chicken. Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth. Then, add 1 cup of softened cream cheese. Stir it well until it melts into the broth. This will form a creamy base for your sauce.

Incorporating Cheese and Vegetables

Next, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream. Mix until the sauce is smooth. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This helps the flavors blend and the sauce thicken slightly.

After that, stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until it melts. Then, add 1 cup of frozen peas. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the peas are warmed through.

Combining Gnocchi with Sauce

Now it’s time to bring it all together. Gently fold the cooked gnocchi into the sauce. Make sure every piece is coated well. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.

Serving Suggestions

Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish your dish with 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley. This adds a nice color and fresh flavor. Serve this creamy comfort food warm. Enjoy every bite!

Tips & Tricks

How to Cook Gnocchi Perfectly

To cook gnocchi right, start with a big pot. Fill it with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add the gnocchi and watch closely. When they float, they are done. This usually takes about two to three minutes. Drain them well and set aside. Do not rinse, as this washes away the flavor.

Best Ways to Store Leftovers

To store leftover Crack Chicken Gnocchi, let it cool first. Use an airtight container to keep it fresh. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to store it longer, freeze it. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container. It will last for up to three months in the freezer.

Ingredient Substitutions for Dietary Needs

If you need to adjust the recipe, here are some smart swaps:

– Use plant-based cream cheese for a dairy-free option.

– Swap heavy cream for coconut cream for a lighter choice.

– For gluten-free gnocchi, look for brands made with rice or corn flour.

– Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.

These swaps will help you enjoy a tasty meal that fits your needs.

Pro Tips

  1. Cook Gnocchi Al Dente: To achieve the perfect texture, make sure to cook the gnocchi just until they float in the boiling water. This ensures they remain tender yet firm, providing the ideal bite in your dish.
  2. Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quick and easy preparation, consider using store-bought rotisserie chicken. This saves time and adds extra flavor to your dish without the need for cooking raw chicken.
  3. Experiment with Cheese: While cheddar is delicious, feel free to mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a unique flavor profile. This can elevate the creaminess and overall taste of the sauce.
  4. Add Fresh Herbs: Along with parsley, try incorporating fresh basil or thyme for added freshness and depth of flavor. A sprinkle just before serving can enhance the aroma and visual appeal of the dish.

Variations

Adding More Vegetables

You can boost the nutrition by adding more veggies. Try spinach or kale for a pop of color and taste. You can also add bell peppers or carrots for extra crunch. Simply chop them up and add them when you mix in the peas. This makes your meal brighter and more fun to eat.

Spice It Up: Variations in Heat

If you like heat, add some spice! Red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños can bring a kick. Start with a little, taste, and then add more if you want. You can also swap some of the paprika for cayenne pepper for a smoky flavor with heat. This way, you can make the dish fit your taste buds.

Creamy vs. Lighter Versions

You can create a lighter version of this dish too. Instead of heavy cream, use half-and-half or a plant-based milk. You can also cut back on the cream cheese. This keeps the dish creamy but lowers the calories. A lighter version is still rich and tasty, making it perfect for any meal.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Guidelines

You can store leftover Crack Chicken Gnocchi in your fridge. Place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to three days. When you are ready to eat, check for any changes in smell or color. If it seems okay, you can reheat it.

Freezing Instructions

To freeze this dish, first let it cool completely. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. You can freeze it for up to three months. When you want to eat it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating Tips

To reheat, you can use the stovetop or microwave. If using the stovetop, add a splash of chicken broth. Heat it over low heat, stirring gently. If you prefer the microwave, place it in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. This helps it heat evenly. Always check that it’s hot throughout before serving.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

Yes, you can use store-bought gnocchi. It saves time and is very easy. Look for fresh or frozen gnocchi at your store. They cook quickly and taste great in this dish. Just follow the package instructions for cooking.

What is the best type of chicken to use?

I recommend using cooked and shredded chicken breast. It’s lean and has a mild taste. You can use leftover rotisserie chicken too. This option adds flavor and makes prep faster. Just shred it and mix it into the sauce.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make Crack Chicken Gnocchi gluten-free, choose gluten-free gnocchi. Many brands offer this option now. Be sure to check the label. The other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so you are mostly set!

Can I make Crack Chicken Gnocchi in advance?

Yes, you can make it in advance! Prepare the dish and store it in the fridge. When you are ready to eat, just reheat it. Add a splash of cream if it seems too thick. This makes it creamy and fresh again.

What can I serve with Crack Chicken Gnocchi?

This dish pairs well with a light salad. A simple green salad adds freshness. You can also serve garlic bread for a tasty side. The bread soaks up the creamy sauce perfectly!

In this article, we explored a tasty Crack Chicken Gnocchi recipe. You learned about key ingredients, from gnocchi to fresh parsley. The step-by-step instructions made cooking simple, and our tips will help you improve your dish.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with variations to fit your taste. Remember, cooking should be fun! Now, grab those ingredients and enjoy making this hearty meal. You’ll impress your family and friends with your skills. Happy cookin

- 1 lb (450g) gnocchi - 1 lb (450g) cooked shredded chicken - 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth - 1 cup (240g) cream cheese, softened - 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream - 1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese - 1 cup (150g) frozen peas - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon paprika - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning - Salt and pepper to taste - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish This dish is all about comfort, and the ingredients make it shine. First, we have gnocchi, which are soft potato dumplings. They soak up all the sauce and add a fluffy texture. Next, the cooked shredded chicken is key. It adds protein and a savory flavor. You can use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken for ease. Then, we need chicken broth. It brings richness and depth. Cream cheese and heavy cream create a creamy sauce that hugs each piece of gnocchi. The cheese adds tang, while the cream makes it smooth. Shredded cheddar cheese adds a nice sharpness to the dish. Frozen peas bring a pop of color and sweetness. Garlic gives a wonderful aroma. The onion powder and garlic powder boost the flavor without much fuss. Paprika adds a hint of smokiness. Italian seasoning brings herbs into play for added depth. Finally, adjust with salt and pepper to balance all the flavors. The fresh parsley not only makes the dish look pretty; it also adds a fresh taste. Gather these ingredients, and you are ready to make a meal that warms the heart! {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add salt to the water. Once it’s boiling, add 1 lb of gnocchi. Cook according to the package directions. When the gnocchi float to the top, they are done. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Drain them carefully and set them aside. In a big skillet, heat over medium. Add 1 lb of cooked, shredded chicken. Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth. Then, add 1 cup of softened cream cheese. Stir it well until it melts into the broth. This will form a creamy base for your sauce. Next, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream. Mix until the sauce is smooth. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This helps the flavors blend and the sauce thicken slightly. After that, stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until it melts. Then, add 1 cup of frozen peas. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the peas are warmed through. Now it’s time to bring it all together. Gently fold the cooked gnocchi into the sauce. Make sure every piece is coated well. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish your dish with 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley. This adds a nice color and fresh flavor. Serve this creamy comfort food warm. Enjoy every bite! To cook gnocchi right, start with a big pot. Fill it with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add the gnocchi and watch closely. When they float, they are done. This usually takes about two to three minutes. Drain them well and set aside. Do not rinse, as this washes away the flavor. To store leftover Crack Chicken Gnocchi, let it cool first. Use an airtight container to keep it fresh. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to store it longer, freeze it. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container. It will last for up to three months in the freezer. If you need to adjust the recipe, here are some smart swaps: - Use plant-based cream cheese for a dairy-free option. - Swap heavy cream for coconut cream for a lighter choice. - For gluten-free gnocchi, look for brands made with rice or corn flour. - Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version. These swaps will help you enjoy a tasty meal that fits your needs. Pro Tips Cook Gnocchi Al Dente: To achieve the perfect texture, make sure to cook the gnocchi just until they float in the boiling water. This ensures they remain tender yet firm, providing the ideal bite in your dish. Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quick and easy preparation, consider using store-bought rotisserie chicken. This saves time and adds extra flavor to your dish without the need for cooking raw chicken. Experiment with Cheese: While cheddar is delicious, feel free to mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a unique flavor profile. This can elevate the creaminess and overall taste of the sauce. Add Fresh Herbs: Along with parsley, try incorporating fresh basil or thyme for added freshness and depth of flavor. A sprinkle just before serving can enhance the aroma and visual appeal of the dish. {{image_2}} You can boost the nutrition by adding more veggies. Try spinach or kale for a pop of color and taste. You can also add bell peppers or carrots for extra crunch. Simply chop them up and add them when you mix in the peas. This makes your meal brighter and more fun to eat. If you like heat, add some spice! Red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños can bring a kick. Start with a little, taste, and then add more if you want. You can also swap some of the paprika for cayenne pepper for a smoky flavor with heat. This way, you can make the dish fit your taste buds. You can create a lighter version of this dish too. Instead of heavy cream, use half-and-half or a plant-based milk. You can also cut back on the cream cheese. This keeps the dish creamy but lowers the calories. A lighter version is still rich and tasty, making it perfect for any meal. You can store leftover Crack Chicken Gnocchi in your fridge. Place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to three days. When you are ready to eat, check for any changes in smell or color. If it seems okay, you can reheat it. To freeze this dish, first let it cool completely. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. You can freeze it for up to three months. When you want to eat it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. To reheat, you can use the stovetop or microwave. If using the stovetop, add a splash of chicken broth. Heat it over low heat, stirring gently. If you prefer the microwave, place it in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. This helps it heat evenly. Always check that it's hot throughout before serving. Yes, you can use store-bought gnocchi. It saves time and is very easy. Look for fresh or frozen gnocchi at your store. They cook quickly and taste great in this dish. Just follow the package instructions for cooking. I recommend using cooked and shredded chicken breast. It’s lean and has a mild taste. You can use leftover rotisserie chicken too. This option adds flavor and makes prep faster. Just shred it and mix it into the sauce. To make Crack Chicken Gnocchi gluten-free, choose gluten-free gnocchi. Many brands offer this option now. Be sure to check the label. The other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so you are mostly set! Yes, you can make it in advance! Prepare the dish and store it in the fridge. When you are ready to eat, just reheat it. Add a splash of cream if it seems too thick. This makes it creamy and fresh again. This dish pairs well with a light salad. A simple green salad adds freshness. You can also serve garlic bread for a tasty side. The bread soaks up the creamy sauce perfectly! In this article, we explored a tasty Crack Chicken Gnocchi recipe. You learned about key ingredients, from gnocchi to fresh parsley. The step-by-step instructions made cooking simple, and our tips will help you improve your dish. Don’t be afraid to experiment with variations to fit your taste. Remember, cooking should be fun! Now, grab those ingredients and enjoy making this hearty meal. You’ll impress your family and friends with your skills. Happy cooking!

Crack Chicken Gnocchi

A creamy and delicious gnocchi dish with shredded chicken and cheese.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb gnocchi
  • 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

  • In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the gnocchi according to package instructions. Once they float to the surface, they are ready. Drain and set aside.
  • In a large skillet over medium heat, add the shredded chicken. Pour in the chicken broth, then add the cream cheese, stirring until it’s fully melted and combined with the broth.
  • Pour in the heavy cream and stir until smooth. Mix in the garlic, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to thicken slightly.
  • Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Add the frozen peas and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the peas are warmed through.
  • Gently fold in the cooked gnocchi until all the pieces are well coated in the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

Garnish with fresh parsley for added flavor.
Keyword cheese, chicken, creamy, gnocchi

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