If you’re craving a cozy, mouthwatering dish that’s both indulgent and comforting, look no further than this Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi recipe. The star ingredient? Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work best adjust based on how many hungry mouths you’re feeding, providing tender, juicy bites that soak up the luscious, cheesy sauce perfectly. With layers of fresh spinach, crispy bacon bits, and melty cheddar cheese, every forkful feels like a warm hug. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a casual night in, this dish promises to be a crowd-pleaser that everyone will ask for again and again.

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work best adjust based on how many hungry mouths you’re feeding Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple but essential, each bringing a unique texture, flavor, or color dimension to the dish. From the creamy base to the savory chicken and fresh green spinach, every component plays a key role in making this meal truly unforgettable.

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work best adjust based on how many hungry mouths you’re feeding: Choose breasts that are even in size for consistent cooking and juicy results.
Gnocchi: Fresh or frozen gnocchi both work beautifully, absorbing the creamy sauce while adding pillowy tenderness.
Cream Cheese: Use full-fat for a rich, velvety sauce that clings perfectly to every bite.
Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth balances flavors without overwhelming the dish with salt.
Fresh Spinach: Adds a burst of vibrant green color and a healthy touch of freshness.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar melts perfectly into the sauce, providing a sharp, tangy finishing touch.
Bacon Bits: Crispy bacon pieces lend a smoky crunch that complements the creamy textures perfectly.
Seasonings (Garlic Powder & Onion Powder): These deepen the flavor profile; freshly ground powders will take this dish to the next level.

How to Make Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work best adjust based on how many hungry mouths you’re feeding

Step 1: Prepare Your Chicken

Start by seasoning your Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work best adjust based on how many hungry mouths you’re feeding with garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook them over medium heat in a little oil until golden brown on both sides and cooked through. Let them rest for a few minutes, then shred or dice them into perfect bite-sized pieces for the gnocchi sauce.

Step 2: Cook the Gnocchi

Whether you’re using fresh or frozen gnocchi, cooking them is a breeze. Boil a pot of salted water and cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions until they float to the top, signaling they’re done. Drain them well—you want them soft but not soggy, ready to soak up that creamy, cheesy sauce.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same pan you cooked your chicken, soften the cream cheese over low heat, adding chicken broth slowly as you stir to create a smooth sauce. Toss in freshly shredded cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt fully for a velvety finish, then season with additional garlic and onion powder if needed to deepen the flavor.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Now, fold the cooked gnocchi and shredded Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work best adjust based on how many hungry mouths you’re feeding into the sauce. Toss in fresh spinach leaves last so they wilt gently in the residual heat, adding freshness and vibrant color. Finish with bacon bits sprinkled on top for irresistible smoky crunch.

How to Serve Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work best adjust based on how many hungry mouths you’re feeding

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives brings a beautiful pop of color and light herbal note that brightens this indulgent dish. If you love extra tang, a quick grating of Parmesan cheese right before serving elevates the creamy goodness even further.

Side Dishes

This dish shines with simple sides that don’t compete. A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness perfectly. Roasted or steamed seasonal vegetables add a light texture contrast, making the meal feel complete yet never heavy.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the creamy crack chicken gnocchi in individual ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets. It makes for a charming presentation and keeps portions warm at the table. Or try stuffing the mixture inside roasted bell peppers for an eye-catching and flavorful entrée that will wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover portions of this creamy gnocchi dish should be cooled to room temperature before being stored in airtight containers. They will keep beautifully in the fridge for 3 to 4 days, maintaining their rich flavors and creamy texture.

Freezing

If you’re planning further ahead, this dish freezes well. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion, and freeze for up to 2 months. Just know that the texture of gnocchi might change slightly, but the flavor remains wonderfully intact.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen the sauce as needed. Microwaving works too—just be sure to cover the dish to retain moisture and stir occasionally for even heating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! While this recipe highlights Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work best adjust based on how many hungry mouths you’re feeding, chicken thighs will offer a richer taste and slightly higher fat content that adds extra juiciness.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Simply swap the chicken for hearty mushrooms or a plant-based chicken substitute, and omit the bacon bits or replace them with smoky tempeh for that satisfying crunch.

What type of gnocchi works best?

Fresh gnocchi will give you that pillowy soft texture, but frozen gnocchi is just as delicious and very convenient. Either way, cooking them properly so they don’t over-soften is key to a perfect dish.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

You can prep the creamy sauce in advance and gently rewarm it when ready to use. Add the fresh spinach and cooked chicken last so everything stays fresh and vibrant without overcooking.

How spicy is this recipe?

This dish isn’t spicy by nature, but you can easily add heat with crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you desire a little kick alongside the creamy richness.

Final Thoughts

I truly believe once you try this recipe using Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work best adjust based on how many hungry mouths you’re feeding, it will find a special place in your weeknight rotation. It’s the perfect blend of comfort and flavor that feels indulgent yet approachable. So gather your ingredients, get cooking, and prepare to savor every creamy, cheesy, bacon-studded bite together with friends or family!

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work best adjust based on how many hungry mouths you’re feeding Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

5.3 from 26 reviews

Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi is a comforting and flavorful one-pan dish featuring tender chicken breasts, pillowy gnocchi, and a rich, cheesy cream sauce. Enhanced with crispy bacon bits and fresh spinach, this recipe combines hearty protein with fresh vegetables for a satisfying meal perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.

Author: Zane
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Skillet Cooking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Low Salt

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Gnocchi

3–4 Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts
1 lb Fresh or Frozen Gnocchi

Sauce and Cheese

8 oz Cream Cheese (full-fat recommended)
1 cup Low-Sodium Chicken Broth
1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese

Vegetables and Bacon

2 cups Fresh Spinach
1/2 cup Crispy Bacon Bits

Seasonings

1 tsp Garlic Powder
1 tsp Onion Powder
Salt and Pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chicken until no longer pink inside, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Cook the Gnocchi: In the same skillet, add a little oil if needed and cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they are golden and tender, typically about 3-5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Make the Creamy Sauce: Lower the heat to medium-low and add cream cheese and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cream cheese has melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Add Cheese and Bacon: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and crispy bacon bits, allowing the cheese to melt fully into the sauce.
Combine and Add Spinach: Return the cooked chicken and gnocchi back to the skillet. Stir in fresh spinach and cook until the spinach wilts, about 2 minutes.
Final Seasoning: Taste the dish and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve warm and enjoy this rich and flavorful dish.

Notes

For extra smoky flavor, use freshly cooked bacon instead of bacon bits.
Use gluten-free gnocchi if you require a gluten-free meal.
If you prefer a lighter version, substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt, but add it at the end to avoid curdling.
Fresh spinach can be substituted with kale or Swiss chard for a different taste.
Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop.