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Ultimate 30-Minute One-Pan Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi

Close-up of creamy crack chicken gnocchi featuring tender chicken pieces, spinach, and crispy bacon crumbles.

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Make this ultimate comfort food dinner featuring tender chicken, soft potato gnocchi, crispy bacon, and a rich ranch-cheese sauce. This one-pan wonder is ready fast, minimizing cleanup for your busy weeknight.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1 (16 ounce) package shelf-stable or refrigerated potato gnocchi
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, cubed
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 packet (1 ounce) dry ranch seasoning mix
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup frozen spinach (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  2. Add the crumbled bacon to the skillet and cook for 1 minute to crisp it slightly, if not already crispy.
  3. Add the uncooked gnocchi and chicken broth to the skillet. Bring the liquid to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Cook according to package directions until the gnocchi are tender, about 5 minutes.
  4. Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the cream cheese cubes until they melt into the broth, creating a base for the sauce.
  5. Whisk in the heavy cream and the dry ranch seasoning mix until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  6. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and the frozen spinach, if using. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the spinach is incorporated.
  7. Heat through for 1 to 2 minutes until everything is hot. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately from the skillet.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken breast. Add it when you add the sauce ingredients.
  • You can substitute bacon with cooked, crumbled turkey bacon for a different flavor profile.
  • If you prefer a thinner sauce, add a splash more heavy cream or chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency.

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