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Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 102 reviews

Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi is the ultimate comfort food combining tender slow-cooked chicken seasoned with Ranch and Italian dressings, creamy cheeses, crispy bacon, and pillowy gnocchi all melded into a rich, cheesy sauce. This hearty dish is perfect for a satisfying dinner that is easy to prepare with the help of a slow cooker and stovetop cooking.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken Mixture

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 packet (1 oz) Ranch dressing seasoning mix
  • 1 packet (1 oz) Italian dressing seasoning mix
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup cooked, crumbled bacon (about 6 slices)
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: Red pepper flakes for heat

Gnocchi and Cheese

  • 1 (17.6 oz) package gnocchi
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Season the Chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in your slow cooker. Evenly sprinkle both the Ranch dressing seasoning mix and Italian dressing seasoning mix over the chicken to infuse flavor.
  2. Add Broth and Cream Cheese: Pour the chicken broth over the chicken in the slow cooker. Cut the softened cream cheese into cubes and add it on top to help it melt evenly and create a creamy base.
  3. Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook the chicken on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is very tender and easy to shred.
  4. Shred the Chicken: Remove the cooked chicken breasts from the slow cooker. Using two forks or a hand mixer on low speed, shred the chicken finely for a smooth texture.
  5. Return to Slow Cooker: Place the shredded chicken back into the slow cooker with the melted cream cheese and broth mixture. Stir thoroughly until everything is combined into a creamy sauce.
  6. Boil Water: Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil on the stovetop, preparing to cook the gnocchi.
  7. Cook the Gnocchi: Add the gnocchi to the boiling water. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the gnocchi float to the surface, indicating they are done.
  8. Drain the Gnocchi: Immediately drain the cooked gnocchi in a colander to prevent overcooking.
  9. Add Heavy Cream: Pour the heavy cream into the slow cooker with the creamy chicken mixture, stirring well to combine for a rich consistency.
  10. Add Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue mixing until all the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and cheesy.
  11. Add Bacon and Green Onions: Fold in the cooked, crumbled bacon and chopped green onions into the slow cooker, reserving some for garnish if you like.
  12. Add Gnocchi: Gently fold the cooked gnocchi into the chicken mixture, ensuring each piece is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
  13. Season to Taste: Taste your dish and season with salt and pepper according to your preference. Add red pepper flakes if you want a subtle heat boost.
  14. Serve: Serve the creamy crack chicken gnocchi immediately. Garnish with extra bacon, green onions, and Parmesan cheese for added flavor and presentation.

Notes

  • Using softened cream cheese helps it melt faster and blend smoothly into the sauce.
  • Cooking the gnocchi just until they float ensures they are tender but not overcooked.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
  • For a spicier version, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
  • This recipe can be adapted for a slow cooker liner to make cleanup easier.

Keywords: Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi, slow cooker recipe, comfort food, cheesy chicken, gnocchi recipe, easy dinner

Find it online: https://thehungrymason.com/creamy-crack-chicken-gnocchi-the-ultimate-comfort-food-recipe/