Chicken Bacon Gnocchi

This Creamy Chicken Bacon Gnocchi is the perfect combination of rich, cheesy indulgence and comforting flavors. The tender gnocchi, crispy bacon, and juicy chicken come together in a luscious garlic-Parmesan sauce that coats every bite with savory goodness. It’s a dish that feels fancy but comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight meals or special occasions alike.

With a one-skillet preparation, this meal is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to clean up. The addition of spinach brings a pop of color and freshness, balancing out the richness of the dish. Serve it with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and fresh basil for an elegant touch. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting guests, this recipe is bound to impress!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) potato gnocchi
• 2 chicken breasts, diced
• 6 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup fresh spinach
• 1 tablespoon butter

Directions:

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving about 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the skillet.
2. Add the diced chicken to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, heat olive oil and butter, then add the minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Add the gnocchi directly to the sauce and let it cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes soft and the sauce thickens.
6. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Mix until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.
7. Add the spinach, cooked bacon, and chicken back into the skillet. Stir until the spinach wilts and everything is well combined.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 620 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

History and Origins of Gnocchi

Gnocchi, the star ingredient in this dish, is a type of Italian dumpling traditionally made from potatoes, flour, and eggs. Originating from Northern Italy, gnocchi has been a staple in Italian cuisine for centuries, with variations using ricotta cheese, spinach, or even pumpkin. While traditionally served with tomato-based sauces or butter and sage, modern adaptations, like this creamy chicken bacon version, bring a rich and indulgent twist to the classic dish.

What Makes This Recipe Special?

This Creamy Chicken Bacon Gnocchi recipe is a restaurant-quality dish made in the comfort of your home. It is:

• One-Pan Friendly – Everything is cooked in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
• Rich & Creamy – The combination of Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, and garlic creates a luxurious, velvety sauce.
• Savory & Smoky – Crispy bacon adds a depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the tender gnocchi and juicy chicken.
• Quick & Easy – With just 30 minutes of total cooking time, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners.

Ingredient Spotlight

• Gnocchi: Soft and pillowy, gnocchi absorbs flavors beautifully, making it the perfect base for the creamy sauce.
• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best, but you can also use chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
• Bacon: Adds a smoky and crispy element that balances the richness of the dish.
• Heavy Cream & Chicken Broth: Creates a luscious sauce that coats the gnocchi perfectly.
• Parmesan Cheese: The nutty, salty taste enhances the creaminess of the sauce.
• Garlic & Italian Seasoning: Adds depth and warmth to the dish.
• Spinach: Introduces a pop of freshness and a nutritional boost.

Tips for Making the Best Creamy Chicken Bacon Gnocchi

1. Use Fresh or Shelf-Stable Gnocchi – Both work well, but fresh gnocchi will cook slightly faster.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure a nice golden sear.
3. Adjust Sauce Thickness – If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk or extra broth. If too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes to reduce.
4. Customize It! – Add mushrooms, sundried tomatoes, or a pinch of nutmeg for extra flavor.

What to Serve with Creamy Chicken Bacon Gnocchi

• Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
• Simple Side Salad – A fresh green salad with balsamic vinaigrette balances the richness.
• Roasted Vegetables – Roasted Brussels sprouts, zucchini, or asparagus make great additions.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to bring back the creamy texture.
• Freezing: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, as the gnocchi can become too soft when frozen.

Variations & Substitutions

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free gnocchi.
• Lighter Version: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a mix of milk and cornstarch.
• Keto-Friendly: Replace gnocchi with zucchini noodles or cauliflower.

This Creamy Chicken Bacon Gnocchi is a must-try recipe for anyone who loves indulgent, flavorful meals that come together effortlessly. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a cozy date night, or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress!

Key Ingredients and Their Role

🥔 Gnocchi:

Soft potato dumplings that absorb the creamy sauce beautifully. Choose fresh, frozen, or shelf-stable gnocchi based on convenience.

🍗 Chicken:

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts provide a lean protein source. Chicken thighs can also be used for extra juiciness.

🥓 Bacon:

Adds a crispy texture and smoky, savory depth to the dish.

🧄 Garlic:

A must-have for a flavorful sauce. The garlic enhances the richness of the cream and cheese.

🥬 Spinach:

Adds color, freshness, and a touch of earthiness, balancing the richness of the sauce.

🥛 Heavy Cream & Chicken Broth:

The base of the creamy sauce, making it smooth and velvety.

🧀 Parmesan Cheese:

Provides a nutty, salty depth that enhances the overall flavor.

🌿 Italian Seasoning & Red Pepper Flakes:

Aromatic herbs and a hint of heat elevate the dish.

Tips for the Best Creamy Chicken Bacon Gnocchi

🔹 Use Fresh or Refrigerated Gnocchi – These have a softer, more delicate texture.
🔹 Sear the Chicken Properly – Golden brown chicken means more flavor in every bite.
🔹 Don’t Overcook the Gnocchi – Since it cooks directly in the sauce, it only needs about 5 minutes to become tender.
🔹 Thin or Thicken the Sauce as Needed – If too thick, add a splash of broth; if too thin, let it simmer for a few extra minutes.
🔹 Customize It! – Try adding mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or even swapping the spinach for kale.

What to Serve with Chicken Bacon Gnocchi

This dish is rich and hearty on its own, but you can pair it with:

• Garlic Bread – Perfect for scooping up every last drop of the creamy sauce.
• Simple Side Salad – A light arugula or Caesar salad balances the meal.
• Roasted Vegetables – Asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini make great sides.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

🔸 Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
🔸 Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore the sauce’s consistency.
🔸 Freezing: Not recommended, as the gnocchi can become mushy when thawed.

Variations & Substitutions

✅ Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free gnocchi.
✅ Lighter Version: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a mix of milk and cornstarch.
✅ Vegetarian Alternative: Replace chicken with mushrooms or chickpeas and use plant-based bacon.
✅ Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use store-bought gnocchi?
Yes! Both fresh and shelf-stable gnocchi work well. Fresh gnocchi cooks faster and has a softer texture, while shelf-stable gnocchi is firmer and chewier.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but you can cook the chicken and bacon in advance, then assemble the dish when ready to eat.

Q: What other cheeses can I use?
Try Pecorino Romano for a sharper, saltier taste, or Gruyère for a deeper, nuttier flavor.

Q: Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, roasted bell peppers, or even caramelized onions would be great additions.

Conclusion

This Creamy Chicken Bacon Gnocchi is the perfect comfort food, combining simple ingredients with bold flavors. Whether you’re making it for a quick family dinner or a special occasion, it’s sure to impress. Serve it hot with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan, and enjoy the richness in every bite!