If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm, comforting hug wrapped up in a plate, the Chicken Bacon Gnocchi in Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need. This recipe brings together pillowy gnocchi, tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a luscious Parmesan cream sauce that simply melts in your mouth. It’s a delightful mix of textures and flavors that comes together quickly and effortlessly, making it perfect for both busy weeknights and special gatherings. Once you try it, this dish will have a permanent place in your recipe rotation!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chicken Bacon Gnocchi in Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe shines because of its simple yet star-quality ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, whether it’s the smoky crunch of bacon, the creamy richness of Parmesan, or the light, fluffy gnocchi that soaks up every bit of flavor.
- Bacon (6 slices): Adds irresistible crispy texture and smoky depth to the dish.
- Chicken breasts (2 medium, cut into bite-size pieces): Provides tender protein that pairs perfectly with creamy sauce.
- Garlic (1 large clove, minced): Infuses the sauce with fragrant, savory warmth.
- Chicken broth (1/2 cup): Lends subtle umami flavor and keeps the sauce light.
- Heavy or whipping cream (1 cup): Creates the rich, velvety base for the creamy Parmesan sauce.
- Italian seasoning (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a burst of herbaceous flavor that brightens the dish.
- Potato gnocchi (1 pound, uncooked): Pillowy pasta that soaks up sauce and offers a delightfully soft texture.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Introduces sharp, nutty notes that make the sauce truly crave-worthy.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential seasoning to enhance all the flavors.
How to Make Chicken Bacon Gnocchi in Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Crispy Bacon First
Start by frying the bacon in a deep skillet over medium-high heat until it’s golden and crispy, about 10 minutes. Using kitchen shears makes cutting the bacon into perfect bite-sized pieces super easy and quick, so don’t skip that trick!
Step 2: Trim the Fat, Keep the Flavor
Once the bacon is done, remove it from the pan but leave about one tablespoon of bacon fat behind. This leftover fat is pure magic and adds a smoky richness to the chicken as it cooks.
Step 3: Cook Chicken to Juicy Perfection
Add your chicken pieces to the pan and cook over medium-high heat for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring often. You’ll want the chicken to turn white on the outside but stay tender inside. If it sticks, be patient—it will release once properly browned.
Step 4: Garlic Flavor Infusion
Toss minced garlic into the pan and stir well. The garlic will quickly become fragrant, infusing the chicken with its savory aroma that’s key to that crave-worthy sauce.
Step 5: Building the Creamy Sauce
Turn the heat down to medium, then add chicken broth, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, uncooked gnocchi, and the crispy bacon. Stir everything together so the flavors combine beautifully. Cover the pan and cook for 4 minutes, letting the gnocchi soften.
Step 6: Sauce Reduction and Thickening
Remove the lid and keep cooking the gnocchi and sauce uncovered for a few more minutes. Stir occasionally as the sauce reduces and thickens, giving you that perfect creamy consistency that clings to every bite of gnocchi.
Step 7: Finish with Parmesan and Seasoning
Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese, which will melt seamlessly into the sauce, deepening the flavor. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately to enjoy the best texture and flavor.
How to Serve Chicken Bacon Gnocchi in Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation and add fresh brightness, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or basil on top. A light dusting of extra Parmesan cheese pairs nicely and adds a pretty touch that makes every serving feel special.
Side Dishes
This dish is rich and filling on its own but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette to balance the creaminess. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread is also a fantastic pick for mopping up that dreamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, serve this Chicken Bacon Gnocchi in Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe in shallow bowls with a small herb sprig resting on top. You can also portion it into individual ramekins and broil briefly with extra cheese for a golden cheesy crust that will impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Chicken Bacon Gnocchi in Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the sauce creamy by reheating gently and adding a splash of cream or broth if it thickens too much.
Freezing
While gnocchi dishes don’t always freeze perfectly due to texture changes, you can freeze this recipe if needed. Cool the leftovers completely, place in a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating slowly on the stove.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a little cream or broth to loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick. Avoid the microwave if possible to preserve the lovely texture of the gnocchi and keep the chicken tender.
FAQs
Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Absolutely! Turkey bacon can be a lighter alternative if you want less fat, but keep in mind it won’t be quite as crispy or smoky. Adjust cooking time as needed to get it nicely crisped.
Is it okay to substitute chicken thighs for breasts?
Definitely. Chicken thighs tend to be juicier and more forgiving when cooking, so they’ll work beautifully in this recipe. Just cut them into similar bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
Can I use pre-cooked or frozen gnocchi?
Yes, if using pre-cooked or frozen gnocchi, adjust the cooking time accordingly, usually reducing it since they are already soft. Add them to the sauce just long enough to heat through so they don’t get mushy.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a tablespoon of flour for thickening, though the sauce will be a bit less rich. For a dairy-free option, coconut cream is a decent replacement with a subtle twist in flavor.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes when you add the garlic or finish with a drizzle of hot sauce. This little kick complements the creamy sauce perfectly without overpowering the overall balance.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Bacon Gnocchi in Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser with its irresistible combination of creamy, savory, and slightly smoky flavors. It’s simple enough for a quick weeknight meal but impressive enough to serve when you want to wow family or friends. Grab your skillet, get the ingredients together, and prepare to fall in love with every bite!
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Chicken Bacon Gnocchi in Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This comforting Chicken Bacon Gnocchi recipe combines crispy bacon, tender chicken, and tender potato gnocchi simmered in a creamy garlic parmesan sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s an easy one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners.
Ingredients
Meats
- 6 slices bacon, cut into small pieces
- 2 medium chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
Produce & Dairy
- 1 large clove garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
Pantry
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 pound uncooked potato gnocchi
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook Bacon: In a deep skillet over medium-high heat, fry the bacon pieces until crispy, about 10 minutes. Use kitchen shears to make cutting the bacon quick and hassle-free.
- Remove Bacon and Reserve Fat: Take the cooked bacon out of the pan, leaving about one tablespoon of the bacon fat in the skillet. Discard the rest of the fat or save for another use.
- Cook Chicken: Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring often, until the chicken turns white on the outside. If the chicken sticks, allow it a little more time to release naturally before stirring.
- Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the pan and stir to combine, allowing it to become fragrant.
- Add Liquids and Ingredients: Reduce heat to medium, then add chicken broth, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, uncooked gnocchi, and cooked bacon to the skillet. Stir everything well, cover the pan, and cook for 4 minutes.
- Simmer Sauce and Gnocchi: Remove the lid and continue cooking uncovered for a few more minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens to your preferred consistency and gnocchi is cooked through.
- Finish and Serve: Stir in the freshly grated parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Notes
- Using kitchen shears makes cutting bacon quicker and less messy.
- Reserve some bacon fat for extra flavor in other recipes or discard to reduce greasiness.
- Do not overcook the chicken at first to keep it tender.
- The gnocchi cooks quickly once added with the liquids; stirring prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.
- Adjust sauce thickness by simmering more or less time uncovered.
- Freshly grated parmesan has better melting quality and flavor than pre-grated.
