Delicious Chicken Bacon Ranch Gnocchi Recipe

Welcome to a culinary delight that will have your taste buds singing with joy! This Chicken Bacon Ranch Gnocchi recipe is a true winner when it comes to satisfying those weeknight dinner cravings. Imagine tender chicken, smoky bacon, and pillowy gnocchi all enveloped in a creamy, cheesy blanket of goodness. It’s like a hug on a plate!

The magical combination of chicken, bacon, and ranch flavors will have your family asking for seconds every time. The melty provolone cheese bubbling up and turning golden under the broiler adds that perfect finishing touch, reminiscent of cozy Sunday dinners at home. This dish not only delivers on taste but also on convenience, coming together with surprisingly little effort.

Whether you’re a gnocchi aficionado or simply looking for a new go-to comfort food recipe, this Chicken Bacon Ranch Gnocchi is sure to become a family favorite. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the ultimate in cheesy, savory, and oh-so-delicious goodness!

Quick Benefits

• Creamy and Cheesy: Indulge in a rich and satisfying flavor profile with a creamy sauce and a blend of different cheeses.
• Easy and Versatile: Simple to make with readily available ingredients, and offers variations for dietary preferences or ingredient availability.
• Comforting and Crowd-Pleasing: A dish that brings together classic flavors like bacon, ranch, and gooey cheese, creating a cozy and appealing meal for all ages and occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Delicious Chicken Bacon Ranch Gnocchi Recipe Recipe

• The creamy and cheesy combination of the sauce will satisfy your comfort food cravings, making it the perfect dish for a cozy night in.
• The smoky flavor from the bacon, along with the savory ranch seasoning, adds a delicious depth of flavor to the dish.
• The pillowy gnocchi, tender chicken, and melty cheese create a mouthwatering texture that will keep you coming back for more.
• The dish is versatile, allowing for ingredient substitutions such as using chicken breasts or different types of cheeses to suit your preferences.
• The option to prepare the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer makes it a convenient meal for busy days.
• Adding spinach, broccoli, or peas to the dish provides a pop of color and extra nutrients, making it a well-rounded meal.
• The dish is a crowd-pleaser that will impress guests, especially when served with a side of fresh green salad or steamed broccoli for a balanced meal.
• The nostalgic aroma of the dish cooking in the oven will transport you back to comforting family dinners, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere in your kitchen.

Ingredients for Delicious Chicken Bacon Ranch Gnocchi Recipe

Main Components

• 4 boneless skinless chicken thighs, diced into 2.5 cm pieces, cooked
• 6 slices streaky bacon, chopped and cooked
• 900 g gnocchi, cooked as directed

Sauce and Cheese

• 60 g cream cheese
• 200 g aged white cheddar, shredded
• 1 ranch seasoning packet
• 480 ml heavy cream
• 60 g mild cheddar, shredded
• 6 slices provolone cheese

Garnish

• Fresh parsley, finely chopped

Pro Tips for Delicious Chicken Bacon Ranch Gnocchi Recipe

For a smoother sauce, opt for full-fat cream and add an extra ounce of cream cheese. Make sure to stir well to fully melt the cheeses and achieve a creamy consistency.

If you only have chicken breasts on hand, they can be used as a substitute for chicken thighs. Simply cut them into 1-inch pieces and cook thoroughly before adding them to the dish.

While classic potato gnocchi is recommended for its pillowy texture, feel free to experiment with cauliflower or sweet potato gnocchi for a different twist on this comforting dish.

How to Make Delicious Chicken Bacon Ranch Gnocchi Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

Preheat the oven to 190 degrees Celsius.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, warm heavy cream. Add cream cheese and whisk until fully combined. Stir in ranch seasoning, then mix in shredded aged white cheddar until melted. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Combine Chicken and Gnocchi

Gently combine the cooked chicken pieces and gnocchi with the cheese sauce until evenly mixed.

Step 4: Assemble in Baking Dish

Spread the mixture into a 23 x 33 cm baking dish. Layer provolone slices evenly on top, followed by shredded mild cheddar and cooked bacon pieces.

Step 5: Bake the Dish

Bake without a cover for 25-30 minutes until bubbling.

Step 6: Broil for Colour

Broil in the oven for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully until the top is golden brown.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

Take out of the oven and sprinkle with plenty of freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Storage Tips

To store the finished Chicken Bacon Ranch Gnocchi, allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to airtight containers. Store the dish in the refrigerator for up to four days. When reheating, cover with foil and use the oven or a microwave to gently melt the cheese again. For freezing, portion out individual servings to reheat quickly and maintain their creamy texture.

This dish can be customized by using chicken breasts instead of thighs, swapping white cheddar for mozzarella for a milder flavor, or incorporating pepper jack cheese for a touch of heat. If you cannot find ranch seasoning, you can create a similar flavor by stirring in dried dill, chives, parsley, a pinch of garlic powder, and a little salt. Gnocchi is a versatile ingredient that pairs well with creamy casseroles and comfort food flavors.

To enhance the meal, consider serving a fresh green salad with tangy vinaigrette or steamed broccoli on the side to balance the richness of the dish. When entertaining guests, provide extra chopped herbs and a squeeze of lemon for a zesty touch. This Chicken Bacon Ranch Gnocchi recipe offers a comforting and satisfying meal that can easily become a new family favorite with its creamy, cheesy, and flavorful components.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer a different protein, such as turkey or pork, you can easily substitute it for the chicken in this recipe. Just ensure it’s fully cooked before adding it to the dish.

For a lighter option, you can swap the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. This will result in a slightly thinner sauce, but it will still be delicious.

If you’re looking to make this dish vegetarian, you can omit the bacon and chicken entirely and add in more vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for added flavor and texture. Just sauté the veggies until they are tender before mixing them into the dish.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try layering the Chicken Bacon Ranch Gnocchi in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets before baking. This not only makes for a charming presentation but also ensures each serving has plenty of that golden bubbly provolone cheese on top to dig into. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness before serving.

Another fun idea is to serve the Chicken Bacon Ranch Gnocchi in small, hollowed-out bread bowls. Simply carve out the center of round bread loaves, leaving a sturdy crust bowl. Fill each bread bowl with the creamy gnocchi mixture, top with extra shredded cheese, and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This creative twist adds a unique touch to your meal and allows for a delicious and comforting bread-dipping experience.

FAQs for Delicious Chicken Bacon Ranch Gnocchi Recipe

Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs in this recipe?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used. Cut them into 1-inch pieces and cook thoroughly before adding.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the dish up until baking, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.

What can I substitute for potato gnocchi in this recipe?

Potato gnocchi provide the ideal pillowy texture but you can also use cauliflower or sweet potato gnocchi of your choice.

How can I make the sauce smoother?

Use full-fat cream and an extra ounce of cream cheese. Stir well to fully melt the cheeses for a smoother sauce.

Conclusion

As you take your last bite of this indulgent Chicken Bacon Ranch Gnocchi dish, savor the harmonious blend of flavors that make it so irresistible. The creamy sauce, savory bacon, tender chicken, and pillowy gnocchi all come together to create a truly comforting meal that never fails to impress.

I hope this recipe becomes a regular feature on your dinner table, bringing joy and satisfaction to your loved ones with each delicious bite of Chicken Bacon Ranch Gnocchi. Don’t hesitate to customize it to your liking by trying different cheese variations, adding your favorite veggies, or even experimenting with different protein options. Embrace the versatility of this dish and make it your own for a truly unforgettable dining experience. Enjoy every moment of cooking and sharing this delightful Chicken Bacon Ranch Gnocchi with those you hold dear.