I've always loved meals that are quick, easy, and leave me with just one pan to clean, and this One-Pan Chicken Bacon Gnocchi checks all those boxes. Imagine crispy bacon, tender chicken, and pillowy gnocchi all in a creamy, flavorful sauce—that's what you get here. It's the kind of dish that feels like comfort food but still manages to come together in no time. Want to know how to make it happen in your kitchen? Stick around.
What You'll Love About This Recipe
This One-Pan Chicken Bacon Gnocchi recipe is a game-changer for quick, flavorful meals. Easy to make with minimal cleanup, it's perfect for busy weeknights. Rich and creamy with a savory blend of chicken, bacon, and gnocchi, it's a crowd-pleaser. Customizable with your favorite herbs or veggies, it adapts to your taste effortlessly. Adding in some fresh basil or parsley can enhance the flavor profile beautifully.
Recipe
This One-Pan Chicken Bacon Gnocchi is a hearty, comforting dish that combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and pillowy gnocchi in a creamy sauce. It's quick to prepare and uses just one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. This dish showcases the versatility of gnocchi, which can be made with gluten-free options to accommodate different dietary needs.
Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 (16 oz) package potato gnocchi
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add bacon and cook until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add chicken and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Cook until browned and no longer pink. Remove and set aside.
- Add gnocchi to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until lightly browned.
- Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer.
- Return chicken and bacon to the skillet. Stir in Parmesan cheese and cook until the sauce thickens and gnocchi are tender.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes:
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or milk for heavy cream.
- Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrients.
Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Serving: 4
- Calories: ~650 per serving
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Equipment
To prepare this One-Pan Chicken Bacon Gnocchi, you'll need minimal equipment for a hassle-free cooking experience. Gather the following essentials:
- Large skillet or oven-safe pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Tongs for handling chicken. Additionally, using tools like a large skillet is essential for achieving the rich flavors characteristic of creamy pasta dishes.
Nutrition
One-Pan Chicken Bacon Gnocchi is a hearty dish that combines protein, carbs, and rich flavors in every bite. Here are its key nutritional highlights:
- High in protein from chicken and bacon.
- Contains carbs from gnocchi for sustained energy.
- Includes healthy fats from olive oil and bacon.
- Provides calcium and vitamin D from Parmesan cheese.
- Moderate in calories, making it a satisfying meal option. Additionally, incorporating diverse vegetables can enhance both the nutrition and flavor profile of the dish.
What to Serve With This Recipe
I love pairing this one-pan dish with a simple side salad for freshness, or a warm, crusty bread to soak up the sauce. A glass of white wine elevates the meal, while roasted veggies add a healthy touch. Don't forget to end with a light dessert, like lemon sorbet, to balance the richness!
Side Salad Options
When you're serving up a rich and hearty dish like One-Pan Chicken Bacon Gnocchi, a fresh side salad can really balance things out. I love tossing together crisp seasonal greens, like arugula or spinach, with a bright citrus dressing—think lemon or orange—to cut through the richness. It's light, invigorating, and lets you enjoy the meal without feeling weighed down. Plus, it's easy to customize!
Bread Pairing Ideas
While a fresh salad adds a nice crunch to your One-Pan Chicken Bacon Gnocchi, sometimes you just need something warm and comforting to round out the meal—like bread! I love serving garlic bread for its bold flavor or a simple French baguette to soak up every last bit of sauce. Both options are easy, versatile, and make the meal feel complete. You can't go wrong!
Wine Suggestions
To complement the rich flavors of One-Pan Chicken Bacon Gnocchi, a well-chosen wine can really elevate the meal. I'd recommend a medium-bodied red wine, like Pinot Noir, to balance the smoky bacon and savory chicken. If you prefer something lighter, a crisp white wine, such as Chardonnay, works beautifully with the creamy sauce. Either way, pick what you love—it's your meal, your rules!
Vegetable Accompaniments
Pairing the right vegetables with your One-Pan Chicken Bacon Gnocchi can turn a great meal into something truly special. I love adding roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers—their caramelized edges bring a fantastic flavor. Steamed greens, such as spinach or broccoli, are another go-to for me, keeping things fresh and balanced. These sides let the dish shine while giving you the freedom to mix and match.
Dessert Recommendations
Since this dish is already rich and hearty, I like to end the meal with something light and invigorating for dessert. A simple fruit tart with creamy custard or angel food cake topped with fresh berries works wonders. For pastry pairings, try mini éclairs or lemon meringue tarts. Add a drizzle of honey or chocolate as sweet toppings to keep it balanced yet satisfying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Turkey Bacon Instead of Regular Bacon?
"Variety is the spice of life," so yes, I'd swap in turkey bacon if I wanted to. Its turkey texture might differ, but it still brings that bacon flavor I crave, keeping things flexible and flavorful.
Is This Recipe Suitable for Meal Prep?
I'd say it's great for meal prep if you're into portion control and time management. I'd divide it into containers while it's fresh, so I've got meals ready to grab when I'm on the go.
Can I Substitute Gnocchi With a Gluten-Free Alternative?
I'm picturing tender, pillowy dumplings swapping for something lighter. Absolutely, I'd swap gnocchi for gluten-free pasta if I'm craving freedom in my meals. Pair it with dairy-free options for a dish that feels indulgent yet boundless.
How Do I Store and Reheat Leftovers?
I'd store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to three days. For reheating methods, I'd warm them in a skillet with a splash of water or microwave in short bursts to keep them moist.
Can I Freeze This Dish for Later Use?
I reckon freezing's a grand idea, like a telegram saved for the future. To preserve, I'll follow freezing tips and storage methods—cool it first, seal it tight, and thaw it slow to keep flavors free and bold.
