Yummy Cheese Chicken Gnocchi Bake is like a warm hug on a plate. Imagine tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a velvety cheese sauce that dances with garlic and herbs. Itβs the kind of dish that makes you want to cozy up on the couch with your favorite blanket, ready for a Netflix binge or an impromptu family gathering.
This delightful bake brings back memories of my grandmaβs kitchen, where the aroma of simmering sauces filled the air. Whether itβs a chilly evening or a festive family dinner, this dish promises smiles all around. Get ready for a flavor explosion that will make your taste buds sing!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This cheesy chicken bake is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners stress-free.
- The combination of flavors creates a mouthwatering experience thatβs hard to resist.
- Its golden, bubbly top offers visual appeal that impresses at any gathering.
- Perfect for using leftover chicken or customizing with your favorite veggies!
Ingredients for Yummy Cheese Chicken Gnocchi Bake
Hereβs what youβll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work perfectly. Feel free to adjust based on how many hungry mouths youβre feeding.
- Fresh Gnocchi: Look for store-bought gnocchi; it cooks quickly and adds that perfect chewy texture we love.
- Shredded Cheese Blend: A mix of mozzarella and cheddar gives gooeyness and flavor; go wild with your favorites!
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic adds aromatic goodnessβchoose firm cloves for maximum flavor.
- Chicken Broth: This keeps everything moist and flavorful; opt for low-sodium versions if youβre watching your salt intake.
- Olive Oil: Use it to sautΓ© the chicken and garlic; it adds richness without overpowering the dish.
For the Sauce:
- Cream Cheese: This is key for achieving that dreamy, creamy sauce consistency; let it soften before mixing.
- Pesto Sauce: Adds vibrant herbal notes; you can make your own or grab a jar from the store!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Yummy Cheese Chicken Gnocchi Bake
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C). Spray a large baking dish with nonstick cooking sprayβtrust me, you donβt want this glorious concoction sticking to anything!
Step 2: SautΓ© the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once it shimmers like diamonds under sunlight, add diced chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and no longer pink inside (about 5-7 minutes). Donβt be shy about giving them some love by stirring occasionally!
Step 3: Add Garlic
Once your chicken is cooked through, toss in minced garlic. SautΓ© for about one minute until fragrantβyouβll know itβs done when youβre tempted to eat it straight from the skillet.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Reduce heat and stir in softened cream cheese and pesto sauce until well combined. Pour in chicken broth gradually while stirring until you achieve a smooth mixture worthy of every Instagram food post ever.
Step 5: Combine Gnocchi and Sauce
Add fresh gnocchi into the pan with your creamy goodness. Stir gently so every piece gets coated in cheesy bliss.
Step 6: Bake
Transfer everything into your greased baking dish and sprinkle shredded cheese on top like confetti on New Yearβs Eve! Bake uncovered for about 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Serve this Yummy Cheese Chicken Gnocchi Bake hot out of the oven! Transfer to plates and drizzle with any extra pesto if desired for that perfect finishing touch.
Enjoy every luscious bite as you bask in compliments from your family or friendsβitβs just that good!
You Must Know
- This amazing chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken first to lock in moisture, then cook the gnocchi while preparing your cheesy sauce. This sequence ensures that everything comes together perfectly and saves you time in the kitchen.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap chicken for turkey or add seasonal veggies like spinach or bell peppers. Experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella or gouda, for a unique twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350Β°F until warmed through, preserving that cheesy goodness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Start with fresh ingredients for the best flavors; stale cheese is a culinary crime.
- Use a heavy-bottomed pot to prevent sticking during cooking.
- Donβt rush the cheese melting process; patience leads to creamy perfection.
The best memory I have of making this dish was when my friends devoured it during our movie night, leaving only crumbs behind and asking for secondsβdefinitely a crowd-pleaser!
FAQs :
What is Yummy Cheese Chicken Gnocchi Bake?
Yummy Cheese Chicken Gnocchi Bake is a delightful casserole that combines tender chicken pieces with soft gnocchi, all enveloped in a creamy cheese sauce. This dish is not only comforting but also easy to prepare. It can be customized with your favorite vegetables or herbs for added flavor. The combination of ingredients creates a rich and satisfying meal, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
How do I store leftovers of Yummy Cheese Chicken Gnocchi Bake?
To store leftovers of Yummy Cheese Chicken Gnocchi Bake, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Place it in the refrigerator where it will keep for up to three days. If you wish to keep it longer, consider freezing the bake. Portion it out in freezer-safe containers and it can last up to three months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Can I make Yummy Cheese Chicken Gnocchi Bake ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Yummy Cheese Chicken Gnocchi Bake ahead of time. Prepare the dish according to the recipe instructions but do not bake it initially. Cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When youβre ready, simply pop it in the oven according to the baking instructions. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights or special occasions.
What variations can I try with Yummy Cheese Chicken Gnocchi Bake?
You can easily customize Yummy Cheese Chicken Gnocchi Bake by adding different vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. You might also consider using different types of cheese such as mozzarella or cheddar for a unique flavor profile. For a healthier twist, substitute some of the gnocchi with zucchini noodles or cauliflower gnocchi while maintaining the creamy sauce base.
Conclusion for Yummy Cheese Chicken Gnocchi Bake :
In summary, Yummy Cheese Chicken Gnocchi Bake is a delicious and versatile dish that brings comfort food to new heights. With its creamy cheese sauce and tender chicken combined with gnocchi, this recipe is sure to please everyone at your table. Storing leftovers is simple, allowing you to enjoy this meal multiple times. Feel free to experiment with variations by adding your favorite vegetables or cheeses for a personalized touch!

Yummy Cheese Chicken Gnocchi Bake
- Author: Adeline
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Yummy Cheese Chicken Gnocchi Bake is a heartwarming casserole that effortlessly combines tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a creamy cheese sauce infused with garlic and herbs. This dish is perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or festive family gatherings, offering a delightful balance of flavors and textures in every bite. With its golden bubbly topping and rich sauce, itβs sure to be a hit with loved ones!
Ingredients
- 3β4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 lb fresh gnocchi
- 2 cups shredded cheese blend (mozzarella and cheddar)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- Β½ cup pesto sauce
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C) and spray a large baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add diced chicken seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned.
- Stir in minced garlic and sautΓ© for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Reduce heat, mix in softened cream cheese and pesto sauce. Gradually pour in chicken broth while stirring until smooth.
- Add fresh gnocchi to the skillet, ensuring each piece is coated in the sauce.
- Transfer the mixture to the greased baking dish, top with shredded cheese, and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: Customize by adding seasonal vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. For a lighter option, swap half of the gnocchi with zucchini noodles or cauliflower gnocchi.