Best Chicken Carbonara Recipe

There's nothing quite like the rich, velvety taste of Chicken Carbonara to transform an ordinary evening into something special. This classic Italian-inspired dish features tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a creamy sauce infused with garlic and Parmesan, making it a comforting meal the whole family will adore.

this Recipe

I first discovered Chicken Carbonara when trying to recreate a restaurant favorite at home. After a few tweaks to simplify the process, I landed on this foolproof recipe that's quick enough for weeknights yet elegant enough for entertaining.

Why You'll Love This Chicken Carbonara

Get ready to add a new staple to your recipe rotation. This Chicken Carbonara is not only mouthwateringly delicious but also surprisingly easy to prepare.

First, it’s a total time-saver. The entire dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you’re short on time but still crave something homemade.

This recipe is versatile enough to fit different diets and preferences. You can adjust the protein, swap out the pasta type, or even sneak in some extra veggies to suit your needs.

Budget-friendly ingredients mean you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal without breaking the bank. From pasta to chicken to pantry staples like eggs and Parmesan, everything is easily accessible and affordable.

Finally, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Even picky eaters will find something to love in this creamy, savory dish that strikes the perfect balance of flavors.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Chicken Carbonara lies in its simple, high-quality ingredients that come together to create something truly special.

The pasta serves as the backbone of the dish. While spaghetti is traditional, fettuccine or linguine also work beautifully. Their slightly thicker texture holds up well to the rich sauce.

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts provide a lean yet flavorful protein. Be sure to slice them thinly for even cooking. Chicken thighs are a great alternative if you prefer something even juicier.

The sauce is made with a mixture of eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a touch of heavy cream. This creates a luscious texture without feeling too heavy. Don’t skimp on freshly grated Parmesan—it’s key to achieving that authentic flavor.

Garlic and shallots are the unsung heroes of this dish. They add depth and aroma, enhancing the overall taste profile of the carbonara.

Lastly, a sprinkle of crispy pancetta or bacon is optional but highly recommended. Its smoky, salty crunch takes the dish to the next level.

How To Make This Chicken Carbonara

Making Chicken Carbonara is simpler than you think. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a stunning meal ready in no time.

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta until al dente according to the package instructions, then reserve about a cup of the pasta water before draining.

While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced pancetta or bacon and cook until crispy. Remove it from the pan and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.

Season the sliced chicken with salt and pepper, then add it to the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and let it rest.

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream. Add a pinch of salt and a generous grind of black pepper.

Return the skillet to low heat and add minced garlic. Sauté for about a minute until fragrant, then toss in the cooked pasta. Quickly pour the egg mixture over the pasta, stirring vigorously to coat the noodles without scrambling the eggs.

If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency. Stir in the chicken and pancetta, ensuring everything is well combined and heated through.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (though that’s rare!), Chicken Carbonara stores well for up to three days. Use an airtight container to keep it fresh in the refrigerator.

To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Warm gently over low heat to avoid scrambling the eggs.

Unfortunately, this dish doesn’t freeze well due to the delicate nature of the sauce. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a couple of days.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about Chicken Carbonara is its versatility. You can customize it to suit your tastes or dietary needs.

For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and swap out the pancetta for turkey bacon.

Add vegetables like peas, spinach, or mushrooms for a pop of color and extra nutrients.

If you prefer a seafood twist, substitute the chicken with shrimp or scallops.

Vegetarian? Leave out the chicken and pancetta, and replace them with roasted vegetables or plant-based protein.

Don’t have Parmesan on hand? Pecorino Romano is a fantastic substitute that adds a slightly sharper flavor.

Experiment with these variations to make the recipe truly your own. Whether you stick to the classic or try something new, this Chicken Carbonara is bound to be a hit.

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