Best-ever Chicken Carbonara Recipe

There's nothing like a bowl of Chicken Carbonara to turn an ordinary dinner into a feast. This creamy, savory dish combines tender chicken, smoky bacon, and a luscious Parmesan-egg sauce that clings to every strand of pasta. Perfect for weeknights or special occasions, it’s a dish the whole family will love.

this Recipe

The first time I made Chicken Carbonara, I couldn’t believe how quickly it came together. In less than 30 minutes, I had a restaurant-quality meal on the table, earning rave reviews from everyone. Let’s dive into the magic behind this recipe.

Why You'll Love This Chicken Carbonara Recipe

Get ready to discover your new go-to pasta recipe. Chicken Carbonara is the ultimate comfort food that hits all the right notes.

First, it’s incredibly quick and easy. Despite tasting like it was prepared by a professional chef, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes. It’s perfect for those busy nights when time is short but cravings are big.

Next, it’s budget-friendly. Using simple pantry staples like pasta, eggs, and Parmesan means you won’t have to break the bank. Plus, you can often make it with ingredients you already have on hand.

The versatility of this recipe is another reason to love it. You can customize the protein, use your favorite pasta shape, or even sneak in some veggies for a well-rounded meal.

And, of course, the taste is out of this world. Creamy, smoky, savory, and just a little peppery—every bite is packed with flavor.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Chicken Carbonara lies in its perfectly balanced ingredients. Each component brings its own unique charm to the dish.

Pasta is the star base of the recipe. While spaghetti is traditional, you can use linguine, fettuccine, or even penne if that’s what you have. Opt for high-quality pasta for the best results.

Chicken adds heartiness to the dish. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work well, but make sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. Season them lightly with salt and pepper before cooking.

Bacon provides a smoky depth of flavor. Look for thick-cut bacon or pancetta for the most satisfying bite. Cook it until it’s crispy to add texture to the dish.

Egg yolks and Parmesan cheese create the signature creamy sauce. Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother sauce and richer flavor. The egg yolks are whisked together with the cheese to create a luscious mixture that coats the pasta.

Garlic and black pepper add aromatic depth and a slight kick. Use fresh garlic for the best flavor, and don’t be shy with the freshly ground black pepper—it’s a defining characteristic of Carbonara.

If you have it, a large skillet or sauté pan will make cooking the chicken and bacon easier. You’ll also need a mixing bowl for the sauce and a pot for boiling pasta.

How To Make This Chicken Carbonara

Making Chicken Carbonara is simpler than it seems, but it’s important to follow each step carefully for the best results.

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add your pasta and cook until just al dente, reserving about a cup of pasta water before draining. The starchy water will help bind the sauce later.

While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bacon and cook until it’s crispy. Remove it from the pan and let it drain on paper towels. In the same skillet, add the chicken pieces, cooking them until golden brown on all sides. Set the chicken aside with the bacon.

In a bowl, whisk together egg yolks, grated Parmesan, and a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper. The mixture should be thick and creamy.

Reduce the skillet heat to low and return the drained pasta to the pan. Working quickly, pour the egg and Parmesan mixture over the hot pasta, tossing vigorously to create a silky sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Fold in the cooked chicken and crumbled bacon. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated and warmed through. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan and black pepper on top.

Storage Options

If you happen to have leftovers, Chicken Carbonara can be stored, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

When reheating, use a low heat to avoid scrambling the egg-based sauce. Add a splash of milk or pasta water to restore its creamy texture.

Freezing is not recommended for this dish, as the sauce can separate and lose its smoothness when thawed.

Variations and Substitutions

Chicken Carbonara is a wonderfully flexible recipe, and there are countless ways to make it your own.

For a lighter version, swap out the heavy bacon for turkey bacon or omit it entirely. You can also use grilled chicken for a slightly leaner dish.

Vegetarian? Skip the chicken and bacon and add sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers.

Love spice? Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne for a fiery kick.

For a richer dish, consider mixing in a splash of heavy cream with the egg and Parmesan mixture. It’s not traditional but adds a luxurious touch.

If you’re avoiding gluten, use gluten-free pasta, and make sure all other ingredients are gluten-free certified.

With its creamy sauce, savory bacon, and tender chicken, this Chicken Carbonara recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own—each variation only adds to its charm!

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