If you are craving a pasta dish that brings together the comforting creaminess of traditional carbonara with tender, savory chicken, this Chicken Carbonara Recipe will become your new go-to meal. It beautifully balances the richness of eggs and Parmesan with the smoky crunch of bacon and tender bites of chicken, all tossed in perfectly cooked spaghetti. This recipe is pure magic for anyone who loves a plate full of flavor and texture that feels both hearty and sophisticated.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chicken Carbonara Recipe relies on a handful of simple ingredients, each playing a crucial role in delivering the authentic taste and creamy texture that make this dish so irresistible. From the smoky bacon to the velvety sauce, every element has its special part to play.
- 12 oz spaghetti: The classic pasta shape that carries the sauce beautifully and provides the perfect base.
- 1 lb chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces: Adds protein and a mild flavor that complements the richness of the sauce.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Helps brown the chicken and adds a hint of fruitiness to the dish.
- 6 slices bacon, diced: Infuses the recipe with irresistible smokiness and crisp texture.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Brings warmth and depth of flavor when sautéed in bacon fat.
- 2 large eggs: The creamy base of the sauce that makes the carbonara luxuriously silky.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds sharpness and umami, enriching the sauce with a comforting cheesiness.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Makes the sauce even more indulgent and smooth.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors into perfect harmony.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh, bright finish that balances the richness of the dish.
How to Make Chicken Carbonara Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti until it is al dente according to the package instructions. This texture is key to ensuring your pasta holds up well when mixed with the creamy sauce. Be sure to reserve a cup of pasta water before draining — this magical liquid will help adjust the sauce consistency later.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
While your pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces, seasoning them with salt and black pepper. Cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. This step is where the chicken develops a delicious caramelized crust that adds depth to the dish. Once done, set the chicken aside for now.
Step 3: Cook the Bacon
Using the same skillet, toss in the diced bacon and cook until crispy. The rendered bacon fat left behind is pure gold and will become the flavor foundation of your sauce. Remove the crispy bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving that flavorful fat in the skillet.
Step 4: Sauté the Garlic
Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the bacon fat and sauté for about one minute until fragrant. This quick step releases the aromatic oils in the garlic without burning it, ensuring the flavor is mellow and inviting.
Step 5: Make the Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream. This mixture will transform into the luscious carbonara sauce as it gently cooks with the heat of the pasta and chicken.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Turn the heat to low and return the cooked chicken and crispy bacon to the skillet. Add the drained spaghetti and toss to combine all the ingredients evenly. Quickly pour the egg and cheese mixture over the pasta, stirring briskly. This step is crucial to create that creamy, silky sauce without scrambling the eggs. If the sauce seems too thick, stir in some reserved pasta water a little at a time until you achieve a perfectly smooth consistency.
Step 7: Season and Garnish
Season the dish with salt and black pepper to taste, then sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top. This little pop of green adds a fresh contrast to the rich, savory flavors, making the dish even more appealing.
How to Serve Chicken Carbonara Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic garnish that adds not only a splash of color but also a lovely freshness. You can also grate some extra Parmesan over each serving for more cheesiness or add a light drizzle of high-quality olive oil for a glossy finish that elevates the presentation.
Side Dishes
Pair your Chicken Carbonara Recipe with a crisp green salad lightly dressed in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess and refresh the palate. Garlic bread or a warm, crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up every bit of the delicious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve the carbonara in deep pasta bowls with a sprinkling of microgreens or edible flowers for a sophisticated touch. You can also twist the recipe by adding sautéed mushrooms or peas for extra pops of texture and color to surprise your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers of this Chicken Carbonara Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Be mindful that the pasta may soak up the sauce and become slightly drier, but reheating with a splash of cream or pasta water helps restore its luscious texture.
Freezing
Because carbonara sauce contains eggs and cream, freezing is not usually recommended as the texture and flavor can be negatively affected. For best results, enjoy this dish fresh for maximum creaminess and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the leftovers in a skillet over low heat, adding a little cream, milk, or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently until heated through. Avoid microwaving for best texture, as this can cause the sauce to separate.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this Chicken Carbonara Recipe?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional and works perfectly, you can also use fettuccine, linguine, or even penne if that’s what you have on hand. Just make sure to cook it al dente for the best texture.
Is it necessary to use heavy cream in this recipe?
The heavy cream adds extra richness and a silky texture, but if you prefer a lighter sauce, you can reduce the amount or substitute with half-and-half. Just note that without cream, the sauce might be a little less creamy but still delicious.
How do I prevent the eggs from scrambling in the sauce?
The key is to add the egg mixture off direct heat or over very low heat while quickly stirring the pasta to temper the eggs gently. Using reserved pasta water helps thin the sauce and prevents scrambling by lowering the temperature.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can omit the chicken and bacon and add sautéed mushrooms or smoked tofu for a vegetarian twist. Incorporating vegetarian bacon alternatives can also provide the smoky flavor that’s signature to carbonara.
What wine pairs well with Chicken Carbonara Recipe?
A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with this dish. These wines cut through the creamy sauce and complement the savory flavors without overwhelming your palate.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Carbonara Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that feels elegant yet is surprisingly easy to make. Its harmonious blend of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and crisp bacon invites you to sit down, relax, and enjoy a meal made with love. Give it a try soon—you might just find it becomes a beloved staple in your kitchen as it is in mine!
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Chicken Carbonara Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Chicken Carbonara is a creamy, comforting pasta dish featuring tender chicken breast, crispy bacon, and a rich sauce made from eggs, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream. Cooked on the stovetop, this recipe combines classic Italian flavors with a quick and easy method perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz spaghetti
Chicken and Meat
- 1 lb chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 6 slices bacon, diced
Other Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and black pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Cook the Bacon: In the same skillet, cook the diced bacon until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the skillet.
- Sauté Garlic: Add minced garlic to the skillet with the bacon fat and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Make the Sauce: Whisk together the eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream in a bowl.
- Combine Everything: Reduce heat to low. Return the chicken and bacon to the skillet, add the spaghetti, and toss to combine. Pour the egg mixture over the pasta, stirring quickly to create a creamy sauce. Add reserved pasta water as needed for desired consistency.
- Season and Garnish: Season with salt and black pepper. Garnish with chopped parsley.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the Chicken Carbonara right away for optimal flavor and creaminess.
Notes
- Be sure to stir the egg mixture quickly with the hot pasta to avoid scrambling the eggs.
- Reserved pasta water helps adjust the sauce consistency; add gradually to get a smooth, creamy texture.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and texture.
- This recipe is best served immediately, as the sauce thickens upon standing.
