Chicken Carbonara

by

Chicken Carbonara is a creamy, indulgent pasta dish that combines tender chicken, crispy pancetta or beef bacon, and a rich, velvety carbonara sauce made from eggs, Parmesan cheese, and black pepper. The sauce is silky smooth and coats each strand of pasta, while the chicken adds extra protein and heartiness to the dish. The smoky beef bacon or pancetta provides a perfect contrast to the creamy sauce, creating a comforting, flavorful meal.

I first made Chicken Carbonara when I was craving something rich and satisfying, and it quickly became a favorite. The combination of juicy chicken, crispy beef bacon, and the creamy sauce is pure comfort food. What I love most about this dish is how easy it is to make, and how it feels like a restaurant-quality meal, even on a busy weeknight. Chicken Carbonara is perfect for dinner parties, family meals, or anytime you want to treat yourself to something comforting and flavorful!

Perfect for:

  • Family dinners
  • Dinner parties
  • Date night
  • Weeknight meals
  • Lovers of creamy pasta dishes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are 10 reasons why Chicken Carbonara will become your favorite pasta dish:

  • Creamy and Comforting: The velvety sauce coats every bite, offering the perfect creamy texture.
  • Smoky Pancetta: Crispy pancetta adds a delightful smoky flavor that enhances the entire dish.
  • Tender Chicken: The chicken is cooked to perfection, adding both protein and flavor.
  • Quick and Easy: This dish is simple to make, requiring only a few ingredients and minimal prep.
  • Perfect Balance of Flavors: The combination of Parmesan, egg, and cream creates a rich, well-balanced sauce.
  • A Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s for a family dinner or a party, this dish is sure to impress.
  • Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add vegetables or swap out ingredients to suit your tastes.
  • One-Pot Wonder: This dish is easy to make in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
  • Comfort Food at Its Best: Ideal for cozy nights in when you need something hearty and satisfying.
  • Great for Leftovers: The flavors develop even further after a night in the fridge, making it an excellent option for meal prep.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 20 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 600-650 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 35g, Carbs: 50g, Fat: 30g

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

  • 12 oz spaghetti
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt, to taste

The Chicken:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Carbonara Sauce:

  • 4 large egg yolks
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 oz pancetta, diced

Optional Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Extra Parmesan cheese

Ingredient Highlights

  • Pancetta: Provides a smoky, salty depth of flavor to the sauce.
  • Egg Yolks: They help create a rich, creamy texture for the carbonara sauce.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Adds sharp, salty notes to balance the creaminess of the sauce.
  • Chicken Breast: A lean protein that complements the richness of the pasta.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

  1. Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.

Cook the Chicken:

  1. Prepare Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
  2. Cook Chicken: Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips.

Prepare the Carbonara Sauce:

  1. Whisk Egg Yolks and Cream: In a bowl, whisk together egg yolks, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until smooth.

Cook the Pancetta:

  1. Crisp the Pancetta: In the same skillet used for the chicken, add diced pancetta and cook over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until crispy. Remove from heat.

Combine the Pasta and Sauce:

  1. Combine Pasta and Pancetta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with pancetta. Toss to coat the pasta in the rendered fat.
  2. Add the Sauce: Slowly pour the egg mixture over the pasta, tossing quickly to coat the pasta without scrambling the eggs. Add a bit of reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
  3. Add Chicken: Toss in the sliced chicken and combine everything thoroughly.

Serve:

  1. Garnish and Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

How to Serve

Here are 9 serving suggestions for Chicken Carbonara:

  • With a Side Salad: Serve with a simple green salad to balance the richness of the pasta.
  • With Garlic Bread: Pair with garlic bread for a hearty, satisfying meal.
  • For Special Occasions: Perfect for date night or dinner parties with friends.
  • With Steamed Vegetables: Add broccoli or spinach for a nutrient-packed meal.
  • As a Weeknight Dinner: Quick enough to prepare on busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor.
  • With Extra Parmesan: Serve with extra Parmesan cheese for those who love cheese.
  • With a Side of Roasted Potatoes: Serve alongside roasted potatoes for an indulgent meal.
  • As a Comfort Food: A perfect comfort meal for cozy evenings.
  • For Leftovers: Enjoy the leftovers the next day for an easy lunch or dinner.

Additional Tips

  • Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Ensure the chicken is tender and juicy by not overcooking it.
  • Quick Toss for the Sauce: Toss the pasta quickly with the egg mixture to prevent it from scrambling.
  • Use Pasta Water: The reserved pasta water helps to thin out the sauce and make it smoother.
  • Serve Immediately: Carbonara is best served hot right after making it for the creamiest texture.
  • Adjust Creaminess: For a creamier sauce, add more heavy cream or Parmesan to your liking.

Recipe Variations

  • Beef Bacon Carbonara: Replace pancetta with crispy beef bacon for a more familiar flavor.
  • Vegetarian Carbonara: Skip the meat and use sautéed mushrooms or zucchini for a lighter version.
  • Spicy Carbonara: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a kick of heat.
  • Gluten-Free Carbonara: Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version of this dish.
  • Lemon Chicken Carbonara: Add a squeeze of lemon juice to the sauce for a refreshing twist.
  • Garlic Parmesan Chicken Carbonara: Add extra garlic and Parmesan for a stronger flavor.
  • Chicken and Spinach Carbonara: Add fresh spinach to the pasta for added nutrients.
  • Vegan Carbonara: Use vegan cream and plant-based cheese for a dairy-free option.
  • Chicken and Broccoli Carbonara: Add cooked broccoli to the pasta for a wholesome dish.

Special Equipment

  • Large Skillet: For cooking the chicken and pancetta, and combining the pasta.
  • Whisk: For mixing the egg yolks and cream to make the sauce.
  • Tongs: To toss the pasta and sauce together without breaking it.
  • Pasta Pot: To boil the pasta and reserve some cooking water.
  • Sharp Knife: For slicing the chicken into strips.

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
    Yes, turkey breast works as a great substitute for chicken.
  2. Can I use beef bacon instead of pancetta?
    Yes, beef bacon will add a slightly different flavor but still works well in this dish.
  3. How long does Chicken Carbonara last in the fridge?
    It can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
    It’s best served fresh, but you can cook and refrigerate the pasta and chicken separately. Then, assemble and reheat just before serving.
  5. How do I prevent the eggs from scrambling?
    Toss the egg mixture quickly with the hot pasta to gently cook the eggs and create a creamy sauce.
  6. Can I use a different type of pasta?
    Yes, you can substitute spaghetti with other pasta types like fettuccine or penne.
  7. Can I add vegetables to the Carbonara?
    Yes, vegetables like peas, mushrooms, or spinach pair nicely with the dish.
  8. Can I freeze Chicken Carbonara?
    It’s not recommended, as the cream and eggs may separate when thawed.
  9. What can I use instead of heavy cream?
    You can substitute half-and-half or milk, though the sauce won’t be as rich.
  10. What’s the best way to reheat Chicken Carbonara?
    Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy texture.

Conclusion

Chicken Carbonara is a creamy, comforting pasta dish that combines the rich flavors of crispy beef bacon, tender chicken, and a luscious sauce made from eggs, Parmesan cheese, and black pepper. The sauce is created by tossing hot pasta with the egg mixture, which creates a velvety coating that clings to the noodles. The addition of crispy beef bacon or pancetta gives a satisfying crunch and smoky flavor, while the chicken adds a protein-packed element to this classic dish.

It’s an easy, yet indulgent meal that’s perfect for weeknights or special occasions. The creamy sauce is balanced by the salty beef bacon and the mild, juicy chicken, making every bite delightful. You can serve it with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal.

I can’t wait to see how your Chicken Carbonara turns out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your beautiful creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own!