Best-ever Chicken Carbonara Recipe

There's nothing quite like a warm, comforting plate of Chicken Carbonara to bring everyone together around the dinner table. This classic Italian-inspired dish features tender, juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and al dente pasta, all tossed in a luscious, velvety sauce made from eggs, cheese, and a touch of garlic.

this Recipe

I first perfected this recipe on a rainy evening when my family craved something both cozy and luxurious. It turned out so delicious that now it’s become our go-to for everything from busy weeknights to Sunday dinners.

Why You'll Love This Chicken Carbonara

Get ready to fall head over heels for your new favorite pasta dish. This Chicken Carbonara is not only mouthwateringly delicious but also a game-changer in terms of simplicity and flavor.

First off, this recipe comes together in no time. With just 30 minutes of total cook time, you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal that’s perfect for those nights when you need something quick and satisfying.

Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’ll make your taste buds dance. The combination of crispy, salty bacon, tender chicken, and a creamy, cheesy sauce makes this dish irresistible. Even picky eaters will clean their plates, and you might find yourself making it on repeat!

What makes this recipe stand out even more is how budget-friendly it is. Using simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry, it feeds the whole family without breaking the bank. And you don’t have to worry about leftover waste – it’s guaranteed to disappear fast.

Finally, Chicken Carbonara is incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with extra veggies, different proteins, or a gluten-free pasta option. It’s adaptable to whatever you have on hand, making it a true weeknight hero.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of Chicken Carbonara lies in its simplicity, but every ingredient is essential to achieving the perfect flavor and texture balance. Let’s break down each component so you know exactly why it matters.

The pasta is the foundation of this dish, and I recommend using spaghetti or fettuccine. These long strands soak up the creamy sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is a silky, savory delight. Feel free to swap in linguine or even penne if you prefer.

Chicken is the star protein in this version. I like to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts because they cook quickly and stay juicy when seared properly. However, if you’re a fan of richer flavor, boneless chicken thighs are also a great option.

For that signature smoky and savory taste, bacon is a must. Pancetta is traditional for carbonara, but regular bacon works wonderfully, adding crisp texture and plenty of umami. Make sure to reserve some of the bacon fat for cooking – it infuses the entire dish with incredible flavor.

The heart of the sauce comes from egg yolks and Parmesan cheese. The yolks create a rich, creamy texture, while freshly grated Parmesan provides a nutty, salty kick. Remember to use high-quality cheese and grate it yourself if possible for the best melt and flavor.

A touch of garlic elevates the whole dish, lending an aromatic depth that complements the chicken and bacon. Finally, a sprinkle of black pepper ties everything together. The pepper adds just enough heat to balance the creamy sauce and bring out the flavors.

You'll also need a large skillet, a mixing bowl, and a pot for boiling the pasta – no special equipment required!

How To Make This Chicken Carbonara

Creating this mouthwatering Chicken Carbonara is simpler than you might think. Let me walk you through the process step by step.

Start by cooking the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water. Be sure to undercook it slightly, as it will continue to cook when tossed with the hot sauce later. Reserve about a cup of the starchy pasta water before draining – this will help you achieve the perfect sauce consistency.

While the pasta cooks, heat a splash of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season your chicken with salt and pepper, then sear it until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Once done, set the chicken aside to rest before slicing it into thin strips.

In the same skillet, add your chopped bacon and cook until it’s crispy and the fat has rendered out. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving the flavorful drippings in the pan. Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté briefly until fragrant – be careful not to burn it!

Next, whisk together the egg yolks and freshly grated Parmesan cheese in a mixing bowl. The mixture should be thick and creamy. Add a generous amount of freshly cracked black pepper to the egg mixture for a touch of heat.

Return the hot, drained pasta to the skillet, followed by the crispy bacon and sliced chicken. Remove the skillet from the heat and quickly pour in the egg and cheese mixture. Toss vigorously to coat the pasta, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce becomes glossy and clings to the noodles.

The entire process should be done off the heat to prevent the eggs from scrambling. Instead, they should gently cook from the residual warmth of the pasta, creating a silky, luscious sauce. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of parsley if you like.

Storage Options

If you have any leftovers (a rare occurrence!), you’ll want to store them properly to maintain the dish’s flavor and texture. Transfer your Chicken Carbonara to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the sauce may thicken as it cools.

When it comes to reheating, low and slow is the way to go. Gently warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving, as the sauce can become grainy if heated too quickly.

Unfortunately, this dish doesn’t freeze well due to the delicate nature of the egg-based sauce. But trust me, you won’t have any trouble finishing it within a couple of days!

Variations and Substitutions

One of the reasons I adore this recipe is how flexible it is. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients to suit your tastes or dietary needs.

For a veggie-loaded version, toss in some fresh spinach, peas, or sautéed mushrooms. These additions complement the creamy sauce and add a burst of color and nutrition.

If you’re looking to make this dish a bit lighter, use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream in the sauce. Just know that the texture won’t be as rich and luxurious.

Prefer a seafood twist? Swap the chicken for shrimp or scallops. Sear them briefly before adding to the pasta for an elegant and flavorful variation.

For a gluten-free option, simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta. The sauce will coat it just as well, and you won’t lose any of that classic Carbonara flavor.

Don't be afraid to customize your Chicken Carbonara and make it your own. Cooking is all about enjoying the process and creating something delicious that brings joy to your table!

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