Easy Chicken Carbonara Recipe

Chicken Carbonara is a classic Italian-inspired dish that combines creamy, savory, and smoky flavors into a comforting pasta meal. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights yet elegant enough for special occasions. With tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a silky Parmesan sauce, it’s a surefire crowd-pleaser that your family will love.

What Is Chicken Carbonara?

Chicken Carbonara is a rich and creamy pasta dish that typically features spaghetti, cooked chicken, and bacon in a sauce made with eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a touch of cream. This version is an easy twist on the traditional Italian Carbonara, which is usually made without cream or chicken, offering a heartier take on the classic recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
• One-pan cooking: Uses one skillet for easy cleanup.
• Rich and flavorful: Combines savory chicken and bacon with a luscious Parmesan sauce.
• Customizable: Adaptable to dietary preferences and ingredient availability.

Ingredients

• 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 chicken breasts, diced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup (100 g) grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream (optional)
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cooking the Spaghetti

1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water.
2. Reserve 1 cup (240 ml) of pasta water before draining.

2. Preparing the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Season diced chicken with salt and pepper.
3. Cook chicken in the skillet until golden brown and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes.
4. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. Cooking the Bacon and Garlic

1. In the same skillet, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5 minutes.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant.

4. Making the Carbonara Sauce

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream (if using) until smooth.

5. Combining the Dish

1. Return cooked spaghetti and chicken to the skillet with the bacon and garlic.
2. Remove skillet from heat to prevent scrambling the eggs.
3. Quickly pour the egg mixture over the pasta, tossing vigorously to coat.
4. Add reserved pasta water, a little at a time, to create a silky sauce.

6. Serving

1. Garnish with chopped parsley.
2. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this dish with a crisp green salad and a side of garlic bread for a complete meal.
• For an elevated experience, enjoy it with a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water.

Storing and Freezing

Storage Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess.

Freezing Instructions

• Carbonara is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it for up to 1 month.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating as described above.

Recipe Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta.
• Vegetarian: Swap chicken and bacon for sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables.
• Lighter Option: Omit the cream and reduce the Parmesan slightly for a lighter version.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced chili for a hint of heat.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, fettuccine, linguine, or penne work well with this recipe.

Can I make this ahead of time?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the components (cooked chicken and bacon) in advance and assemble the dish when ready to serve.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can omit it entirely or substitute with half-and-half or milk for a lighter option.

This Chicken Carbonara recipe is a perfect combination of simplicity and indulgence. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner or entertaining guests, this creamy and flavorful pasta dish will be a hit. Give it a try and let us know how it turned out for you!

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