Best Chicken Carbonara Recipe

There's nothing quite like the creamy, savory flavors of Chicken Carbonara. This classic Italian-inspired dish combines tender chicken, crispy pancetta, and perfectly cooked pasta all tossed in a velvety sauce. It's comfort food at its finest.

I first discovered this recipe while searching for a way to elevate a weeknight dinner. What started as a simple experiment quickly became a household favorite, and now it's a staple in our rotation. Let me show you why this dish is worth making tonight.

Why You'll Love This Chicken Carbonara

Get ready to discover your new favorite pasta recipe. This Chicken Carbonara is everything you want in a meal: easy, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying.

First, it’s incredibly quick to make. You can have this on the table in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner guests. Despite its short cooking time, it tastes like something you'd order at a fine Italian restaurant.

Another reason to love this dish is its combination of flavors and textures. The tender, juicy chicken pairs beautifully with the crispy pancetta and the creamy sauce. Every bite is rich, indulgent, and absolutely delicious.

This recipe is also versatile. Whether you prefer spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne, the pasta shape is up to you. Plus, it's a great way to use up leftover chicken or substitute ingredients based on what you have on hand.

Finally, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. From picky eaters to pasta lovers, everyone at the table will want seconds. It’s hearty enough to be a standalone meal but pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or garlic bread.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Chicken Carbonara lies in its simple yet perfectly balanced ingredients. Each one plays a key role in creating this irresistible dish.

The chicken is the star of the show. I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces. Thighs are slightly more flavorful and juicy, but breasts work just as well if that’s what you have.

Pancetta adds a salty, crispy element to the dish. If pancetta isn’t available, you can use bacon as a substitute. For a lighter option, try turkey bacon, though it won’t have the same richness.

The sauce is a creamy mixture of eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a touch of pasta water. The key is to use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture. Avoid pre-grated cheese, as it doesn’t melt as smoothly.

For the pasta, traditional spaghetti is a classic choice, but any long or short pasta will work. The key is cooking it al dente so it holds up to the rich sauce.

Don’t forget garlic and parsley to round out the flavors. Garlic adds a savory depth, while fresh parsley provides a bright, herbaceous finish.

How To Make This Chicken Carbonara

Creating Chicken Carbonara is easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps to achieve restaurant-quality results at home.

Start by cooking the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve a cup of the starchy pasta water before draining, as it’s essential for the sauce.

While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the pancetta and cook until crispy, then remove it with a slotted spoon, leaving the flavorful drippings in the pan. In the same skillet, cook the chicken pieces until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set it aside with the pancetta.

In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs and grated Parmesan cheese until smooth. This will form the base of your sauce.

Return the drained pasta to the skillet (off the heat) and quickly toss with the egg and cheese mixture. The residual heat from the pasta will gently cook the eggs, creating a creamy sauce. Add the reserved pasta water a little at a time to achieve your desired consistency.

Finally, stir in the cooked chicken, crispy pancetta, and minced garlic. Toss everything together until well coated. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese before serving.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, Chicken Carbonara stores well for later enjoyment. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving, as it can cause the sauce to become too thick or dry.

This dish is not ideal for freezing, as the creamy sauce can separate and change texture when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a couple of days.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about Chicken Carbonara is how adaptable it is to your preferences and pantry staples.

For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream for the eggs in the sauce. It will still be creamy but with fewer calories.

Vegetarians can skip the chicken and pancetta, adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for a meatless twist.

If you prefer a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce. It’s a fun way to spice up the classic flavors.

Swap out Parmesan cheese for Pecorino Romano if you prefer a sharper, tangier flavor. Or, use a combination of both for a more complex taste.

Experiment with different proteins like shrimp or grilled salmon for a seafood version. The possibilities are endless, and this dish is a wonderful canvas for culinary creativity.

With its simple ingredients, quick preparation, and rich, comforting flavors, Chicken Carbonara is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you're cooking for a special occasion or a casual dinner, this dish never disappoints. Enjoy!

Print