Best-ever Chicken Carbonara Recipe

There's nothing quite like the aroma of sizzling chicken and creamy pasta filling your kitchen on a busy weeknight. This Chicken Carbonara is a rich, indulgent dish that feels like it came straight out of a trattoria, yet it's surprisingly easy to whip up at home.

I first discovered this recipe while experimenting with classic carbonara, but wanted a heartier version to satisfy my family. The result? A velvety sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and tender chicken that has become a dinner staple in our household.

Why You'll Love This Chicken Carbonara

Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite comfort food. This Chicken Carbonara combines traditional Italian flavors with a few easy twists to make it perfect for weeknight cooking.

First, it’s incredibly simple and quick to prepare. You can have this delicious dinner ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings when you need something satisfying and stress-free.

The flavors are absolutely divine. Creamy sauce, smoky pancetta, and savory chicken create a combination that’s impossible to resist. Even picky eaters will come back for seconds (and thirds).

Not only is it delicious, but it’s also budget-friendly. Using everyday pantry staples like pasta, eggs, and Parmesan means you can serve a restaurant-quality meal without breaking the bank.

Lastly, it’s a dish that’s endlessly versatile. You can swap out proteins, adjust the spices, or even add veggies like peas or mushrooms to suit your preferences. It’s the perfect recipe to adapt to whatever you have on hand.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Chicken Carbonara lies in its balance of simple ingredients, each working together to create a harmonious dish. Here's a closer look at what makes this recipe shine.

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe, as they cook quickly and stay juicy. For extra flavor, season generously with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika before cooking.

Pasta: Spaghetti is a classic choice for carbonara, but you can use fettuccine, linguine, or even penne for a heartier texture. Look for high-quality pasta to ensure the sauce clings perfectly.

Eggs and Parmesan: These two ingredients form the foundation of the creamy sauce. Use fresh eggs and finely grated Parmesan for the best results. Pecorino Romano can be substituted for an extra tangy kick.

Pancetta or Bacon: Pancetta provides authentic Italian flair, but bacon works wonderfully in its place. Either option adds a smoky, savory depth to the dish.

Garlic and Onion: These aromatic ingredients elevate the flavor profile, adding a touch of sweetness and complexity to the dish.

For equipment, a large skillet and a sturdy pot for boiling pasta are all you need. Having a whisk on hand makes blending the sauce a breeze.

How To Make This Chicken Carbonara

Making this Chicken Carbonara is a straightforward process that’s both fun and rewarding. Follow these steps to achieve perfect results every time.

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water for the pasta. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining.

While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced pancetta or bacon and cook until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.

Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika, then add it to the same skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove and let it rest before slicing into bite-sized pieces.

In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, grated Parmesan, and a generous pinch of black pepper. Gradually add a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water to temper the mixture, creating a silky sauce.

Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Toss in the cooked pasta, ensuring it’s evenly coated in the flavorful oil. Reduce the heat to low and quickly pour in the egg mixture, tossing continuously to avoid scrambling the eggs.

Add the sliced chicken and crispy pancetta back to the skillet, stirring gently to combine. If the sauce seems too thick, add more reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.

Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan and freshly cracked black pepper.

Storage Options

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, Chicken Carbonara can be stored and enjoyed later with a few simple tips.

Refrigerate the dish in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When reheating, use a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce and restore its creamy texture.

Freezing is not recommended for this recipe, as the sauce may separate upon thawing. It’s best to enjoy it fresh for the fullest flavor.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. Here are a few ways to make it your own:

• Swap chicken for shrimp or diced turkey for a fun protein twist.
• Add a handful of fresh spinach or peas for a pop of color and extra nutrients.
• Use gluten-free pasta to make it celiac-friendly.
• Replace Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a different cheese profile.
• Spice things up with a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil for some heat.

The possibilities are endless, so don’t hesitate to get creative and tailor this recipe to your tastes. You’re sure to end up with a dish that’s just as satisfying as the original.

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