Creamy Chicken Carbonara Recipe

There’s something magical about the silky richness of Creamy Chicken Carbonara. This dish takes the classic carbonara and adds tender, juicy chicken for an extra hearty touch. With its creamy sauce, smoky bacon, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s comfort food at its finest.

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I first made this recipe on a whim, combining pantry staples with a pack of chicken breasts I had on hand. The result was a decadent, restaurant-quality meal that’s now a family favorite. Let’s dive in and discover how easy it is to make this irresistible dish!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Carbonara

If you’ve never made carbonara before, get ready to fall in love! This Creamy Chicken Carbonara will become a go-to dinner for so many reasons:

First, it’s a quick and easy recipe that comes together in just 30 minutes. Perfect for weeknights or when you’re craving something satisfying but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

Second, this dish delivers restaurant-quality flavor without the hefty price tag. With a rich, creamy sauce, tender chicken, and crispy bacon, every bite feels like a treat.

Finally, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the combination of flavors, making it a great choice for family dinners or even casual entertaining.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple, high-quality ingredients. Let’s break them down:

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work perfectly. Slice them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and easy eating. Season generously for the best flavor.
• Bacon: Use thick-cut bacon for the perfect balance of smokiness and crispiness. Pancetta is a great substitute if you want to go the more traditional route.
• Pasta: Spaghetti or fettuccine are classic choices, but you can also use linguine or even rigatoni for a heartier feel.
• Eggs and Parmesan Cheese: These are the heart of the carbonara sauce. The eggs create a creamy consistency when mixed with the hot pasta, and the Parmesan adds a sharp, nutty flavor.
• Heavy Cream: While traditional carbonara doesn’t include cream, this recipe adds it for extra richness and indulgence.
• Garlic: A couple of cloves of minced garlic add depth and aroma to the dish.
• Parsley: Fresh parsley brightens the dish and adds a pop of color. It’s optional, but highly recommended.

Special Equipment:

You’ll need a large skillet or sauté pan for cooking the chicken and bacon, and a big pot for boiling the pasta. A whisk is helpful for mixing the sauce.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Carbonara

Making this dish is easier than you might think. Follow these steps to bring it all together:

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta until al dente, according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.
3. Cook the Chicken: Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then add it to the skillet. Cook until golden brown and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside with the bacon.
4. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together eggs, grated Parmesan, and a splash of heavy cream. Set aside.
5. Combine Everything: Return the skillet to medium heat and add the minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, then add the cooked pasta, chicken, and bacon. Remove the skillet from the heat, and quickly stir in the egg mixture, tossing vigorously to coat the pasta. Add a splash of reserved pasta water to create a smooth, creamy sauce.
6. Finish and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley before serving.

Storage Options

Creamy Chicken Carbonara tastes best fresh, but leftovers can be stored and reheated with a few tips:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This dish doesn’t freeze well due to the creamy sauce, as it can separate when reheated. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or cream to restore the sauce’s creamy texture.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is versatile and can be adapted to suit your preferences. Here are a few ideas:

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and bacon, and add sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables for a plant-based twist.
• Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce for a bit of heat.
• Cheese Variations: Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano for a saltier, sharper flavor.
• Add Greens: Stir in fresh spinach or arugula for a pop of color and added nutrients.
• Use Turkey Bacon: For a lighter option, substitute turkey bacon or even diced ham.

Don’t be afraid to experiment – this recipe is forgiving and can be tailored to your taste!

With its rich, creamy sauce, savory chicken, and crispy bacon, Creamy Chicken Carbonara is a dish that delivers every time. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or impressing guests, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Enjoy every bite! 🍝

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