Chicken Carbonara 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With a total preparation and cook time of just 25 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of crispy bacon, tender chicken, and a rich, creamy sauce creates a harmonious and indulgent flavor profile.
• Versatile: You can substitute the fettuccine with spaghetti, bucatini, linguine, or capellini, depending on your preference or pantry stock.

Ingredients

• 12 oz. fettuccine
• 4 slices bacon
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 4 large eggs, beaten
• 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan, plus more for garnish
• 1/3 cup freshly chopped parsley, plus more for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the fettuccine according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water, and return the pasta to the pot.
2. Prepare the Bacon and Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon for 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and continue cooking until the bacon is crispy, about 2 to 3 minutes more. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and drain half of the fat from the skillet.
3. Cook the Chicken: Increase the skillet heat to medium-high. Season the chicken strips generously with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is no longer pink, approximately 10 minutes.
4. Combine Ingredients: Reduce the heat to low and return the bacon and garlic to the skillet. Toss to combine, then add the cooked pasta and mix until everything is well incorporated.
5. Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, beat together the eggs, Parmesan, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper. Pour this egg mixture over the pasta, tossing continuously until the pasta is coated. Add reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until the sauce reaches a creamy consistency.
6. Serve: Garnish with additional Parmesan and parsley. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and bacon. Instead, sauté mushrooms and spinach for a hearty vegetarian alternative.
• Seafood Twist: Replace the chicken with shrimp or scallops for a seafood variation.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced chili peppers when cooking the garlic for a spicy version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to maintain the sauce’s creaminess. Stir continuously to prevent the sauce from separating.

FAQs

What type of pasta works best for Chicken Carbonara?

Fettuccine is commonly used, but spaghetti, bucatini, linguine, or capellini are also suitable alternatives.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?

Yes, pre-cooked chicken can be used. Add it to the skillet along with the bacon and garlic to heat through before combining with the pasta.

Is it safe to eat the egg-based sauce?

The heat from the pasta cooks the eggs gently, creating a creamy sauce. Ensure the pasta is hot when mixing to achieve the desired consistency.

Can I substitute the bacon with another meat?

Pancetta or guanciale are traditional alternatives. Turkey bacon can also be used for a leaner option.

How can I prevent the eggs from scrambling in the sauce?

Toss the hot pasta with the egg mixture off the heat, stirring continuously to create a smooth, creamy sauce without scrambling the eggs.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare components like cooking the chicken and bacon in advance. Combine all ingredients just before serving.

What can I serve alongside Chicken Carbonara?

A light salad or steamed vegetables complement the richness of the dish. Garlic bread is also a popular side.

How can I make the sauce creamier?

Adding a splash of heavy cream to the egg mixture can result in a richer, creamier sauce.

Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?

Substitute Parmesan with a dairy-free alternative and ensure the pasta and other ingredients are dairy-free.

Can I freeze Chicken Carbonara?

Freezing is not recommended as the sauce may separate upon reheating, affecting the dish’s texture.

Conclusion

Chicken Carbonara is a versatile and indulgent dish that brings together simple ingredients to create a flavorful meal. Its quick preparation makes it ideal for weeknight dinners, while its rich taste ensures it remains a family favorite.

Chicken Carbonara 

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• Author: Isabella
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings

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Description

Chicken Carbonara is a creamy, indulgent pasta dish featuring tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a rich Parmesan sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this comforting classic is easy to prepare and bursting with flavor.

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Ingredients

• 12 oz. fettuccine
• 4 slices bacon
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 4 large eggs, beaten
• 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan, plus more for garnish
• 1/3 cup freshly chopped parsley, plus more for garnish

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Instructions

• Cook the Pasta:
  • Boil salted water in a large pot. Cook fettuccine to al dente, as per package instructions.
  • Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining. Return pasta to the pot.
• Prepare Bacon and Garlic:
  • In a skillet over medium heat, cook bacon for 5 minutes.
  • Add garlic, cook 2–3 more minutes until bacon is crispy.
  • Transfer mixture to a bowl. Drain half the skillet fat.
• Cook the Chicken:
  • Heat skillet to medium-high. Season chicken with salt and pepper.
  • Cook for 10 minutes, flipping halfway, until no longer pink.
• Combine Ingredients:
  • Lower heat to medium. Return bacon and garlic to the skillet.
  • Add cooked pasta, toss to combine.
• Prepare Sauce:
  • In a small bowl, whisk eggs, Parmesan, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper.
  • Pour sauce over pasta, tossing off heat to coat evenly.
  • Add pasta water gradually until sauce achieves desired creaminess.
• Serve:
  • Garnish with additional Parmesan and parsley. Serve immediately.

Notes

• Use spaghetti, bucatini, or linguine if preferred.
• Ensure the pasta is hot when mixing to cook the eggs gently.
• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Add water or cream when reheating to maintain sauce consistency.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian