Creamy Chicken Carbonara

Creamy Chicken Carbonara is a comforting and indulgent dish that’s a twist on the classic Italian recipe. Juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and pasta are coated in a rich, creamy sauce made with eggs, cheese, and garlic. This satisfying dish comes together quickly and is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A creamy and hearty meal that’s easy to make.
• Combines the best of pasta, chicken, and bacon.
• Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Perfect for a family dinner or entertaining guests.
• Customizable with your favorite add-ins.

Ingredients

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

• Spaghetti or your preferred pasta
• Chicken breasts or thighs, diced
• Bacon, diced
• Eggs
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Garlic, minced
• Heavy cream (optional for extra creaminess)
• Salt and pepper
• Olive oil or butter
• Optional: Fresh parsley or red pepper flakes for garnish

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Cook the Chicken:
   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. Cook the Bacon:
   • In the same skillet, cook diced bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving a small amount of bacon grease in the pan.
4. Prepare the Sauce:
   • In a bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream (if using). Season with salt and pepper.
5. Combine the Ingredients:
   • Lower the heat and return the pasta to the skillet. Add the cooked chicken and bacon. Pour the egg mixture over the pasta, tossing quickly to coat.
   • Add reserved pasta water a little at a time, stirring constantly, until the sauce is creamy and clings to the pasta.
6. Serve:
   • Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan, and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

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

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken and bacon with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini.
• Cheesy Upgrade: Mix in Pecorino Romano or Gruyère for added depth.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta.
• Herbaceous Flavor: Add fresh thyme, rosemary, or basil for extra aroma.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to restore the sauce’s consistency.
• Freezing: Freezing is not recommended as the creamy sauce may separate.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, shred or dice pre-cooked chicken and add it to the skillet when combining the ingredients.

2. Is heavy cream necessary?

Traditional carbonara doesn’t use cream, but it adds richness. You can omit it for a classic version.

3. Can I make this dairy-free?

Use dairy-free Parmesan and skip the cream.

4. What type of pasta is best?

Spaghetti is traditional, but fettuccine, linguine, or penne also work well.

5. How do I prevent scrambled eggs in the sauce?

Remove the skillet from the heat before adding the egg mixture, and toss constantly to gently cook the eggs into a creamy sauce.

6. Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Peas, spinach, or cherry tomatoes are great additions to this dish.

7. Can I use turkey bacon or pancetta?

Yes, both are excellent substitutes for traditional bacon.

8. How do I ensure the chicken stays juicy?

Don’t overcook the chicken; cook just until it’s no longer pink in the center.

9. Can I use Parmesan from a jar?

Freshly grated Parmesan is recommended for the best flavor and texture.

10. What sides go well with this dish?

A fresh green salad or garlic bread makes a perfect accompaniment.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken Carbonara is a decadent and satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress. With its rich, creamy sauce and hearty ingredients, this recipe is a delicious twist on the classic dish. Serve it for dinner tonight and enjoy the irresistible combination of chicken, bacon, and pasta!

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