Chicken Carbonara is a delicious twist on the classic Italian carbonara. Creamy, savory, and filled with tender chicken and crispy bacon, this pasta dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels indulgent yet easy to make. With a rich sauce made from eggs, Parmesan, and cream, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit with the whole family.
Why You’ll Love Chicken Carbonara
This dish is:
- Rich and Creamy: The perfect comfort food with a luxurious sauce.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Hearty and Filling: With chicken, bacon, and pasta, this dish is sure to satisfy your appetite.
For another creamy and indulgent meal, try Creamy Tuscan Chicken.
Ingredients for Chicken Carbonara
To make this delicious pasta, you’ll need:
- Chicken Breasts: Tender and juicy chicken for added protein.
- Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a smoky, savory flavor.
- Spaghetti: Classic carbonara pasta, but you can use fettuccine or penne as well.
- Egg Yolks: Essential for creating the creamy carbonara sauce.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, rich flavor to the sauce.
- Garlic: For extra flavor.
- Heavy Cream: To make the sauce even richer.
- Fresh Parsley: For garnish.
- Salt and Pepper: For seasoning.
Pair this dish with Garlic Butter Shrimp Linguine for a surf-and-turf pasta night.
How to Make Chicken Carbonara
- Cook the Chicken and Bacon: In a large skillet, cook the chicken breasts until browned and cooked through. Remove and slice into thin pieces. Cook the bacon in the same skillet until crispy, then set aside.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions.
- Make the Carbonara Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream. Add a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Combine Everything: Toss the cooked pasta with the chicken, bacon, and garlic. Remove from heat, then quickly stir in the egg mixture, creating a creamy sauce. Be careful not to scramble the eggs.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and more Parmesan. Serve immediately!
For a quick and flavorful meal, check out Spicy Sausage Cavatappi.
FAQs About Chicken Carbonara
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs will add more flavor and juiciness to the dish. - Can I make carbonara without cream?
Traditionally, carbonara is made without cream, but adding a small amount of cream makes the sauce even richer. - Can I substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano?
Absolutely! Pecorino Romano is a great substitute and adds a sharper flavor.
Health Benefits of Chicken Carbonara
While indulgent, Chicken Carbonara offers several benefits:
- Protein-Packed: Chicken and eggs provide a great source of protein to keep you full.
- Rich in Calcium: The Parmesan cheese provides a good amount of calcium for bone health.
- Comfort Food: Satisfying and filling, this dish is perfect for treating yourself after a long day.
For more hearty and nutritious dishes, try Healthy Veggie and Bean Burrito Bowl.
Must-Try Chicken Carbonara Recipe
Here’s a simple recipe to recreate this delicious dish at home:
Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts, cooked and sliced
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 4 egg yolks
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the chicken breasts and bacon in a large skillet until cooked through. Set aside.
- In a large pot, cook the pasta according to the package instructions.
- Whisk together the egg yolks, Parmesan, and cream in a bowl.
- Toss the pasta with the chicken, bacon, and garlic. Remove from heat and stir in the egg mixture.
- Garnish with parsley and serve.
For another Italian-inspired dish, pair this with Baked Ziti for a perfect pasta night.
Storing and Reheating Chicken Carbonara
- Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent the sauce from separating.
Conclusion: A Creamy and Indulgent Meal
Chicken Carbonara is the perfect comfort food, with its creamy, rich sauce and hearty ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an indulgent meal to impress guests, this dish is sure to be a favorite. Serve it with a crisp salad or a slice of garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal!