Get ready to fall in love with the ultimate comfort food: Chicken Carbonara. This dish takes everything you adore about classic carbonara—the smoky bacon, silky sauce, and satisfying pasta—and adds juicy, golden chicken for extra flavor and protein. With its impossibly creamy sauce, savory layers, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, it’s a weeknight dinner that feels like a decadent treat every single time. If you crave a cozy meal that brings everyone running to the table, this Chicken Carbonara will be your new go-to recipe.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Chicken Carbonara is how a few simple, top-quality ingredients come together to create magic. Each layer adds something special, from rich creaminess to lively color and irresistible texture. Gather these kitchen staples, and you’ll be amazed by the transformation.
- Pasta: Choose spaghetti or fettuccine for the perfect base—these noodles cling to the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Olive oil: Just a splash coats the skillet and gives the chicken an appealing golden edge without overpowering the flavors.
- Chicken breasts: Bite-sized pieces cook quickly and soak up all the savory juices, making every forkful hearty.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning the chicken and the final sauce; don’t be shy!
- Bacon: Chopped and crisped, it brings smoky, salty depth—the more texture the better.
- Garlic: Adds aromatic warmth and that unmistakable Italian character; fresh garlic makes a big difference.
- Eggs and egg yolk: The main players for carbonara’s creamy, glossy sauce—be sure to use fresh, quality eggs.
- Freshly grated Parmesan: Never skimp here—use real Parmigiano-Reggiano, and grate it yourself for the best melt and taste.
- Heavy cream: It’s not strictly traditional, but it makes your Chicken Carbonara extra-luxurious and luscious.
- Black pepper: Freshly cracked is best, adding a gentle heat that perks up every cream-laden bite.
- Parsley (optional): Chopped parsley is a finishing touch for color and a hint of fresh, herbal flavor.
How to Make Chicken Carbonara
Step 1: Boil the Pasta
Bring a generous pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta until just al dente. This ensures your noodles are tender but still have that satisfying bite. Before draining, don’t forget to scoop out half a cup of the cooking water—the starch helps bring the sauce together later.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
While the pasta is bubbling away, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper, then cook them for about 5 to 7 minutes until they’re browned and cooked through. Set the chicken aside; it will finish its journey in the silky sauce.
Step 3: Cook the Bacon and Garlic
In the same skillet, toss in your bacon bits and let them sizzle until they’re irresistibly crisp. Drain off the excess fat, leaving just a tablespoon for flavor, then add the minced garlic. Stir for about a minute until the kitchen fills with that glorious garlicky aroma, but don’t let the garlic brown.
Step 4: Whisk the Sauce
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the eggs, egg yolk, freshly grated Parmesan, heavy cream, and extra black pepper. Give it a good whisk so the mixture is smooth and well blended—this will ensure your Chicken Carbonara sauce is silky and cohesive, rather than streaky.
Step 5: Toss and Finish the Carbonara
Add the drained pasta to the skillet over low heat. Swiftly pour in the egg and cheese mixture, tossing continuously off the direct heat so the eggs don’t scramble but instead form a luscious, creamy sauce. Splash in reserved pasta water as needed until the consistency is just right. Gently fold in the chicken, making sure everything is evenly coated and heated through.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Plate up your Chicken Carbonara straight away, showering the top with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. This dish is best savored hot and creamy, just seconds out of the pan for peak indulgence.
How to Serve Chicken Carbonara
Garnishes
A big bowl of Chicken Carbonara always looks more inviting when topped with a flourish! Sprinkle on plenty of freshly chopped parsley for brightness, and don’t be shy with an extra handful of Parmesan or a shower of cracked black pepper. A little grated lemon zest can add unexpected zing, if you want to take things up a notch.
Side Dishes
To round out the meal, try serving your Chicken Carbonara with a crisp green salad dressed in a simple vinaigrette, or some garlicky sautéed greens for a lovely contrast. A side of warm, crusty bread is perfect for mopping up every last bit of that creamy sauce. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli also pair well and balance out the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re feeling playful, pile the Chicken Carbonara into individual pasta bowls and top each with a poached egg for an extra layer of decadence. Twirl the noodles into nests for an elegant plated look, or serve family-style in a large, beautiful serving bowl at the center of your table, letting everyone help themselves. For a casual gathering, tuck the carbonara into small ramekins for easy, party-ready portions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover Chicken Carbonara (lucky you!), store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. As it sits, the flavors meld even further, but the sauce may thicken—just remember to give it a good stir before reheating.
Freezing
While creamy pasta sauces can be a little tricky to freeze without changing texture, you can freeze Chicken Carbonara for up to one month. Spoon it into freezer-safe containers and let it cool completely before sealing. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the Chicken Carbonara gently on the stovetop over low heat, splashing in a little milk, cream, or reserved pasta water to loosen up the sauce as needed. Stir frequently to keep things creamy and to avoid scrambling the eggs—low and slow is the key to revived, luscious leftovers.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While spaghetti or fettuccine are traditional, you can use linguine, bucatini, or even penne for a fun twist. Just make sure to cook your chosen pasta al dente to best soak up all that creamy sauce.
What’s the secret to a creamy sauce without scrambled eggs?
The magic is in tossing the hot pasta with the egg mixture quickly and off the direct heat. This ensures the eggs gently thicken into a glossy sauce rather than cooking into bits. Practice patience and keep the motion going—your Chicken Carbonara will turn out perfectly silky every time.
Can I make Chicken Carbonara without bacon?
If you don’t eat pork or want a lighter version, you can swap in turkey bacon, smoked chicken, or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian-friendly choice. No matter which you choose, you’ll still get delicious, savory satisfaction.
Is the heavy cream essential?
Traditional carbonara doesn’t use cream, but in Chicken Carbonara, it makes the sauce extra rich and indulgent. If you prefer a lighter texture, you can omit the cream, but you may want to add a bit more reserved pasta water to achieve a creamy finish.
How can I make Chicken Carbonara ahead of time?
For best results, make the components in advance: cook and refrigerate the chicken and bacon, and prep all your ingredients. Assemble and toss everything together just before serving—this keeps the sauce glossy and the pasta tender, not mushy.
Final Thoughts
It’s hard not to swoon over the cozy magic of Chicken Carbonara. It’s a dish that feels both special and effortless, perfect for treating yourself or wowing friends and family. Give it a try—even on your busiest weeknight, this heartwarming pasta delivers flavor, comfort, and a memorable meal in every bite.
Print
Chicken Carbonara Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a creamy and flavorful twist on the classic carbonara with this Chicken Carbonara recipe. Tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce come together to create a satisfying pasta dish that’s perfect for any day of the week.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 large eggs
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water and cook pasta until al dente. Reserve some pasta water, drain, and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Season and cook chicken until browned and cooked through. Set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: Cook bacon until crispy, then sauté garlic. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, egg yolk, Parmesan, cream, and pepper. Mix with pasta over low heat.
- Combine and Serve: Add chicken to pasta, toss to heat through, and serve topped with parsley and extra Parmesan.
Notes
- Temper the egg mixture by quickly tossing with hot pasta to prevent curdling.
- Pancetta can be substituted for a more traditional flavor.
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