Best-ever Chicken Carbonara Recipe

Imagine twirling creamy, golden pasta ribbons, speckled with crispy bacon, tender chicken, and a luscious Parmesan sauce. This Best-Ever Chicken Carbonara takes the classic Italian favorite to the next level with the addition of juicy chicken for a hearty, satisfying meal.

this Recipe

I first made this dish on a whim, combining my love for traditional carbonara with leftover grilled chicken. The result? A dish so rich, comforting, and decadent that it became a family favorite overnight. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Carbonara

This Chicken Carbonara has all the makings of a standout recipe, perfect for weeknights or special occasions.

• Creamy, Dreamy Sauce: The silky sauce is made without cream, relying on egg yolks and Parmesan for authentic richness.
• Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Adds protein and heartiness, making this dish a complete, satisfying meal.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a lifesaver for busy evenings.
• Customizable: It’s easy to swap ingredients or add veggies to make it your own.

Let’s look at the ingredients that make this dish truly unforgettable.

Ingredients Notes

To make the Best-Ever Chicken Carbonara, you’ll need the following simple, high-quality ingredients:

• Pasta: Spaghetti is the traditional choice, but fettuccine or linguine also work well. Use your favorite gluten-free pasta if needed.
• Chicken: Grilled or pan-seared chicken breasts or thighs bring juicy, flavorful protein to the dish.
• Egg Yolks: These form the base of the creamy carbonara sauce. Using yolks only ensures the sauce is rich and smooth.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds nutty, salty flavor to the sauce. Avoid pre-shredded varieties for the best texture.
• Bacon or Pancetta: The crispy, salty goodness of bacon or pancetta is essential for authentic carbonara flavor.
• Garlic: Adds aromatic depth to the dish.
• Olive Oil: Helps sauté the bacon and chicken while adding richness.
• Black Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper enhances the flavors and adds a hint of spice.

How To Make the Best-Ever Chicken Carbonara

Follow these steps for a foolproof Chicken Carbonara that’s better than any restaurant version:

1. Cook the Pasta
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.
2. Cook the Chicken
   While the pasta cooks, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 4-5 minutes per side. Let rest, then slice into strips or bite-sized pieces.
3. Crisp the Bacon
   In the same skillet, add diced bacon or pancetta and cook until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
4. Prepare the Sauce
   In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, grated Parmesan, and a generous amount of black pepper. Set aside.
5. Combine Everything
   Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the bacon fat, tossing to coat. Remove the skillet from heat and quickly stir in the egg yolk mixture, tossing vigorously to create a creamy sauce. Add reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
6. Add Chicken and Bacon
   Stir in the sliced chicken and crispy bacon, ensuring everything is evenly coated in the sauce.
7. Garnish and Serve
   Plate the pasta, garnish with additional Parmesan and black pepper, and serve immediately.

Storage Options

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers for a quick and delicious meal later:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving, as it may scramble the eggs in the sauce.

Variations and Substitutions

This Chicken Carbonara is easy to adapt to your preferences:

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and bacon, and add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a veggie-packed version.
• Add Veggies: Stir in peas, roasted cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for extra color and flavor.
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil for a kick of heat.
• Low-Carb Version: Use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of traditional pasta.
• Cheese Alternatives: Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano for a sharper, tangier flavor.

This Best-Ever Chicken Carbonara is proof that a simple, well-executed recipe can create extraordinary results. It’s creamy, comforting, and bursting with flavor—everything you could want in a pasta dish. Serve it with a side of garlic bread and a crisp green salad for a meal that’s sure to impress!

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