Chicken Carbonara is a delightful twist on the classic Italian pasta dish, combining tender pieces of chicken with a creamy, savory sauce that clings perfectly to each strand of spaghetti. The rich flavors of pancetta, garlic, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese meld together to create an irresistible comfort food that is both satisfying and gourmet. This recipe showcases the beauty of simple ingredients coming together to create a dish that is perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to special gatherings.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will love this Chicken Carbonara recipe because it captures the essence of traditional carbonara while adding a protein-packed twist with chicken. The creamy sauce, enriched with egg yolks and cheese, delivers a luscious mouthfeel that is incredibly indulgent without being overly complicated. This dish is not only quick to prepare—taking just under 30 minutes from start to finish—but it also fits well into a busy lifestyle. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that will impress your family and friends, making it a perfect choice for entertaining.
Tips and Tricks
- Use Al Dente Pasta: Make sure to cook your spaghetti al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the hot sauce.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Always save a cup of pasta water before draining. It can be used to adjust the sauce’s consistency and add extra flavor.
- Temperature Matters: Ensure your chicken is cooked through but still juicy by letting it rest after cooking. This keeps the meat tender and flavorful.
- Don’t Skip the Cheese: Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-grated for a richer taste and better melt.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Chicken: Avoid drying out your chicken by cooking it just until it’s no longer pink in the center.
- Adding Eggs to Hot Pasta: Make sure the pasta has cooled slightly before adding the egg mixture to prevent scrambling.
- Using Low-Quality Ingredients: The flavor of this dish relies heavily on its ingredients, so opt for high-quality chicken, pasta, and cheese.
- Neglecting to Season: Don’t forget to season each component, especially the chicken and pasta, to build layers of flavor.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prep several components of this Chicken Carbonara in advance. Cook and dice the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also chop your garlic and measure out the cheese, making it easier to throw everything together when you’re ready to cook. Just keep in mind that the sauce is best made fresh, but you can prepare the ingredients and the pasta in advance and assemble them quickly.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Swap out the chicken for sautéed mushrooms or a medley of seasonal vegetables.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the chicken while cooking for a little heat.
- Different Proteins: Try using shrimp or pancetta instead of chicken for a different flavor profile.
- Whole Wheat Pasta: For a healthier option, use whole wheat spaghetti for added fiber.
How to Serve
Serve your Chicken Carbonara hot, straight from the pan to the plate for a rustic presentation. Garnish generously with freshly cracked black pepper and a sprinkle of parsley for a pop of color. Pair it with a simple side salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or some garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Pairing Suggestions
For drink pairings, a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or a light-bodied red such as Chianti complements the richness of the carbonara beautifully. Alternatively, a refreshing sparkling water with a slice of lemon can cleanse the palate. For a side dish, consider a light arugula salad with cherry tomatoes. For dessert, a classic tiramisu or a scoop of gelato would round off the meal perfectly.
How to Store
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, make sure to cool the dish completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container; it can be kept for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of pasta water to restore the sauce’s creaminess.
Equipment Needed
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Skillet or frying pan for cooking the chicken and sauce
- Mixing bowl for combining the egg and cheese mixture
- Tongs or a pasta fork for tossing the pasta
- Grater for cheese
Dietary Adaptations
To make a dairy-free version, substitute the Parmesan with nutritional yeast and use a plant-based cream alternative. For gluten-free options, use gluten-free pasta and ensure the chicken and other ingredients are free from gluten cross-contamination.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the spring and summer, consider adding fresh peas or asparagus for a burst of color and sweetness. In the fall, roasted butternut squash could be a lovely addition to bring in seasonal flavors.
Cost Breakdown
The estimated cost for this Chicken Carbonara recipe is around $15 for four servings, averaging about $3.75 per serving. To save money, consider using frozen chicken or generic brands of pasta and cheese.
Kitchen Hacks
- Quickly peel garlic by crushing it with the flat side of a knife.
- To prevent tears while chopping onions, try chilling them in the fridge for 30 minutes before cutting.
- Use a pasta pot with a built-in strainer for easier draining.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use other types of pasta? Yes, you can substitute spaghetti with fettuccine, penne, or any pasta you prefer.
- What if I don’t have pancetta? You can use bacon, though the flavor will be slightly different.
- Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Absolutely! Just use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Chicken Carbonara
Chicken Carbonara is a delightful twist on the classic Italian pasta dish, combining tender pieces of chicken with a creamy, savory sauce that clings perfectly to each strand of spaghetti.
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 4 oz pancetta, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the pancetta until crispy. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the diced chicken, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together egg yolks, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with chicken and pancetta. Remove from heat and pour the egg mixture over the pasta, tossing quickly to coat.
- If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until desired consistency is reached.
- Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan and parsley.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 779Total Fat 51gSaturated Fat 25gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 22gCholesterol 345mgSodium 675mgCarbohydrates 23gFiber 1gSugar 3gProtein 54g
Dinnerfocus.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Carbonara is a delightful and comforting dish that is easy to master. With its creamy sauce and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this recipe is versatile enough to adapt to various tastes and dietary needs. Enjoy the process of making it, and savor every creamy, cheesy bite!
