Chicken Carbonara adds a delicious twist to the classic Italian pasta dish by incorporating tender, juicy chicken into the mix. This version maintains the creamy, cheesy essence of traditional Carbonara, using eggs and Parmesan to create the sauce, with the addition of chicken to make it even more satisfying. Perfect for a comforting dinner, this recipe is sure to please both Carbonara and chicken lovers alike.
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces spaghetti or linguine
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 ounces pancetta or bacon, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
- Prep the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Remove from the skillet, let it rest for a few minutes, then slice into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Cook the Pancetta: In the same skillet used for chicken, add the diced pancetta or bacon. Cook over medium heat until crispy. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Remove from the heat.
- Make the Carbonara Sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, and black pepper until well combined.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Quickly add the hot, drained pasta to the skillet with the pancetta and garlic, tossing to combine. Add the sliced chicken. Pour the egg and cheese mixture over the pasta, using tongs to toss rapidly until the eggs thicken and form a creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. The residual heat from the pasta will cook the eggs but be careful not to scramble them.
- Serve: Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Serve the Chicken Carbonara immediately, garnished with extra grated Parmesan and chopped parsley.
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 650
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Protein: 45g
Prep and Cooking Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Servings:
- Serves: 4 people
Chicken Carbonara is a rich and creamy pasta dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in. The addition of chicken makes it a hearty meal that’s sure to satisfy. Enjoy this delicious twist on a classic Italian dish!
