Creamy Chicken Carbonara Recipe

There’s something irresistibly comforting about a bowl of creamy chicken carbonara. It’s rich, indulgent, and packed with flavor—perfect for a family dinner or a romantic night in. Today, I’m sharing my foolproof recipe for this Italian-inspired classic, complete with crispy bacon, tender chicken, and a luscious parmesan sauce. Let’s dive in!

Ingredients

1. Chicken Breast (2 medium fillets)

• Lean and tender, chicken breast is perfect for absorbing the creamy carbonara sauce. Slice it into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
• Prep Tip: Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel to ensure a golden sear.

2. Pasta (12 oz, preferably spaghetti or fettuccine)

• The heart of any carbonara! Spaghetti is traditional, but fettuccine works beautifully for a thicker bite.
• Prep Tip: Cook pasta al dente for a perfect texture—check it a minute before the package instructions suggest.

3. Egg Yolks (4 large yolks)

• They create the base of the creamy sauce without the need for cream.
• Prep Tip: Separate eggs when they’re cold—they’re easier to handle.

4. Parmesan Cheese (1 cup, freshly grated)

• Adds a nutty, savory flavor that brings everything together.
• Prep Tip: Grate it fresh for the best melting and flavor.

5. Bacon (6 slices, chopped)

• Smoky and crispy, bacon is a key player in carbonara’s signature taste.
• Prep Tip: Use thick-cut bacon for a meatier bite, and save the drippings for extra flavor.

6. Garlic (2 cloves, minced)

• Enhances the sauce with its aromatic warmth.
• Prep Tip: Smash the garlic with the flat side of your knife before mincing—it releases more flavor.

7. Olive Oil (1 tbsp)

• For sautéing the chicken to golden perfection.
• Prep Tip: Heat the oil until shimmering to prevent sticking.

8. Salt and Black Pepper (to taste)

• Balances and elevates every layer of flavor.
• Prep Tip: Add salt gradually, especially if your bacon and parmesan are salty.

9. Parsley (optional, for garnish)

• A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a fresh, vibrant touch to the final dish.

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How to Make Chicken Carbonara

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook until golden and fully cooked, about 6–8 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Crisp the Bacon

In the same skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Remove with a slotted spoon, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.

Step 4: Sauté Garlic

Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it.

Step 5: Combine Sauce Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together egg yolks, parmesan cheese, and a few tablespoons of reserved pasta water until smooth. Set aside.

Step 6: Assemble the Carbonara

Reduce the skillet heat to low. Return the cooked pasta, chicken, and bacon to the skillet. Slowly pour in the egg mixture while tossing constantly to create a creamy sauce. Add reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, to adjust the consistency.

Step 7: Season and Serve

Taste and season with additional salt and freshly cracked black pepper if needed. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley if desired.

Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet for cooking chicken, bacon, and combining ingredients
• Tongs or a large fork for tossing pasta
• Mixing bowl for preparing the sauce
• Sharp knife and cutting board for prepping ingredients

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, pre-cooked chicken can save time! Just shred or dice it and warm it in the skillet before adding to the pasta.

What can I substitute for bacon?

Pancetta is a traditional alternative with a similar flavor. For a non-pork option, smoked turkey or even mushrooms can work.

Why does my sauce curdle?

This happens if the skillet is too hot when adding the egg mixture. Make sure to reduce the heat and toss continuously to prevent scrambling.

Can I use cream in carbonara?

While traditional carbonara doesn’t use cream, a splash of heavy cream can be added for extra richness if desired.

What’s the best pasta for carbonara?

Spaghetti is the classic choice, but fettuccine, linguine, or bucatini are also great options.

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta, and double-check that all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Conclusion

I hope you loved this creamy chicken carbonara recipe as much as I do! It’s the perfect blend of indulgence and simplicity, making it a go-to for any occasion. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends on Facebook using the share buttons below or save it on Pinterest to try later. Happy cooking! 😊