There’s something magical about Carbonara – a dish so simple yet so luxurious. This Chicken Carbonara recipe takes the classic Italian favorite and adds a hearty twist with tender chicken strips, making it even more satisfying for the whole family. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleaser for guests, this dish will never disappoint. It’s a rich, creamy pasta dish with layers of savory flavors that come together effortlessly.
Let me take you on a little journey with this recipe. I remember the first time I made Chicken Carbonara – it was a crisp autumn evening, and the scent of garlic and turkey ham sizzling in the pan filled the kitchen with warmth. This dish is more than just a meal; it’s comfort in a bowl, a blend of tradition and creativity, and a reminder that sometimes, the simplest ingredients can create something extraordinary.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Satisfying: With minimal prep and cooking time, you can have a restaurant-quality meal ready in less than 30 minutes.
- Rich and Indulgent: The creamy sauce, made with just eggs and Parmesan, delivers an unmatched silkiness that feels utterly decadent.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable to your preferences – you can add your favorite vegetables or swap out the turkey ham for beef sausage to make it your own.
- Perfect for All Occasions: Whether it’s a casual dinner at home or a date night meal, this dish always impresses.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz. fettuccine – the perfect pasta for holding that luscious sauce.
- 4 slices turkey ham – adds a smoky, savory depth to the dish.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – for a burst of flavor.
- 1/2 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips – the star protein of the recipe.
- Kosher salt – for seasoning the pasta water and chicken.
- Freshly ground black pepper – to elevate the flavor of the sauce.
- 4 large eggs, beaten – the base of the creamy carbonara sauce.
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish – the key to the rich sauce.
- 1/3 cup freshly chopped parsley, plus more for garnish – adds a fresh, vibrant finish.
How to Make Chicken Carbonara:
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook until al dente, according to the package instructions. Reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta.
Tip: Al dente pasta holds up better to the creamy sauce and gives the dish the perfect texture.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken and Turkey Ham
While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the turkey ham and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly crisp. Remove it from the skillet and set it aside.
In the same skillet, add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté the chicken strips, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Transfer the chicken to the plate with the turkey ham.
Step 3: Create the Sauce Base
Lower the heat and add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
In a bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs and grated Parmesan cheese. This simple mixture is what creates the luxurious carbonara sauce.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Return the cooked fettuccine to the skillet with the garlic, and immediately remove it from the heat. Slowly pour the egg and cheese mixture over the hot pasta, tossing quickly to coat. The residual heat from the pasta will cook the eggs and create a velvety sauce.
Add the cooked chicken, turkey ham, and a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if necessary. Toss everything until well combined.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese for a burst of freshness and flavor. Serve immediately while the sauce is at its creamiest.
Helpful Tips:
- Keep the Heat Low: When mixing the eggs and pasta, ensure the skillet is off the heat to prevent the eggs from scrambling.
- Save Pasta Water: The starchy water helps achieve the perfect sauce consistency if it becomes too thick.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grated Parmesan and chopped parsley elevate the dish with bold, vibrant flavors.
Recipe Details:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing and Tossing
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Can be adapted for various diets (gluten-free, low-carb, etc.)
Notes:
- Perfect Sauce Texture: Always mix the egg and Parmesan off the heat to prevent scrambling and ensure a smooth sauce.
- Chicken Options: Grilled or leftover chicken works well and saves time.
- Freshness Matters: Use freshly grated Parmesan and parsley for the best flavor and presentation.
Storage Instructions:
If you have leftovers (a rare occurrence with this dish!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use another type of pasta?
Absolutely! Spaghetti, linguine, or even penne can work well for this recipe.
What can I substitute for turkey ham?
Beef sausage or turkey bacon are excellent substitutes that add similar smoky flavors.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, you can try using a dairy-free Parmesan alternative, though the flavor may differ slightly.
Related Recipes:
If you loved this Chicken Carbonara, here are a few more pasta recipes you’ll adore:
Conclusion:
This Chicken Carbonara is a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. It’s a celebration of simple ingredients turned into something extraordinary. Whether it’s your first time making carbonara or you’re a seasoned pro, this recipe guarantees a comforting, flavorful meal every time. So grab your favorite skillet and get cooking – your perfect pasta night awaits!
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Chicken Carbonara Recipe
Description
There’s something magical about Carbonara – a dish so simple yet so luxurious. This Chicken Carbonara recipe takes the classic Italian favorite and adds a hearty twist with tender chicken strips, making it even more satisfying for the whole family. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleaser for guests, this dish will never disappoint. It’s a rich, creamy pasta dish with layers of savory flavors that come together effortlessly.
Let me take you on a little journey with this recipe. I remember the first time I made Chicken Carbonara – it was a crisp autumn evening, and the scent of garlic and turkey ham sizzling in the pan filled the kitchen with warmth. This dish is more than just a meal; it’s comfort in a bowl, a blend of tradition and creativity, and a reminder that sometimes, the simplest ingredients can create something extraordinary.
Ingredients
- 12 oz. fettuccine – the perfect pasta for holding that luscious sauce.
- 4 slices turkey ham – adds a smoky, savory depth to the dish.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – for a burst of flavor.
- 1/2 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips – the star protein of the recipe.
- Kosher salt – for seasoning the pasta water and chicken.
- Freshly ground black pepper – to elevate the flavor of the sauce.
- 4 large eggs, beaten – the base of the creamy carbonara sauce.
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish – the key to the rich sauce.
- 1/3 cup freshly chopped parsley, plus more for garnish – adds a fresh, vibrant finish.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook until al dente, according to the package instructions. Reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta.
Tip: Al dente pasta holds up better to the creamy sauce and gives the dish the perfect texture.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken and Turkey Ham
While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the turkey ham and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly crisp. Remove it from the skillet and set it aside.
In the same skillet, add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté the chicken strips, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Transfer the chicken to the plate with the turkey ham.
Step 3: Create the Sauce Base
Lower the heat and add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
In a bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs and grated Parmesan cheese. This simple mixture is what creates the luxurious carbonara sauce.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Return the cooked fettuccine to the skillet with the garlic, and immediately remove it from the heat. Slowly pour the egg and cheese mixture over the hot pasta, tossing quickly to coat. The residual heat from the pasta will cook the eggs and create a velvety sauce.
Add the cooked chicken, turkey ham, and a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if necessary. Toss everything until well combined.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese for a burst of freshness and flavor. Serve immediately while the sauce is at its creamiest.
Notes
- Perfect Sauce Texture: Always mix the egg and Parmesan off the heat to prevent scrambling and ensure a smooth sauce.
- Chicken Options: Grilled or leftover chicken works well and saves time.
- Freshness Matters: Use freshly grated Parmesan and parsley for the best flavor and presentation.
