Chicken Carbonara is a comforting twist on the classic Italian carbonara, featuring sautéed chicken breasts for added protein. Perfect for a quick, delicious weeknight dinner, this dish is creamy, indulgent, and satisfying. The combination of eggs, Parmesan, and garlic creates a luscious sauce that clings to each strand of pasta, while fresh parsley adds a bright, herbaceous note.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and easy to make
- Perfect balance of creamy and savory
- Family-friendly, filling meal
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Fettuccine or Spaghetti: A versatile pasta option.
- Turkey Bacon: Provides a smoky flavor.
- Chicken Breasts: Adds lean protein.
- Garlic: Boosts the flavor.
- Eggs: Essential for the creamy carbonara sauce.
- Parmesan: For richness and depth.
- Fresh Parsley: Adds freshness to the dish.
How to Make Chicken Carbonara:
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving some pasta water.
- Cook Bacon: In a large skillet, sauté turkey bacon until crispy, then add garlic for flavor.
- Cook Chicken: In the same skillet, cook chicken strips seasoned with salt and pepper until browned and cooked through.
- Prepare Sauce: Beat eggs with Parmesan and parsley, then toss with the cooked pasta, bacon, and chicken.
- Combine: Add a bit of reserved pasta water to the mixture to create a creamy sauce. Stir until well combined.
- Serve: Garnish with extra Parmesan and parsley, and enjoy!
Cooking Tips:
- Stir continuously when adding the egg mixture to the pasta to avoid scrambling the eggs.
- For a richer flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Helpful Tips:
- Keep some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency.
- This dish is best enjoyed immediately but can be stored for up to two days in the fridge.
Details:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Notes:
For a dairy-free option, substitute Parmesan with a vegan alternative, and use plant-based bacon for a lighter dish.
Nutritional Information:
Per serving: Calories: 480 | Protein: 32g | Fat: 18g | Carbs: 54g
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use chicken thighs? Yes, thighs will add more richness to the dish.
- Can I make this dish ahead? Carbonara is best served fresh, but you can prep the chicken and bacon ahead.
Storage Instructions:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little water to loosen the sauce.
Related Recipes:
- Creamy Alfredo Pasta
- Chicken Fettuccine with Spinach
Conclusion:
Chicken Carbonara offers a delicious, creamy pasta dish that combines simple ingredients with a robust flavor profile. Perfect for quick dinners or special occasions, it’s a versatile meal that will surely be a hit at the table.
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Chicken Carbonara
Description
Chicken Carbonara is a comforting twist on the classic Italian carbonara, featuring sautéed chicken breasts for added protein. Perfect for a quick, delicious weeknight dinner, this dish is creamy, indulgent, and satisfying. The combination of eggs, Parmesan, and garlic creates a luscious sauce that clings to each strand of pasta, while fresh parsley adds a bright, herbaceous note.
Ingredients
- Cook the Pasta: Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving some pasta water.
- Cook Bacon: In a large skillet, sauté turkey bacon until crispy, then add garlic for flavor.
- Cook Chicken: In the same skillet, cook chicken strips seasoned with salt and pepper until browned and cooked through.
- Prepare Sauce: Beat eggs with Parmesan and parsley, then toss with the cooked pasta, bacon, and chicken.
- Combine: Add a bit of reserved pasta water to the mixture to create a creamy sauce. Stir until well combined.
- Serve: Garnish with extra Parmesan and parsley, and enjoy!
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving some pasta water.
- Cook Bacon: In a large skillet, sauté turkey bacon until crispy, then add garlic for flavor.
- Cook Chicken: In the same skillet, cook chicken strips seasoned with salt and pepper until browned and cooked through.
- Prepare Sauce: Beat eggs with Parmesan and parsley, then toss with the cooked pasta, bacon, and chicken.
- Combine: Add a bit of reserved pasta water to the mixture to create a creamy sauce. Stir until well combined.
- Serve: Garnish with extra Parmesan and parsley, and enjoy!
Notes
For a dairy-free option, substitute Parmesan with a vegan alternative, and use plant-based bacon for a lighter dish.
