Carbonara is a traditional Italian dish that has won the hearts of food lovers all around the world. Known for its creamy texture and rich flavor, Carbonara is often made with pancetta or guanciale, combined with eggs, cheese, and pasta. However, in this version, we’re taking a delicious detour by adding chicken to the mix! If you love creamy pasta dishes and crave the bold flavors of Italian cuisine, this Creamy Chicken Carbonara Recipe will become your go-to comfort food. This recipe offers the same mouthwatering flavors but with a lighter twist. Let’s dive into the world of Chicken Carbonara, where creamy meets savory!
What is Chicken Carbonara?
Chicken Carbonara is an Italian-inspired dish that takes the classic Italian Carbonara recipe and replaces the traditional pancetta or bacon with tender, juicy chicken. The chicken is cooked and then combined with a silky, creamy sauce made of eggs, cheese, and pasta water. This dish is a beautiful balance of savory, creamy, and comforting flavors, making it a great option for family meals or special dinners.
Unlike the original Carbonara, which can be a bit heavy with its bacon or pancetta base, the chicken in this recipe adds lean protein, making it a slightly lighter and more versatile version that everyone can enjoy. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for a super yummy ready meal!
Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Carbonara
Before we get into the step-by-step process, let’s gather all the ingredients needed to create this Creamy Chicken Carbonara:
- 2 large chicken breasts (boneless and skinless)
- 350g (12 oz) pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine works well)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 large eggs
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
For this recipe, you will also need a bit of pasta water, which helps to create that perfect, creamy texture. The starch in the pasta water binds the sauce, making it silky smooth. Chicken Carbonara Recipe will be easy to whip up in under 30 minutes, so let’s get cooking!
Instructions for Preparing Chicken Carbonara
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it reaches a rolling boil, add the pasta and cook it until it’s al dente, following the instructions on the package. Remember, the pasta will continue to cook slightly in the sauce, so it’s important not to overcook it.
Once the pasta is cooked, reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining it. This starchy water will come in handy later to create the sauce’s perfect consistency. Set the drained pasta aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, you can prepare the chicken. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until the chicken is fully cooked through and golden brown.
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Afterward, slice the chicken into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.
Step 3: Make the Carbonara Sauce
Now comes the fun part: making the creamy sauce. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, salt, and pepper until everything is fully combined. The creamy mixture will form the heart of your Creamy Chicken Carbonara sauce.
Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Sauce
In the same skillet you used to cook the chicken, add the minced garlic and sauté it in the residual oil for about 1 minute or until fragrant. Next, add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss it to coat with the garlic and oil.
Now, slowly pour in the egg and cheese mixture while continuously tossing the pasta. This will ensure that the eggs don’t scramble, but instead form a silky, creamy coating on the pasta. Add a bit of reserved pasta water if you need to adjust the consistency of the sauce—it should be smooth and creamy but not too thick.
Step 5: Add the Chicken
Once the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce, it’s time to add the cooked chicken. Gently toss the chicken into the pasta, making sure it’s evenly distributed throughout the dish.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Your Chicken Carbonara is now ready to be served! Plate the pasta and sprinkle it with additional grated Parmesan cheese. For an extra touch of freshness, you can garnish it with some freshly chopped parsley.
Step 7: Enjoy Your Creamy Pasta Dish
Sit down, relax, and enjoy your super yummy Creamy Chicken Carbonara. It’s the perfect combination of a hearty meal and a comforting Italian classic. Whether you’re having a casual weeknight dinner or serving it for guests, this dish will be a hit every time.
Why This Creamy Chicken Carbonara is a Must-Try
1. Creamy Pasta Dishes Are Always a Crowd Favorite
Who doesn’t love a creamy, indulgent pasta dish? This Creamy Chicken Carbonara Recipe offers all the creamy goodness you crave, without feeling overly rich or heavy. The addition of chicken brings a wonderful protein balance, making it filling yet not overly indulgent.
2. Quick and Easy to Prepare
Unlike many Italian dishes that require hours of preparation, this Chicken Carbonara Recipe is incredibly simple to make and ready in under 30 minutes. It’s the ideal meal for a busy weeknight or when you need a ready meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
3. A Twist on a Classic Italian Dish
Carbonara is a beloved classic, but this Creamy Chicken Carbonara recipe offers a lighter, more versatile version that you can easily make at home. The chicken takes the place of pancetta or bacon, adding lean protein to the dish, making it a little healthier without losing any of the flavor.
4. Super Yummy and Satisfying
The combination of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta creates a dish that’s both super yummy and satisfying. Every bite is a burst of flavor, and the creamy texture will have you coming back for more.
5. Customizable to Your Preferences
One of the best parts of this dish is its flexibility. You can easily customize it by adding vegetables like spinach, peas, or mushrooms. You can also switch out the pasta for a gluten-free version if needed. The recipe can be adapted to suit your preferences while still maintaining its delicious essence.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Carbonara
- Use Fresh Eggs for the Best Texture – The egg and cream mixture is the key to creating that silky smooth texture. Make sure to use fresh eggs to get the best results.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta – Overcooking the pasta can result in a mushy dish. Be sure to cook the pasta until it’s al dente so it maintains its structure when combined with the sauce.
- Reserve Pasta Water – Don’t forget to reserve pasta water before draining! It’s essential for adjusting the consistency of the sauce and helps to create a perfect creamy finish.
- Toss the Pasta Gently – When mixing the egg mixture with the pasta, toss the pasta gently to avoid scrambling the eggs. The heat from the pasta will cook the eggs and create the creamy sauce.
- Add a Little Extra Cheese – If you love cheese (and who doesn’t?), feel free to sprinkle a little extra Parmesan or Pecorino Romano on top for an extra burst of flavor.
Conclusion
If you’re a fan of creamy pasta dishes, this Creamy Chicken Carbonara Recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household. It’s a beautiful, flavorful twist on the classic Italian Carbonara that’s quick, easy, and perfect for busy nights. Whether you’re hosting friends or cooking a comforting meal for yourself, this Chicken Carbonara will always be a hit. Give it a try today, and enjoy a plate of creamy, cheesy, and satisfying pasta that’s as comforting as it is delicious!
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