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Best-ever Chicken Carbonara Recipe

Best-ever Chicken Carbonara Recipe


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4.9 from 32 reviews

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Creamy Italian classic Chicken Carbonara brings Roman culinary magic to your kitchen with silky pasta and crispy pancetta. Rich parmesan and golden eggs blend perfectly, delivering comfort in each luxurious forkful you’ll savor.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 chicken breasts, diced
  • 6 slices bacon, chopped
  • 12 ounces (340 grams) spaghetti

Dairy and Egg Components:

  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) grated parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) heavy cream

Seasonings and Aromatics:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook spaghetti until al dente, approximately 8-10 minutes. Carefully reserve one cup of starchy pasta water before draining.
  2. Craft a silky sauce by whisking eggs, finely grated parmesan, and rich cream in a separate mixing bowl until thoroughly combined and smooth.
  3. Warm olive oil in a spacious skillet over medium heat, then introduce minced garlic and sauté until aromatic, releasing its fragrant essence.
  4. Add diced chicken to the skillet, cooking until each piece develops a golden-brown exterior and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
  5. Incorporate crispy bacon pieces into the skillet, allowing them to render their smoky flavor and create a robust base for the carbonara.
  6. Reduce heat to low and introduce cooked spaghetti to the skillet, gently tossing to distribute chicken and bacon evenly.
  7. Stream the egg and cheese mixture over the pasta, rapidly stirring to create a luxurious, creamy coating without allowing eggs to scramble.
  8. Gradually introduce reserved pasta water to achieve a velvety, glossy texture, adjusting consistency as needed.
  9. Season generously with freshly cracked black pepper and kosher salt, ensuring balanced flavors throughout the dish.
  10. Finish by sprinkling chopped fresh parsley across the top and serve immediately while piping hot.

Notes

  • Prevent egg scrambling by tempering the mixture gradually with hot pasta, stirring continuously to create smooth, silky sauce.
  • Use room temperature eggs for better sauce integration and smoother texture when combining with hot ingredients.
  • Opt for pancetta instead of bacon for a more authentic Italian carbonara flavor profile, enhancing the traditional recipe’s richness.
  • Consider gluten-free pasta options for those with dietary restrictions, ensuring the dish remains accessible and delicious for everyone.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 665 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 620 mg
  • Fat: 38 g
  • Saturated Fat: 13 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 23 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.3 g
  • Carbohydrates: 44 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 39 g
  • Cholesterol: 195 mg