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The Best Chicken Carbonara Recipe


  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

This Chicken Carbonara recipe is a creamy, savory Italian-inspired pasta dish featuring tender chicken, crispy pancetta, and a rich Parmesan-egg sauce. Quick, easy, and made without heavy cream, it’s the perfect weeknight dinner!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 4 oz pancetta or bacon, diced
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more for pasta water
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Cook the spaghetti until al dente according to package instructions.
  3. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Egg Mixture

  1. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolk, and Parmesan cheese until smooth.
  2. Set aside for later use.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken and Pancetta

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and black pepper, and cook until golden and fully cooked (about 5-6 minutes). Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add the pancetta (or bacon) and cook until crispy (about 3-4 minutes).
  4. Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for an additional 30 seconds.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients

  1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and reduce the heat to low.
  2. Add the drained pasta and toss to combine.
  3. Remove the pan from heat and slowly pour in the egg mixture, stirring continuously to coat the pasta.
  4. Add reserved pasta water gradually until the sauce reaches a creamy consistency.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and black pepper if needed.
  2. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
  3. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

  • Mushroom Carbonara: Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
  • Spicy Kick: Use more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper.
  • Vegetable Boost: Mix in spinach or peas for added nutrition.
  • Cheese Swap: Try Pecorino Romano instead of Parmesan for a sharper taste.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: italian

Keywords: Chicken Carbonara, creamy pasta, Italian recipe, easy dinner, no cream carbonara.

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