Creamy Chicken Carbonara Recipe

There's nothing quite as comforting as a bowl of Creamy Chicken Carbonara, with its velvety sauce, tender chicken, and smoky bursts of pancetta. This Italian-inspired dish takes a classic carbonara and adds a rich, creamy twist that’s sure to win over even the pickiest eaters.

I first discovered this variation on a rainy weeknight when I needed a little culinary pick-me-up. The combination of simple ingredients created something extraordinary, and now it’s a go-to recipe in my household. Ready to make your own? Let’s dive in!

Why You'll Love This Creamy Chicken Carbonara

Get ready to fall head over heels for this delectable pasta dish! Whether you're cooking for a crowd or just indulging in a cozy night at home, Creamy Chicken Carbonara has something for everyone.

First, it’s quick and easy. This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen.

Second, it’s family-friendly. The creamy sauce and mild chicken make it an instant hit with kids and adults alike. Even picky eaters won’t be able to resist!

Not to mention, this dish is incredibly versatile. Whether you’re using fresh chicken breasts, leftover rotisserie chicken, or even swapping the protein for shrimp, it adapts beautifully to what you have on hand.

Finally, this recipe is a treat for your senses. From the sizzle of pancetta in the pan to the aroma of garlic wafting through your kitchen, cooking this dish is just as satisfying as eating it.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Creamy Chicken Carbonara lies in its straightforward ingredients, each carefully selected to create a symphony of flavors. Here's what you need and why each component matters:

Pasta
The foundation of this recipe is traditional spaghetti, but feel free to use fettuccine, linguine, or even penne if you prefer. The long, thin strands of spaghetti perfectly coat themselves in the creamy sauce, delivering flavor in every bite.

Chicken
I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe. Thighs are juicier and more forgiving, but breasts work just as well if cooked carefully. For convenience, leftover shredded chicken is also an excellent choice.

Pancetta or Bacon
Crispy, salty pancetta adds a smoky depth of flavor that complements the creamy sauce. If pancetta isn’t available, finely chopped thick-cut bacon makes a great substitute.

Eggs and Cream
Traditional carbonara relies solely on eggs for its creamy consistency, but this recipe includes heavy cream for an extra luscious texture. The cream ensures the sauce remains silky without scrambling the eggs.

Parmesan Cheese
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is a must! It provides a nutty, savory flavor that ties the dish together. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it doesn’t melt as smoothly.

Garlic and Onion
A touch of minced garlic and finely diced onion enhances the flavor without overpowering the dish.

Special Equipment
To make the perfect carbonara, you’ll need a large skillet for sautéing and a mixing bowl to whisk together your egg mixture. A pasta pot with a strainer insert makes cooking and draining spaghetti a breeze.

How To Make This Creamy Chicken Carbonara

Creating this mouthwatering Creamy Chicken Carbonara is simpler than you might think. Let’s walk through the steps:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your spaghetti according to the package instructions. Reserve about a cup of the pasta water before draining – it’s key to achieving the perfect sauce consistency.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then sear them for 4-5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove from the pan and let rest before slicing into strips.

Step 3: Crisp the Pancetta
In the same skillet, add your diced pancetta and cook until crispy, about 3-4 minutes. Remove and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan for extra flavor.

Step 4: Sauté Aromatics
Reduce the heat to medium and add a splash of olive oil if needed. Toss in your minced garlic and diced onion, cooking until fragrant and translucent.

Step 5: Create the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Slowly stream in a bit of the reserved pasta water while whisking to temper the eggs and prevent curdling.

Step 6: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing it with the garlic and onion mixture. Pour the egg mixture over the pasta, stirring constantly to create a creamy sauce. Fold in the sliced chicken, crispy pancetta, and more Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley and extra cheese.

Storage Options

If you happen to have leftovers (a rare occurrence!), Creamy Chicken Carbonara stores well with a few considerations.

• Refrigerator: Store the pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Carbonara doesn’t freeze well due to the cream-based sauce, which can separate upon thawing.

When reheating, use low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of reserved pasta water or cream to revive the sauce's creamy texture.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. Here are a few ways to make it your own:

• Swap the Protein: Try using shrimp, diced turkey, or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
• Lighten It Up: Substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream and use whole wheat pasta for a healthier spin.
• Herbaceous Touch: Add fresh basil or thyme for an extra layer of flavor.
• Cheese Lovers: Experiment with Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese for a sharper bite.
• Heat It Up: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

No matter how you customize this dish, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Happy cooking!

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