Cook Chicken Carbonara In Just 5 Steps

Chicken Carbonara features a luscious sauce made from eggs, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese, which creates a velvety coating for the pasta. The chicken adds a hearty protein element, making the dish more substantial and satisfying. Garlic infuses the sauce with a fragrant aroma, while optional additions like bacon and peas can enhance the flavor and texture. The result is a comforting, indulgent meal that's both simple to prepare and deliciously satisfying.

Chicken Carbonara is a creamy and savory pasta dish that combines the rich, classic flavors of Carbonara with tender pieces of chicken. Here’s a simple recipe for making it:

1. Ingredients

– 12 oz (340 g) pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or your choice)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
– 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional for extra flavor)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

2. Instructions

Step 1- Cook the Pasta:

– In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2- Cook the Chicken:

– While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
– Season the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper.
– Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3- Prepare the Sauce:

– In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
– Lower the heat to medium-low and add the heavy cream, stirring to combine.
– Simmer for about 2-3 minutes, then whisk in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 4- Combine Ingredients:

– In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and slowly mix in 1/4 cup of the reserved pasta cooking water to temper them.
– Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet with the cream sauce. Toss to combine.
– Remove the skillet from the heat and quickly stir in the egg mixture. The residual heat will cook the eggs and create a creamy sauce. Add more reserved pasta water if needed to reach your desired consistency.
– If using peas or bacon, stir them in now.

Step 5- Finish and Serve:

– Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
– Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
– Serve immediately and enjoy!