Chicken carbonara recipe easy is a creamy, flavorful Italian-inspired dish that combines pasta, chicken, crispy bacon, and a rich sauce made with Parmesan cheese and eggs. It’s a restaurant-quality meal that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or whipping up a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress.
In this blog, we’ll guide you through making an easy Chicken Carbonara, share essential tips for success, and explore delicious variations to customize the dish to your taste.
Why You’ll Love This chicken carbonara recipe easy
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.
- Rich and Creamy: A decadent dish with simple ingredients.
- Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.
- Customizable: Easily adapt to suit your preferences.
Ingredients for the chicken carbonara recipe easy
The Pasta:
- 12 oz spaghetti or fettuccine (or your favorite pasta)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (leftovers or rotisserie chicken work well)
- 6 slices bacon, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
The Sauce:
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for extra creaminess)
- 1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- Salt to taste
Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions for the chicken carbonara recipe easy
1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set the pasta aside.
2: Cook the Bacon and Chicken
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until crispy.
- Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon drippings in the skillet.
- Add the cooked chicken to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
3: Prepare the Sauce
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and heavy cream (if using) until smooth.
4: Combine the Ingredients
- Reduce the heat to low and add the minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the bacon drippings.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and quickly pour in the egg mixture, tossing constantly to coat the pasta. The residual heat will cook the eggs and create a creamy sauce.
- If needed, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time to thin the sauce to your desired consistency.
5: Finish and Serve
- Stir in the crispy bacon and cooked chicken.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for Success the chicken carbonara recipe easy
- Use Room Temperature Eggs: They blend more easily into the sauce.
- Work Quickly: Toss the pasta with the egg mixture while it’s still hot to cook the eggs gently.
- Reserve Pasta Water: This starchy water helps achieve the perfect sauce consistency.
- Avoid Overheating: Don’t place the skillet back on the heat after adding the egg mixture, as this can scramble the eggs.
Variations of the chicken carbonara recipe easy
1. Classic Carbonara
Omit the chicken and stick to the traditional recipe with just bacon (or pancetta) for an authentic experience.
2. Vegetarian Carbonara
Replace the chicken and bacon with sautéed mushrooms and zucchini for a hearty, meat-free version.
3. Spicy Carbonara
Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
4. Seafood Carbonara
Swap the chicken for shrimp or scallops for a luxurious twist.
5. Gluten-Free Carbonara
Use gluten-free pasta and ensure other ingredients are gluten-free.
Serving Suggestions of the chicken carbonara recipe easy
- With Salad: Pair with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
- Garlic Bread: Serve alongside warm, crusty garlic bread.
- Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine, like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, complements the creamy dish.
Storing and Reheating of the chicken carbonara recipe easy
Storing:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
- Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to revive the sauce. Avoid microwaving, as it can cause the eggs to curdle.
Frequently Asked Questions about the chicken carbonara recipe easy
Can I Use Pre-Cooked Bacon?
Yes, pre-cooked bacon can save time, but fresh bacon adds the best flavor.
What Type of Cheese Is Best?
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the most authentic taste. Pecorino Romano is a great alternative.
Can I Make Chicken Carbonara Ahead of Time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the ingredients in advance and assemble them just before serving.
How Do I Prevent the Eggs from Scrambling?
Toss the egg mixture with hot pasta off the heat, and stir quickly to avoid overheating.
Why This chicken carbonara recipe easy Works
This easy Chicken Carbonara recipe simplifies the classic dish without losing its creamy, indulgent charm. The combination of chicken, crispy bacon, and rich sauce creates a comforting and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Conclusion about the chicken carbonara recipe easy
Chicken Carbonara is a delightful fusion of creamy, savory, and satisfying flavors that’s surprisingly simple to make. With a few pantry staples and some quick techniques, you can whip up a dish that tastes like it came straight from an Italian trattoria. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite.
