Creamy Chicken Carbonara Recipe

There's something undeniably comforting about the creamy, rich aroma of Chicken Carbonara filling your kitchen. A symphony of crispy bacon, tender chicken, and a luscious sauce coats every strand of pasta, making it an irresistible weeknight staple.

I first discovered this recipe while experimenting with a traditional carbonara. Adding chicken not only made it heartier but turned it into a one-dish dinner that my whole family loves. Ready in under 30 minutes, this creamy, indulgent dish has quickly become a favorite in our rotation.

Why You'll Love This Creamy Chicken Carbonara

Get ready to fall in love with a dish that combines comfort food indulgence with effortless weeknight cooking. This Creamy Chicken Carbonara ticks all the boxes for a winning dinner.

First, it's incredibly quick and easy. Despite its luxurious flavor, this dish comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings when you want something special without the fuss.

The balance of flavors is simply divine. Salty bacon, juicy chicken, and the silky sauce combine to create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen.

Another reason to love this recipe? It's made with simple, pantry-staple ingredients. You likely already have everything you need on hand, saving you a trip to the store.

Finally, this dish is endlessly versatile. Add veggies, swap proteins, or even make it lighter—the possibilities are endless. By the time you're done with your first plate, you'll be dreaming about the next time you’ll make it.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Creamy Chicken Carbonara lies in its perfectly balanced ingredients. Each one plays a role in creating the rich, velvety sauce and satisfying textures.

Spaghetti: The traditional pasta for carbonara, spaghetti's smooth strands hold the creamy sauce beautifully. You can swap it with fettuccine or linguine for a slightly different texture.

Chicken: I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken breasts, as they're easy to cook and slice into tender pieces. Chicken thighs work equally well, adding an extra layer of juiciness.

Bacon: The crispy, salty bacon adds a smoky undertone that defines carbonara. If you prefer, pancetta is a great substitute for a more authentic Italian flavor.

Egg Yolks and Parmesan: These are the foundation of the silky sauce. Use fresh egg yolks and high-quality Parmesan cheese for the best results. Grate your cheese for optimal melting and creaminess.

Heavy Cream: While traditional carbonara doesn't use cream, adding it creates a velvety consistency and ensures the sauce doesn’t scramble during mixing.

Garlic: A touch of freshly minced garlic enhances the overall flavor, giving the dish a subtle depth that complements the creamy sauce.

Equipment-wise, you’ll need a large skillet and mixing bowls. A pair of tongs will help coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.

How To Make This Creamy Chicken Carbonara

Making Creamy Chicken Carbonara is easier than you might think. With a little preparation and these simple steps, you'll have a rich and satisfying meal on your table in no time.

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your spaghetti until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining it.
2. Prepare the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and let rest before slicing into strips.
3. Cook the Bacon: In the same skillet, add your bacon and cook until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate, but keep a tablespoon of the rendered fat in the skillet for flavor.
4. Make the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together egg yolks, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream until smooth. Add a pinch of salt and freshly cracked pepper.
5. Combine Everything: Return the skillet to low heat and add minced garlic, stirring until fragrant. Toss in the cooked pasta, sliced chicken, and crumbled bacon. Slowly pour in the egg mixture, tossing quickly to coat the pasta without scrambling the eggs. If needed, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to thin the sauce.
6. Finish and Serve: Continue tossing until the sauce clings to the pasta, and everything is evenly coated. Sprinkle with extra Parmesan and freshly chopped parsley before serving.

This entire process takes about 25-30 minutes from start to finish, making it an excellent choice for a fast yet indulgent meal.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (though it’s rare!), this Creamy Chicken Carbonara stores beautifully for a quick and satisfying meal later.

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken, but a splash of water or milk will help revive it when reheating.
• Freezer: While carbonara is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.

To reheat, warm it in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a bit of water or cream to help loosen the sauce and restore its silky texture.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to make it your own with a few tweaks.

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and bacon and add sautéed mushrooms, peas, or spinach for a veggie-packed version.
• Lightened-Up Version: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half and use turkey bacon for a lighter dish.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive diners.
• Seafood Twist: Replace chicken with shrimp or scallops for an elegant variation.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced chili to the sauce for a hint of heat.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability—don’t be afraid to experiment and find your favorite variation!

With its creamy texture, savory flavors, and comforting appeal, this Creamy Chicken Carbonara is destined to become a household favorite. Whether you're serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish never fails to impress. Give it a try tonight, and watch it disappear from plates faster than you can say "carbonara!"

Print