Best-ever Chicken Carbonara Recipe

There's nothing quite like the aroma of Chicken Carbonara filling the kitchen – the sizzling bacon, the savory garlic, and the creamy sauce coating perfectly cooked pasta. It's a dish that’s rich, indulgent, and surprisingly easy to whip up for any weeknight dinner.

this Recipe

I discovered this gem while experimenting with classic pasta recipes that the whole family would love, and now, it’s a regular feature on our dinner table. The combination of tender chicken and a luscious, silky sauce always wins rave reviews from everyone around the table, and it's sure to become your go-to pasta recipe too.

Why You'll Love This Chicken Carbonara

Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite weeknight dinner. This Chicken Carbonara isn't just delicious – it's a total crowd-pleaser that will have everyone going back for seconds.

First off, you won't believe how quick and easy it is to make. This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for those busy weeknights when time is tight, but you still crave something special. No need to stand over the stove for hours!

Next, the flavors are off the charts. Between the salty, crisp bacon, the tender chicken, and the rich, cheesy sauce, this pasta feels like an indulgence from your favorite Italian restaurant. It's all made with simple, everyday ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.

And don’t worry – this recipe is totally customizable. Whether you want to add vegetables, swap out the chicken for shrimp, or use gluten-free pasta, there are endless possibilities. It’s also budget-friendly, using affordable pantry staples to create a luxurious meal without the hefty price tag.

Trust me, once you make this Chicken Carbonara, it’ll become a regular in your dinner rotation.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Chicken Carbonara lies in its simple ingredients that come together for a truly unforgettable meal. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why each component is important.

The pasta forms the base of this dish, and classic spaghetti is a favorite. However, you can also use fettuccine or linguine, depending on what you have. The key is to cook it al dente, as the slight chewiness complements the creamy sauce perfectly.

For the chicken, I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They cook up quickly and stay tender, but you can also use chicken thighs if you prefer a richer flavor. Make sure to cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly and are easy to eat.

Bacon is essential in this recipe, as it provides that signature smoky, salty flavor. Pancetta works beautifully too if you have it. Be sure to save the bacon drippings for sautéing the chicken and garlic – they add an extra layer of deliciousness.

The creamy sauce comes together with just a few simple ingredients: egg yolks, grated Parmesan cheese, and a splash of heavy cream. The egg yolks create the luxurious, velvety texture, while the Parmesan brings that nutty, savory flavor. Be sure to use freshly grated cheese for the best results.

You’ll also need garlic to add aromatic depth and a touch of freshness from parsley for a final, vibrant garnish. No fancy equipment needed – just a large pot for the pasta and a skillet for the chicken and sauce.

How To Make This Chicken Carbonara

Creating this mouthwatering Chicken Carbonara is easier than you might think. Let’s break it down step by step so you can confidently whip this up any night of the week.

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cooking your pasta until al dente. While the pasta cooks, you'll prepare the chicken and bacon. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Once cooked, remove it with a slotted spoon and set aside, but don’t discard the bacon grease.

In the same skillet, add your chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Sauté them in the bacon drippings until they're golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. The chicken should be juicy and flavorful from the bacon fat. Once done, transfer the chicken to the same plate as the bacon.

Next, reduce the heat to low and add minced garlic to the skillet. Let it cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. At this point, the pasta should be done – reserve about a cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.

In a bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, grated Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream. Working quickly, add the hot pasta to the skillet, then pour the egg mixture over the top. Toss vigorously to coat the pasta, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a smooth, creamy sauce. The heat from the pasta will cook the egg yolks gently, resulting in a silky texture.

Finally, stir in the cooked chicken and bacon. Toss everything together until well combined, then season with more salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and extra Parmesan, and serve immediately. From start to finish, this dish takes under half an hour, but it tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen!

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which is rare in our house!), storing and reheating this Chicken Carbonara is simple. Transfer any cooled pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat it gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or extra cream to bring the sauce back to life.

Avoid using the microwave if possible, as it can cause the sauce to separate and become grainy. If you must use the microwave, heat it in short bursts and stir well in between.

Freezing Carbonara is not recommended, as the creamy sauce tends to separate and change texture. However, if you plan to meal prep, you can freeze the cooked chicken and bacon separately, then make the sauce fresh when you’re ready to enjoy.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this Chicken Carbonara recipe is its flexibility. You can make it your own with just a few tweaks and additions.

Want to add some veggies? Try stirring in a handful of fresh spinach or peas right before serving. The heat from the pasta will wilt the spinach beautifully, and the peas add a touch of sweetness to balance the rich sauce.

If you’re looking for a seafood twist, swap out the chicken for shrimp. Sauté them in the bacon grease until pink and just cooked through, then proceed with the recipe as written. The briny shrimp pairs wonderfully with the creamy, garlicky sauce.

For a lower-carb option, try using zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash in place of traditional pasta. The sauce clings well to veggie noodles and offers a lighter, healthier version of this classic dish.

Need to make it dairy-free? Substitute the Parmesan with a dairy-free alternative and use full-fat coconut milk instead of heavy cream. The result will be a bit different but still deliciously creamy.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this dish suit your tastes. With a recipe this good, the possibilities are endless – and you can have fun trying new combinations!

Enjoy your flavorful and easy Chicken Carbonara, and don’t forget to share the love with family and friends. It's comfort food at its finest, made simple and irresistible.

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