Best-ever Chicken Carbonara Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of Chicken Carbonara to satisfy your comfort food cravings. This creamy, indulgent dish is packed with tender bites of chicken and velvety pasta, all tossed in a rich, cheesy sauce that clings to every noodle. It’s a weeknight wonder that looks and tastes like it came straight out of a high-end restaurant.

this Recipe

I discovered this variation one evening when my pantry was running low, and I needed a quick, yet impressive meal. Since then, it has become a family favorite, requested more times than I can count. Now, let’s dive into what makes this dish truly special.

Why You'll Love This Chicken Carbonara

Get ready to fall head over heels for your new go-to comfort food. This Chicken Carbonara isn’t just delicious – it’s a true game-changer.

First, it’s incredibly simple to make. With minimal prep and one skillet required for the sauce, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something filling and satisfying on the table, fast.

The flavors are just irresistible. Think creamy sauce made from a combination of egg yolks, grated Parmesan, and garlic, coating every strand of pasta and bite of chicken with a silky texture. It's a dish that makes every mouthful a delight.

Not to mention, it’s family-friendly and adaptable. You can easily adjust the seasonings or add in extra vegetables, and it never fails to impress even the pickiest eaters.

Plus, the ingredients are surprisingly budget-friendly, making it accessible without sacrificing taste. A few pantry staples and some fresh chicken turn into a meal worthy of company.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Chicken Carbonara lies in the simplicity and quality of its ingredients. Each one brings depth and character to the final dish, so let’s break down what you’ll need.

Chicken: I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe. They cook up quickly and remain tender, but you can also use chicken thighs for a slightly richer flavor. Make sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.

Pasta: Classic spaghetti or linguine work best here. Their long, slender shape allows the creamy sauce to coat each strand perfectly. If you have fettuccine or another pasta shape on hand, feel free to use that, but thin spaghetti gives the most authentic texture.

Egg Yolks: The heart of Carbonara sauce is egg yolks. They give the dish its signature creaminess without needing any actual cream. Be sure to use large, fresh eggs and separate the yolks carefully.

Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is essential for that salty, nutty depth of flavor. Skip the pre-grated kind, as it doesn’t melt as well. You’ll need a generous amount to blend with the egg yolks and to sprinkle on top before serving.

Garlic: Minced garlic adds an aromatic kick to the dish. A few cloves go a long way, infusing the chicken and sauce with subtle warmth that elevates the overall flavor.

You’ll also need some olive oil for searing the chicken and black pepper to finish off the dish with a peppery punch. If you want to add a bit more freshness, keep some chopped parsley handy for garnish.

How To Make This Chicken Carbonara

Creating this creamy, dreamy Chicken Carbonara is easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps for a foolproof dinner that’ll have everyone licking their plates clean.

Begin by cooking your pasta in a large pot of generously salted boiling water. The pasta should be cooked until just al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when combined with the sauce later. Reserve about a cup of the pasta water before draining.

While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil and let it get hot. Toss in your bite-sized pieces of chicken, seasoning with salt and pepper. Sauté until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.

In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed, followed by the minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, making sure not to burn it. The aroma of the sizzling garlic will instantly fill your kitchen with deliciousness.

Now, it’s time to prepare the Carbonara sauce. In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, grated Parmesan, and a generous pinch of black pepper. It should form a thick, creamy paste. Slowly add a bit of reserved pasta water, whisking constantly, until the sauce is slightly loosened.

Add the hot, drained pasta and cooked chicken back into the skillet with the garlic. Remove the skillet from the heat to ensure the eggs don’t scramble. Quickly pour the egg and Parmesan mixture over the pasta, tossing everything vigorously. The residual heat from the pasta will cook the egg yolks and form a creamy, luscious sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add more pasta water, a little at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.

Serve immediately, with extra Parmesan and freshly ground black pepper on top. A sprinkle of chopped parsley brightens the dish and adds a pop of color.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (a rare occurrence, I promise), this Chicken Carbonara keeps well for a couple of days. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

When reheating, use a skillet over low heat and add a splash of water or chicken broth to help loosen the sauce as it warms. Stir continuously to prevent the sauce from separating. Microwaving can be tricky, as the eggs in the sauce might overcook, so the stovetop method is your best bet.

Freezing isn’t recommended, as the texture of the egg-based sauce can become grainy once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a day or two.

Variations and Substitutions

This Chicken Carbonara is wonderfully versatile, so feel free to get creative with it.

Add a splash of cream if you prefer an even richer sauce. While it’s not traditional, it makes the dish extra indulgent and comforting, especially on a cold night.

For a veggie-loaded version, toss in some sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or peas. The vegetables add color and a nice contrast to the creamy sauce.

Want a spicier kick? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic in the skillet. It’ll give the dish a subtle heat that complements the creamy elements beautifully.

You can also experiment with different cheeses. While Parmesan is classic, a bit of Pecorino Romano adds a sharper, saltier flavor if you have some on hand.

No matter how you customize it, this Chicken Carbonara is a crowd-pleaser that invites endless experimentation. Enjoy every last bite!

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