Creamy Chicken Carbonara Recipe

There's nothing like the rich and comforting flavor of Creamy Chicken Carbonara to make any mealtime feel extra special. This recipe brings together tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a luscious, velvety sauce that clings to every bite, creating a dish that's as indulgent as it is satisfying.

this Recipe

The first time I made this dish, I was surprised at how quickly it came together without compromising on flavor. Now, it’s a family favorite and a go-to option for weeknights when we’re craving something hearty yet effortless to prepare. Let’s dive in and discover why this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Carbonara

Get ready to add a new favorite to your dinner rotation. This Creamy Chicken Carbonara is everything you want in a comfort food dish—creamy, flavorful, and so simple to make.

First, it’s incredibly quick and easy. With just a few simple steps, this recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.

Next, it’s a meal the whole family will enjoy. From the rich, creamy sauce to the tender chunks of chicken, there’s something for everyone in this dish—even the pickiest eaters won’t be able to resist.

The best part? It uses everyday ingredients you likely already have in your pantry and fridge. There’s no need to hunt down specialty items, so you can whip this up whenever the craving strikes.

Finally, this recipe is versatile. Whether you’re serving it as is, pairing it with a crisp side salad, or adding extra veggies, it’s the kind of dish that adapts beautifully to your preferences.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Creamy Chicken Carbonara lies in its simple ingredients, each chosen to create a balance of flavor and texture. Here's what you’ll need and why it works so well.

Pasta
The base of this dish is your choice of pasta. Spaghetti is classic, but fettuccine or linguine work just as well. Their long, slender shapes are perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce, ensuring every bite is full of flavor.

Chicken
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are ideal for this recipe. They cook quickly and stay juicy, providing a hearty and protein-packed element to the dish. Dice them into small, evenly sized pieces for faster cooking.

Creamy Sauce
The sauce is a simple yet luxurious blend of heavy cream, grated parmesan cheese, and egg yolks. The eggs help create a velvety texture, while the parmesan adds a savory depth that ties everything together. For a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half.

Garlic and Onion
Minced garlic and finely diced onion form the aromatic base of this dish. They’re sautéed in olive oil until golden, infusing the sauce with a rich, savory flavor.

Seasonings
A sprinkle of black pepper and a pinch of salt are all you need to elevate the flavors. You can also add a dash of paprika for a subtle smoky undertone.

No special equipment is required, though a large skillet or sauté pan and a sturdy pot for boiling pasta will make the cooking process seamless.

How To Make This Creamy Chicken Carbonara

Crafting this irresistible Creamy Chicken Carbonara is easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps to bring it all together.

Start by cooking your pasta in a large pot of boiling, salted water. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and cook until just shy of al dente, as it will finish cooking in the sauce later. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

While the pasta cooks, heat a generous drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken pieces in a single layer and let them cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes to develop a golden-brown sear. Flip the chicken and continue cooking until fully done, then transfer to a plate and set aside.

In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed and toss in the minced garlic and diced onion. Sauté until fragrant and softened, about 2-3 minutes. The onions should turn translucent, while the garlic releases its aroma.

Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, whisking gently to combine. Add the parmesan cheese and egg yolks, whisking constantly to prevent curdling. Slowly stream in the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, to achieve your desired sauce consistency.

Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Finally, add the drained pasta, stirring everything together until well combined. Let it cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to cling to the pasta.

Serve hot, garnished with freshly grated parmesan and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Storage Options

Leftovers of Creamy Chicken Carbonara store beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Here’s how to keep it fresh and delicious.

Refrigeration
Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the pasta is completely cooled before sealing the container to prevent condensation.

Freezing
While the dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze portions for up to 2 months. Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, ensuring all air is removed to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating
To reheat, add a splash of water or milk to the pasta before warming it in a skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent the sauce from separating. For frozen portions, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about Creamy Chicken Carbonara is how adaptable it is. Here are a few ways to make it your own.

Add Veggies
For extra nutrition, toss in steamed broccoli florets, peas, or sautéed mushrooms. These additions blend seamlessly into the dish and add a burst of flavor and texture.

Use Different Proteins
Swap the chicken for shrimp or turkey if you’re looking to mix things up. Both cook quickly and pair beautifully with the creamy sauce.

Lighter Version
For a lighter take, replace heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative. You can also reduce the parmesan slightly while maintaining the dish’s richness.

Gluten-Free Option
Simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta. The sauce and chicken are naturally gluten-free, making this an easy adaptation.

Spicy Kick
If you enjoy a hint of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne. This adds a subtle spice that enhances the flavors without overpowering them.

Feel free to experiment and create your perfect version of this dish. With its versatile base, the possibilities are endless!

Print