Best-Ever Chicken Carbonara Recipe – When you’re craving something rich, creamy, and comforting, Chicken Carbonara is the answer! This version amps up the protein with sautéed chicken breasts, making it a quick and satisfying weeknight meal. If you don’t have fettuccine on hand, no worries—substitute with spaghetti, bucatini, linguine, or capellini for a perfectly delicious dish every time. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s an easy meal that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients:
- 12 oz fettuccine (or your favorite pasta)
- 4 slices bacon
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 large eggs, beaten
- ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan, plus extra for garnish
- ⅓ cup freshly chopped parsley, plus extra for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving ½ cup of pasta water, and return the pasta to the pot. - Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat for about 5 minutes, until crispy. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until fragrant and golden. Transfer the bacon to a bowl and drain half of the rendered fat from the skillet. - Cook the Chicken:
Add the chicken strips to the skillet, increase the heat to medium-high, and season with salt and pepper. Cook, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 10 minutes. - Combine the Bacon and Pasta:
Reduce the heat to low and return the cooked bacon to the skillet with the chicken. Toss everything together, then add the cooked pasta. Toss again until well combined. - Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper. - Finish the Carbonara:
Pour the egg mixture over the pasta and toss gently to coat. Add a few tablespoons of reserved pasta water, one at a time, until the sauce reaches a creamy consistency. Add more pasta water as needed for the perfect texture. - Serve and Garnish:
Garnish with extra Parmesan and parsley, then serve immediately for a comforting, flavorful meal!
Tips:
- Pasta Variations: Don’t have fettuccine? Any long pasta like spaghetti, bucatini, or linguine works great!
- Creaminess: Add pasta water gradually to achieve the perfect creamy sauce.
- Toppings: Garnish with extra bacon, Parmesan, or a sprinkle of black pepper for added flavor.
Enjoy this Best-Ever Chicken Carbonara—it’s quick, hearty, and perfect for any weeknight craving!
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