Ah, creamy chicken carbonara pasta! It’s one of those dishes that instantly transports me back to cozy family dinners, where the rich aroma of garlic and pancetta would fill the kitchen. I first stumbled upon this recipe during a rainy Saturday afternoon while experimenting with what I had on hand. The moment I tasted it, I knew I had discovered something special. The tender chicken, enveloped in a silky, creamy sauce, combined with the al dente spaghetti creates an indulgent experience that simply sings comfort food. Trust me, once you try this creamy chicken carbonara pasta recipe, it’ll quickly earn a spot in your regular rotation. You’ll love how simple yet luxurious it is, perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a gourmet night in!
Ingredients List
To whip up this creamy chicken carbonara pasta recipe, you’ll need the following fresh ingredients:
- 300g spaghetti – This is the classic choice that holds the sauce beautifully.
- 200g chicken breast, diced – Tender and juicy, it’s the star protein of the dish.
- 100g pancetta, diced – Adds that irresistible salty, savory kick.
- 2 large eggs – They’ll give the sauce its rich creaminess.
- 100ml heavy cream – This is what makes it extra luscious.
- 50g Parmesan cheese, grated – For a nutty, cheesy flavor boost.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – A must for that aromatic base.
- Salt and pepper, to taste – Essential for seasoning.
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish – Adds a pop of color and freshness.
Make sure to have everything prepped and ready to go, as the cooking process moves quickly and you won’t want to miss a beat!
How to Prepare Creamy Chicken Carbonara Pasta Recipe
Preparing this creamy chicken carbonara pasta recipe is an absolute delight! Let’s dive into the steps that will guide you to a sumptuous dish that’s sure to impress. Remember, timing is key, so let’s keep the momentum going!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s bubbling, add the 300g spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Reserve a cup of the pasta water before draining.
- While the pasta is cooking, grab a large skillet and over medium heat, cook the 100g pancetta until it’s crispy. This will take about 4-5 minutes. Remove the pancetta from the skillet, leaving the rendered fat behind.
- Next, in the same skillet, add the 200g diced chicken. Cook for 6-8 minutes until it’s browned and cooked through. Toss in the 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté for an additional minute, letting that fragrant aroma fill your kitchen.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the 2 large eggs, 100ml heavy cream, and 50g grated Parmesan cheese. Season this mixture with a pinch of salt and pepper for flavor.
- Once the pasta is cooked and drained, add it directly into the skillet with the chicken and garlic. Remove the skillet from heat to avoid scrambling the eggs.
- Quickly mix in the egg and cream mixture, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve that dreamy, creamy consistency. Stir in the crispy pancetta, and taste for seasoning adjustments.
- Serve immediately and don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley for a vibrant finish!
And there you have it! Follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way to enjoying a plate of creamy chicken carbonara that feels just like a restaurant experience at home. If things get a little too thick, just add more reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Trust me, you’ve got this!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy sauce that envelops every strand of pasta.
- Quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Uses simple, fresh ingredients that pack a flavor punch.
- Easily customizable to suit your taste preferences.
- Impressive enough for guests yet comforting for a cozy night in.
Tips for Success
To really elevate your creamy chicken carbonara pasta recipe, here are some pro tips that I swear by:
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh pasta can make a world of difference in texture and taste. If you can, give it a try!
- Don’t overcook the eggs: When you mix in the egg mixture, make sure the skillet is off the heat to prevent scrambling. You want that silky sauce, not scrambled eggs!
- Reserve pasta water: The starchy water is your secret weapon for achieving the perfect creamy consistency. Add it gradually until you reach your desired creaminess.
- Experiment with cheeses: While Parmesan is traditional, don’t be afraid to mix in Pecorino Romano or even a bit of smoked cheese for a unique twist.
- Finish with a drizzle of olive oil: A little extra virgin olive oil right before serving adds richness and depth of flavor.
Trust me, these tips will take your carbonara from good to absolutely fantastic!
Variations
One of the best things about this creamy chicken carbonara pasta recipe is its versatility! You can easily switch up the proteins based on what you have on hand or your personal preference. For a twist, try using shrimp or scallops instead of chicken; they’ll add a delightful seafood flair! If you’re looking for a heartier option, diced turkey or even sautéed mushrooms can work wonderfully.
When it comes to cheese, while Parmesan is classic, don’t shy away from experimenting. A sharp Pecorino Romano gives a saltier punch, while a creamy goat cheese can add a tangy depth. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can brighten up the dish beautifully—just sprinkle them in right before serving for an aromatic finish. Each variation offers a unique touch, elevating your carbonara experience every time!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you happen to have leftovers of this creamy chicken carbonara pasta recipe (which is a rarity in my house!), you’ll want to store them properly to maintain that delicious flavor and creamy texture. Let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, I recommend reheating them gently. You can do this in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or extra cream to help bring back that creamy consistency. Stir frequently to avoid any sticking or scorching. If you prefer the microwave, use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in short intervals, stirring in between. Just be careful not to overheat; you want it warm, not cooked again!
Nutritional Information
Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional values for each serving of this creamy chicken carbonara pasta recipe. Please note that these values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes:
- Calories: 650
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 70g
- Sugar: 2g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Cholesterol: 200mg
These estimates give you a good idea of what you’re indulging in, but remember to adjust based on any variations you make to the recipe!
FAQ Section
Can I make creamy chicken carbonara pasta without pancetta?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lighter option, feel free to replace pancetta with turkey bacon or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian twist. You’ll still achieve that wonderful savory flavor!
Is it necessary to use heavy cream?
Nope! While heavy cream creates that luxurious texture, you can substitute it with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version. Just keep in mind that the sauce may not be as rich.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw it completely before dicing and cooking. This will ensure even cooking and the best texture in your creamy chicken carbonara pasta.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Simply swap out the spaghetti for gluten-free pasta. There are many great options available that work beautifully in this creamy chicken carbonara pasta recipe!
What can I add for extra flavor?
A dash of nutmeg or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can elevate the dish even more! Don’t hesitate to experiment with herbs like basil or oregano for a fresh twist.
Learn more about the origins of carbonara and its variations!
Print
Creamy Chicken Carbonara Pasta Recipe for a Cozy Night In
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A rich and creamy chicken carbonara pasta dish that combines tender chicken with a smooth sauce.
Ingredients
- 300g spaghetti
- 200g chicken breast, diced
- 100g pancetta, diced
- 2 large eggs
- 100ml heavy cream
- 50g Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water.
- In a large skillet, cook pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, cream, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet with chicken and garlic. Remove from heat.
- Quickly mix in the egg mixture, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve a creamy consistency.
- Stir in pancetta and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
- Use fresh pasta for a more authentic texture.
- Experiment with different types of cheese for variations.
- For a smoky flavor, add smoked paprika or use smoked pancetta.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 70g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 200mg
Keywords: creamy chicken carbonara pasta recipe
