Chicken Carbonara Recipe: Indulge in This Rich, Silky Pasta Tonight

Are you looking for a comforting, creamy pasta dish perfect for dinner any night of the week? This Chicken Carbonara takes the classic Italian recipe up a notch with tender, juicy chicken and a silky, rich sauce that’ll have you returning for more. Here’s how you make it!

Ingredients:

• For the Pasta:
  • 12 oz spaghetti (or your favorite pasta)
• For the Chicken:
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
• For the Sauce:
  • 2 large egg yolks
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or Pecorino Romano)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional Garnishes:
  • Extra Parmesan cheese
  • Cracked black pepper

Instructions:

1. Cook the Chicken:
   • Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
   • Cook the chicken for about 7-10 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. You want it juicy and perfectly cooked. Once done, set the chicken aside and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.
2. Boil the Pasta:
   • While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your spaghetti and cook it according to the package instructions for about 9-11 minutes, until al dente.
   • Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of pasta water. You’ll need this for your sauce.
3. Make the Creamy Carbonara Sauce:
   • Whisk together the egg yolks, heavy cream, grated Parmesan, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a medium bowl. This is the heart of the dish—rich, creamy, and oh-so comforting.
4. Bring It All Together:
   • Once your pasta is done, drain it, then immediately toss it into a large mixing bowl (or back into the pot). While the pasta is still hot, pour the egg and cream mixture over it and quickly toss to combine. The heat from the pasta will gently cook the eggs and create a smooth, velvety sauce.
   • Gradually add some of the reserved pasta water to achieve the perfect consistency for your sauce. You want it silky but not runny.
5. Add the Chicken:
   • Add your sliced chicken to the pasta and give it another good toss. This is the magic moment when the creamy sauce coats every strand of pasta and chicken.
6. Garnish and Serve:
   • Plate your Chicken Carbonara and garnish with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan, and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Carbonara:

• Use good-quality cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano makes a massive difference in flavor.
• Avoid scrambling the eggs: Toss the pasta with the egg mixture while it’s still hot but not directly over high heat to avoid cooking the eggs too quickly.
• Pasta water is critical: That starchy water helps thicken the sauce and makes it cling to the pasta better.

Variations to Try:

• Vegetarian Carbonara: Skip the chicken and try sautéed mushrooms or crispy roasted vegetables for a veggie-packed version.
• Spicy Kick: Toss a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
• Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a slightly lighter but still creamy sauce.

What to Serve With Chicken Carbonara:

• Garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser and a fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the pasta.
• A glass of chilled Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio works beautifully with this creamy dish for a wine pairing.

Conclusion:

There’s nothing quite like a bowl of creamy, comforting Chicken Carbonara to satisfy your pasta cravings. With its rich sauce, tender chicken, and a hint of garlic and cheese, this dish will indeed become a family favorite. Grab your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home!