Unleash Your Inner Chef: How To Make Chicken Carbonara From Olive Garden!

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Olive Garden‘s beloved Chicken Carbonara from the comfort of your own kitchen. With this comprehensive guide, you’ll uncover the secrets to making this creamy, savory dish that will delight your taste buds and impress your dinner guests.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 12 ounces spaghetti
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
• 3 eggs
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Season and Cook Chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until browned on both sides. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.

2. Cook Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package directions.

3. Whisk Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together Parmesan cheese, Pecorino Romano cheese, eggs, and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Return Chicken to Skillet: Add cooked chicken back to the skillet with minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.

5. Drain Spaghetti: Drain spaghetti and add to the skillet with the chicken and garlic.

6. Add Egg Mixture: Pour the whisked egg mixture over the spaghetti and chicken. Stir constantly until sauce thickens and coats the pasta.

7. Season and Garnish: Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Remove from heat and stir in chopped parsley and basil.

Tips for the Perfect Carbonara:

• Use Good Quality Ingredients: Fresh eggs, flavorful cheeses, and aromatic herbs will elevate the dish.
• Don’t Overcook the Eggs: The heat from the pasta will continue to cook the eggs, so remove from heat as soon as the sauce thickens.
• Don’t Add Too Much Cream: The sauce should be creamy but not runny. Add cream gradually to achieve the desired consistency.
• Add Vegetables for Extra Flavor: Sauteed mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini can add color and nutrition to the dish.

Variations:

• Seafood Carbonara: Replace chicken with cooked shrimp or scallops.
• Vegetarian Carbonara: Omit chicken and add grilled vegetables, such as zucchini, peppers, and onions.
• Spicy Carbonara: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a kick of heat.

How to Reheat Chicken Carbonara:

• Microwave: Heat individual portions in the microwave on low power for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

FAQ:

1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw the chicken completely before cooking.

2. What type of pasta can I use instead of spaghetti?
Any type of long pasta, such as linguine, fettuccine, or penne, will work well.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the chicken and pasta separately and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat the chicken and pasta and combine with the egg mixture.

4. How do I avoid scrambled eggs in my carbonara?
Remove the skillet from the heat before adding the egg mixture. Stir constantly until the sauce thickens without overcooking the eggs.

5. Can I substitute bacon for the chicken?
Yes, crispy bacon can be a great addition to carbonara.