Creamy Chicken Carbonara Recipe: How To Make The Perfect Dish In Just 10 Minutes!

Carbonara, an iconic Italian pasta dish, has captured the hearts of pasta enthusiasts worldwide with its creamy, savory sauce. While the traditional recipe calls for pancetta or guanciale, we’re introducing a tantalizing twist: creamy chicken carbonara. By incorporating tender chicken into the mix, we’re adding an extra layer of flavor and protein to this beloved dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 pound spaghetti
• 8 ounces heavy cream
• 4 large eggs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Olive oil, for cooking

Step-by-Step Guide to Creamy Chicken Carbonara:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

2. Cook the Spaghetti:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package directions, or until al dente (tender but still firm to the bite).

3. Make the Sauce:

In a large bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, eggs, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.

4. Combine Chicken and Sauce:

When the spaghetti is cooked, drain it and immediately add it to the bowl with the sauce. Toss to coat the pasta.

5. Add the Chicken:

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add it to the pasta mixture. Stir well to combine.

6. Sprinkle with Parsley:

Just before serving, sprinkle the pasta with chopped fresh parsley for a vibrant touch of color and flavor.

7. Serve and Enjoy:

Serve the creamy chicken carbonara immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

Tips for Perfect Creamy Chicken Carbonara:

• Use high-quality ingredients, especially the eggs and Parmesan cheese.
• Don’t overcook the chicken, or it will become tough.
• If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of pasta water to thin it out.
• Serve the pasta immediately while it’s hot and creamy.

Variations and Substitutions:

• For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and add more vegetables, such as sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers.
• Use any type of pasta you like, such as penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine.
• If you don’t have heavy cream, you can substitute milk or half-and-half.
• Add a touch of nutmeg or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.

The Ultimate Comfort Food:

Creamy chicken carbonara is the epitome of comfort food. It’s rich, creamy, and satisfying, with a perfect balance of flavors. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a cozy meal, this dish is sure to impress.

Popular Questions

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken. Simply shred or cut it into bite-sized pieces and add it to the pasta mixture.

2. How do I prevent the eggs from scrambling?

Make sure the pasta is hot when you add it to the sauce. The heat from the pasta will cook the eggs gently and prevent them from scrambling.

3. What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?

You can substitute any type of hard cheese, such as Romano or Asiago.