Picture this: A cozy evening, your kitchen filled with the tantalizing aroma of sizzling pancetta, creamy sauce, and al dente pasta. Chicken Carbonara is not just a dish—it’s an experience.
This rich and creamy pasta recipe, infused with the flavors of juicy chicken, savory pancetta, and a luscious parmesan sauce, is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special gathering.
Inspired by the traditional Italian Carbonara, this version adds a delightful twist with tender chicken, making it a crowd-pleaser your family will adore.
What Is Chicken Carbonara?
Chicken Carbonara is a comforting pasta dish rooted in Italian cuisine. Traditionally, Carbonara features pasta, eggs, cheese, pancetta, and black pepper. This variation introduces chicken, creating a heartier, protein-packed version of the classic recipe.
Did you know the name “Carbonara” comes from “carbonaro,” which means “charcoal burner” in Italian? It’s said the dish was favored by Italian coal workers for its simplicity and rich flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Creamy and Flavorful: The combination of parmesan, egg yolks, and half-and-half creates a velvety, luxurious sauce.
Quick and Easy: Ready in just 45 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Customizable: Swap ingredients to suit dietary needs or preferences.
Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is guaranteed to impress at any dinner table.
Prep 15 minutes | Cook 30 minutes | Total 45 minutes
Ingredients
For the Chicken Carbonara:
- 12 cups water
- 1 tablespoon sea salt
- 8 ounces uncooked bucatini or spaghetti
- 6 ounces pancetta, sliced into ½-inch pieces (or thick-cut bacon)
- 8 ounces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 1 large or 2 small), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups half-and-half (room temperature)
- 4 large egg yolks (room temperature)
- 1 ½ cups freshly grated parmesan (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Optional Serving Suggestions:
- Extra grated fresh parmesan
How to Make Chicken Carbonara
In just 45 minutes, you can transform simple pantry staples into a creamy, dreamy pasta dish. Start by boiling the pasta and crisping up pancetta, then cook the chicken until perfectly juicy.
Create a rich sauce with half-and-half, egg yolks, and parmesan, then combine everything for a meal bursting with flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Fill a large pot with 12 cups of water and bring it to a rolling boil.
- Add 1 tablespoon sea salt and stir. Return to a boil, then add 8 ounces of pasta. Cook until just al dente (reduce package cook time by 1 minute).
- Drain the pasta well and set aside.
- Prepare the Pancetta:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add 6 ounces of pancetta and sauté for 6-8 minutes until crispy.
- Remove the pancetta with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and sear for 1 minute per side until golden brown.
- Cook thoroughly until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. Transfer the chicken to a bowl and set aside.
- Make the Sauce:
- Reduce the skillet heat to low and add 2 cups of half-and-half. Simmer gently until warmed.
- Whisk in 4 room-temperature egg yolks until fully incorporated. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Stir in 1 ½ cups freshly grated parmesan and whisk until smooth. Return to low heat if needed.
- Combine and Serve:
- Add the cooked pasta, pancetta, and chicken back into the skillet. Toss everything together until evenly coated.
- Divide into bowls, top with extra parmesan if desired, and serve immediately.
What to Serve with Chicken Carbonara
Roasted Vegetables: Add a healthy touch with roasted asparagus or Brussels sprouts.
Garlic Bread: Perfect for mopping up that creamy sauce.
Crisp Salad: A simple green salad balances the richness of the dish.
Top Tips for Success
Room-Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the half-and-half, egg yolks, and parmesan are at room temperature to prevent curdling.
Grate Fresh Parmesan: Skip the pre-packaged cheese for optimal flavor and texture.
Drain Pasta Well: Excess water can thin the sauce and affect its consistency.
Extra Creaminess: For a saucier dish, use 5 egg yolks and increase the parmesan to 1 ¾ cups.
Storing and Reheating Instructions
Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave at 50% power to avoid separating the sauce. Add a splash of milk or cream if needed.
Conclusion
Chicken Carbonara is the perfect blend of comfort and elegance, combining creamy textures with bold flavors.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or treating yourself to a weeknight indulgence, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.
Give it a try, and prepare to fall in love with every bite!