Before diving into the deliciousness of Easy Chicken Pasta Carbonara, let’s talk about what you can team it up with. A straightforward green salad dressed with light vinaigrette complements the richness of carbonara beautifully.
Alternatively, you might consider serving garlic bread on the side—always a crowd-pleaser! If it’s warm outside, a refreshing glass of iced tea or lemonade will balance the savory notes nicely.
Consider a crisp white wine, too, especially a Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. They enhance the dish without overpowering it. You can also sprinkle some Parmesan on top for a little extra flair.
What is Easy Chicken Pasta Carbonara?
Easy Chicken Pasta Carbonara is a simplified take on the classic Italian dish. Traditionally, carbonara is made with egg, cheese, pancetta, and pepper. In this version, I’ve introduced chicken for added protein and heartiness.
The creamy sauce clings to the pasta, while the chicken and bacon give the dish a savory punch. You’ll find it satisfying, yet not overwhelming. This dish is all about balance, making it an excellent choice for families and busy individuals alike.
What is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?
The first taste of Easy Chicken Pasta Carbonara hits your taste buds with a creamy, garlicky wave. The garlic melds with the richness of the egg and cheese, creating a base that’s both comforting and indulgent.
Add to that the crunch of crispy bacon, bringing a salty sharpness that plays off the creamy sauce. The lemon zest and fresh basil offer hints of brightness.
All these elements work together to create a dish that is not only heartwarming but also layered and complex in flavor.
Why You’ll Love This?
You’ll adore this dish for its speed and simplicity. With only a handful of ingredients, it comes together in less than 30 minutes. The mouthwatering aroma filling your kitchen will have everyone gathering around the table in anticipation.
Plus, whether it’s a family dinner or a small gathering, this dish is versatile enough to fit any occasion. Healthy yet indulgent, rich yet satisfying, Easy Chicken Pasta Carbonara checks all the right boxes.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this creamy delight:
12-14 ounces linguine or spaghetti pasta
4 strips thick-cut bacon, guanciale, or pancetta, diced into 1/2-inch chunks
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into bite-sized pieces
1 teaspoon lemon zest
2 cloves garlic, finely minced or grated
1-2 tablespoons freshly chopped basil leaves
Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Carbonara Sauce
3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese or Pecorino Romano
4 eggs (use 2 yolks and 2 whole eggs)
1/3 cup heavy cream
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Step by Step Instructions
Cooking can feel like a dance, and I’m here to guide you through each move. Let’s get started!
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Save about a cup of the pasta water for later—trust me, it’ll come in handy. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
In a large pan or skillet over medium heat, add the diced bacon. Cook, stirring occasionally, until it’s crispy and golden. This process should take about 5-7 minutes. The aroma is going to be fantastic!
Step 3: Add the Chicken
Once the bacon is crispy, add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the pan. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink and is cooked through. This will take another 5-7 minutes. Add the garlic and lemon zest, stirring well for about a minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
In a bowl, combine the eggs, heavy cream, and grated cheese. Whisk until smooth. Note: This mixture is key to the creaminess of the sauce. Season with salt and black pepper.
Step 5: Toss Everything Together
Reduce the heat to low and add the drained pasta to the chicken and bacon. Slowly pour in the egg mixture, tossing rapidly to coat the pasta evenly.
The residual heat will cook the eggs gently, creating a smooth, creamy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach your preferred consistency.
Step 6: Serve
Remove the pan from heat. Toss in the fresh basil and give it another stir. It’s time to plate your masterpiece! Grab a bowl, scoop in the pasta, and don’t hesitate to shower some extra cheese on top. Enjoy your culinary creation!
Tips & Tricks
Cooking can often feel like a complicated puzzle, but with these handy tips, you’ll become a carbonara pro in no time:
- Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh eggs and good cheese make a significant difference.
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta works best as it will continue to cook slightly when you add it to the sauce.
- Work quickly: Toss the pasta and sauce while the pan is still warm to ensure the sauce clings properly.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste your dish before serving. If it needs a little something, a pinch more salt or pepper can elevate the flavors.
- Save some pasta water: This starchy water helps adjust the sauce’s consistency and adds great flavor.
How Can You Store This Easy Chicken Pasta Carbonara?
Storing leftover Easy Chicken Pasta Carbonara is pretty simple! Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay good for up to three days.
To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to the pasta before microwaving. This helps to revive the creaminess of the sauce.
Ingredient Substitutes
Maybe you’ve checked the pantry and are missing a few items? No worries—here are some alternatives:
- Pasta: If you don’t have linguine or spaghetti, try fettuccine or penne. Same delicious flavors but different shapes!
- Chicken: Leftover rotisserie chicken works great. Just shred it and mix it in at the end for a quick swap.
- Cream: Can’t find heavy cream? Half-and-half is a suitable replacement, although it may yield a slightly lighter sauce.
Conclusion
Easy Chicken Pasta Carbonara offers a delightful blend of flavors that satisfies both hunger and the soul. With its combination of creamy sauce, chicken, and bacon, it stands as a compelling choice for a weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Cooking this dish is not just about the steps; it’s a journey to create comfort food at its finest. I hope this recipe becomes a beloved staple in your kitchen. Now go, ignite that stove, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a delicious experience!
You’ll also like the following recipes!
Easy Chicken Pasta Carbonara Recipe – Recipes From Chef
Description
A busy weeknight, you're worn out from the day, yet you crave something comforting and delicious.
Enter Easy Chicken Pasta Carbonara, your new favorite dish. This recipe unites creamy goodness with tender chicken and crispy bacon. It does so in a straightforward manner, so you won't feel like you just ran a marathon in the kitchen.
I’ve spent years figuring out how to make this dish not only approachable but also truly enjoyable. You deserve meals that excite your palate and fit into your lifestyle without causing chaos in your kitchen.
Ingredients
Carbonara Sauce
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
-
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Save about a cup of the pasta water for later—trust me, it’ll come in handy. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
-
In a large pan or skillet over medium heat, add the diced bacon. Cook, stirring occasionally, until it's crispy and golden. This process should take about 5-7 minutes. The aroma is going to be fantastic!
Step 3: Add the Chicken
-
Once the bacon is crispy, add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the pan. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink and is cooked through. This will take another 5-7 minutes. Add the garlic and lemon zest, stirring well for about a minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
-
In a bowl, combine the eggs, heavy cream, and grated cheese. Whisk until smooth. Note: This mixture is key to the creaminess of the sauce. Season with salt and black pepper.
Step 5: Toss Everything Together
-
Reduce the heat to low and add the drained pasta to the chicken and bacon. Slowly pour in the egg mixture, tossing rapidly to coat the pasta evenly.
The residual heat will cook the eggs gently, creating a smooth, creamy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach your preferred consistency.
Step 6: Serve
-
Remove the pan from heat. Toss in the fresh basil and give it another stir. It’s time to plate your masterpiece! Grab a bowl, scoop in the pasta, and don’t hesitate to shower some extra cheese on top. Enjoy your culinary creation!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 694kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 40.9g63%
- Saturated Fat 14.7g74%
- Cholesterol 1325mg442%
- Sodium 1489mg63%
- Total Carbohydrate 32g11%
- Dietary Fiber 4g16%
- Sugars 14g
- Protein 48g96%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh eggs and good cheese make a significant difference.
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta works best as it will continue to cook slightly when you add it to the sauce.
- Work quickly: Toss the pasta and sauce while the pan is still warm to ensure the sauce clings properly.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste your dish before serving. If it needs a little something, a pinch more salt or pepper can elevate the flavors.
- Save some pasta water: This starchy water helps adjust the sauce’s consistency and adds great flavor.
