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Easy Chicken Pasta Carbonara Recipe

Easy Chicken Pasta Carbonara Recipe - Recipes From Chef

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.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 694
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 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

Method
 

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
  1. 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
  1. 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
  1. 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
  1. 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
  1. 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
  1. 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!

Notes

  • 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.