There’s something irresistibly comforting about a bowl of Chicken Carbonara — silky pasta coated in a luscious sauce made from eggs, cheese, and cream, mixed with tender chicken pieces and smoky bits of flavor. Originating from Italian roots, this modern twist with chicken adds protein and heartiness, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or weekend indulgence.
Unlike heavy cream-based pastas, carbonara gets its richness from egg yolks and cheese, creating a naturally creamy texture. The secret lies in timing and temperature blending the sauce with warm pasta, not hot, to achieve that glossy finish without scrambling the eggs.
Prep Time & Cooking Details
| Task | Time |
|---|---|
| Preparation | 10 minutes |
| Cooking | 20 minutes |
| Total Time | 30 minutes |
| Servings | 4 servings |
About the Pan & Cooking Temperature
- Pan Type: Use a large non-stick skillet or stainless-steel sauté pan for even cooking and easy sauce coating.
- Temperature: Cook the chicken on medium heat until golden; reduce to low heat when mixing the sauce to prevent curdling.
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225g) spaghetti or fettuccine
- 2 chicken breasts (cut into bite-size strips)
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup grated Pecorino Romano (optional for sharper flavor)
- 4 strips bacon or turkey bacon (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- ½ cup heavy cream (optional, for creamier version)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta
Bring salted water to a boil, add spaghetti, and cook until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining. - Prepare the chicken
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken strips, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown. Remove and set aside. - Fry the bacon
In the same pan, add chopped bacon and cook until crisp. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. - Make the sauce
In a bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan, and Pecorino cheese. Add a small splash of cream if you prefer extra silkiness. - Combine everything
Reduce heat to low. Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet with bacon. Pour in the egg mixture and toss quickly, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce becomes creamy. - Finish and serve
Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve hot and enjoy that authentic creamy texture without the heaviness of a full cream sauce.
Nutrition Table (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 540 kcal |
| Protein | 34 g |
| Carbohydrates | 42 g |
| Fat | 24 g |
| Saturated Fat | 10 g |
| Cholesterol | 180 mg |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 720 mg |
Serving Tips
- Pair with garlic bread or a crisp Caesar salad for a complete Italian meal.
- Sprinkle red chili flakes or lemon zest for an extra flavor boost.
- Use whole-wheat pasta or zucchini noodles for a lighter, healthier twist.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Carbonara is a dish that perfectly balances richness and comfort. It’s elegant enough for dinner guests yet simple enough for a busy weekday. With just a few ingredients and mindful cooking, you can create a restaurant-style masterpiece right in your kitchen.
Looking for more delicious ideas? Check out our full collection of chicken recipes.
