Looking for a comforting, creamy pasta that’s easy to make at home? This chicken carbonara recipe is the perfect choice. Inspired by the traditional Italian carbonara, this version adds juicy chicken for extra protein and flavor. With crispy bacon, Parmesan cheese, and a silky egg-based sauce, it’s a restaurant-quality meal ready in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for family or guests, this dish will become one of your go-to dinner favorites.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make the best chicken carbonara recipe:
- 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti or fettuccine
- 2 large chicken breasts, sliced thinly
- 6 slices bacon or pancetta, chopped
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated is best)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: ¼ cup pasta water (to adjust sauce consistency)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create a creamy and flavorful chicken carbonara recipe:
- Cook the Pasta:
Boil spaghetti in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water before draining. - Prepare the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken slices with salt and pepper, then cook until golden and fully cooked, about 6–8 minutes. Remove and set aside. - Cook the Bacon:
In the same skillet, add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Reduce the heat to low. - Make the Sauce:
In a bowl, whisk together eggs and Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy. - Combine Everything:
Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet with bacon. Remove from heat. Quickly pour in the egg-cheese mixture, stirring constantly to create a silky sauce. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. - Season and Serve:
Season with extra black pepper and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Serve immediately while hot.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Protein | 35 g |
| Carbohydrates | 35 g |
| Fat | 16 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
Tips & Variations
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Fresh Parmesan or Pecorino Romano melts better and adds richer flavor.
- Creamy Upgrade: Stir in a splash of heavy cream if you prefer an extra-rich sauce (though traditional carbonara doesn’t include cream).
- Add Veggies: Try peas, mushrooms, or spinach for added texture and color.
- Low-Carb Option: Substitute spaghetti with zucchini noodles or low-carb pasta alternatives.
- Smoky Flavor: Use smoked bacon or pancetta for a deeper, savory taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your chicken carbonara recipe hot with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad. It pairs wonderfully with white wines like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio. For a complete Italian meal, finish with a light dessert such as tiramisu or panna cotta.
FAQs
1. Can I make chicken carbonara ahead of time?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water to restore the creamy texture.
2. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes! Leftover rotisserie chicken works great — just add it in when combining the pasta and sauce.
3. Is heavy cream necessary?
Traditional carbonara uses eggs and cheese for creaminess, not cream. However, you can add a few tablespoons if you prefer a richer sauce.
4. What type of pasta is best for carbonara?
Spaghetti is classic, but fettuccine, linguine, or bucatini also work beautifully for this chicken carbonara recipe.
Conclusion
This chicken carbonara recipe is a quick and satisfying twist on the Italian classic. With creamy sauce, tender chicken, and crispy bacon, it delivers comfort and flavor in every bite. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it’s sure to impress anyone at your table. Try it once, and it’ll become a staple in your recipe collection.
