If you are craving a dish that brings comfort, indulgence, and that irresistible creamy texture all in one bowl, this Creamy Chicken Carbonara Pasta Recipe will do just that and more. Imagine tender chicken pieces, smoky bacon, and perfectly cooked spaghetti enveloped in a luscious, silky sauce made from eggs, Parmesan, and cream. This dish strikes a perfect balance between rich flavors and satisfying textures, making it a must-try for any pasta lover looking for a homey yet impressive meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, creaminess, and delicious texture. From the salty bacon to the smooth Parmesan, these simple yet essential ingredients come together effortlessly to create something truly special.
- 12 oz spaghetti: The classic pasta base that holds the creamy sauce beautifully and delivers that perfect al dente bite.
- 1 lb chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces: Tender and flavorful protein that makes the dish hearty and satisfying.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Adds a subtle richness and helps cook the chicken to golden perfection.
- 6 slices bacon, diced: Brings smoky, crispy goodness, enhancing overall depth of flavor.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Offers aromatic warmth and a gentle kick that wakes up the palate.
- 2 large eggs: Key to creating the creamy, silky sauce that defines this dish.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor that enriches the sauce.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Provides that luxurious, velvety texture we crave in a creamy carbonara.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasoning to brighten and balance each element.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): A fresh, green touch that lifts the dish visually and flavor-wise.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Carbonara Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Start with a big pot of salted boiling water and cook the spaghetti until it is just al dente—firm but not stiff. This ensures the pasta holds its shape and texture perfectly when tossed with the luscious sauce later. Don’t forget to reserve a cup of the pasta water to tweak the sauce’s consistency at the end!
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and season them generously with salt and black pepper. Cook until they develop a gorgeous golden-brown crust and are cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Then, set them aside to keep warm while you prepare the bacon.
Step 3: Cook the Bacon
Use the same skillet to cook the diced bacon until it’s crispy and full of smoky flavor. This step not only creates a delicious bacon texture but also leaves flavorful fat behind that will elevate every bite of the dish. Remove the bacon and set it aside with the chicken.
Step 4: Sauté Garlic
In the bacon fat left in the pan, add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until it’s fragrant and slightly golden. Garlic adds a wonderful depth and a little kick that perfectly complements the creamy sauce.
Step 5: Make the Sauce
While the garlic cooks, whisk together the eggs, grated Parmesan, and heavy cream in a bowl. This magical combination is what makes your carbonara sauce amazingly creamy and rich, without being too heavy.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Reduce the heat to low and return the cooked chicken and bacon to the skillet. Add the drained spaghetti and gently toss everything together. Pour the egg and cream mixture over the pasta and stir quickly to coat the noodles while the pan’s residual heat cooks the eggs into a silky sauce. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach the perfect creamy consistency.
Step 7: Season and Garnish
Give your pasta a final taste and season with salt and black pepper as needed. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and a bright herbal note that ties the dish together beautifully. Serve immediately to enjoy every silky, flavorful bite!
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Carbonara Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the classic choice, offering a vibrant contrast to the creamy sauce; sprinkle it generously. You can also add a little extra grated Parmesan on top for a cheesy finish. A small crack of freshly ground black pepper just before serving adds a subtle spicy note that complements the dish perfectly.
Side Dishes
This creamy chicken carbonara pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread also works wonders to soak up every last bit of that heavenly sauce. For vegetable lovers, some roasted asparagus or sautéed green beans add color and freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve the pasta in individual shallow bowls, topped with a sprig of fresh herb. Another fun idea is to create a pasta bar with different toppings like extra bacon bits, chili flakes, or shaved Parmesan, allowing guests to customize their plates. Even plating the pasta next to a smooth dollop of mascarpone cream can elevate the dish visually and flavor-wise.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Transfer any leftover creamy chicken carbonara pasta into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The sauce thickens in the fridge, but a quick reheat with a splash of milk or cream will bring back its delectable creaminess.
Freezing
While freezing creamy pasta dishes can be tricky because of the eggs and cream, you can freeze the cooked chicken and bacon separately for up to one month. Then cook fresh pasta and mix them when you’re ready to eat for best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave at medium power to avoid curdling the sauce. Stir frequently and add a little cream or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce and restore its signature silkiness.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this Creamy Chicken Carbonara Pasta Recipe?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional, fettuccine, linguine, or even penne work wonderfully. Just adjust cooking times accordingly and choose a pasta that holds the sauce well.
Is it safe to use raw eggs in the sauce?
The eggs are gently cooked by the heat of the pasta and skillet, creating a creamy, safe sauce. Just make sure you stir quickly and serve immediately to avoid any risk.
Can I substitute the heavy cream for something lighter?
You can try using half-and-half or whole milk to lighten the dish, but the sauce will be less rich and creamy. If you do, add it carefully to maintain the texture.
What can I add to make the recipe more flavorful?
Freshly cracked black pepper is a must, and you can also add a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce or some chili flakes for a little heat. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme add another delicious layer as well.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Simply omit the chicken and bacon and substitute with sautéed mushrooms or smoked tofu. Use veggie bacon or add extra garlic and Parmesan to maintain the flavor richness.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Carbonara Pasta Recipe is one of those dishes that makes weeknights feel a little more special without tons of effort. Its rich textures, smoky bacon, and savory chicken all wrapped in a creamy sauce are bound to become a fast favorite in your kitchen. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will be one you return to again and again.
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Creamy Chicken Carbonara Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Chicken Carbonara recipe is a creamy, comforting pasta dish that combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a luscious Parmesan-egg sauce. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner that feels indulgent yet easy to make.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz spaghetti
Protein
- 1 lb chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 6 slices bacon, diced
Sauce & Aromatics
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and black pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Bacon: Using the same skillet, cook the diced bacon until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the skillet.
- Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the bacon fat and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
- Make the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream until smooth.
- Combine Everything: Reduce the heat to low. Return the cooked chicken and bacon to the skillet, add the drained spaghetti, and toss well to combine.
- Create the Creamy Sauce: Pour the egg mixture over the pasta while stirring quickly to prevent the eggs from scrambling and to create a creamy sauce. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time as needed to achieve your desired sauce consistency.
- Season and Garnish: Taste and season with additional salt and black pepper if needed. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
- Serve Immediately: Plate the pasta hot to enjoy the dish at its best creamy texture.
Notes
- Be sure to stir the egg mixture quickly and off direct high heat to avoid scrambling.
- Reserved pasta water helps loosen up and bind the sauce for creamier texture.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and smoother melting.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days but are best enjoyed fresh.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
