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Chicken Carbonara Recipe

Creamy Chicken Carbonara Recipe That's Pure Comfort in Every Bite

This Chicken Carbonara Recipe is a hearty dish combining tender chicken and crispy bacon in a creamy sauce, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce
  • 8 slices Bacon Adds savoriness and depth; substitute with turkey bacon for a leaner option.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Provides richness and a glistening finish to the sauce.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Infuses the dish with aromatic flavor; fresh minced garlic yields the best taste.
  • 1 cup Milk Creates a creamy base; use whole milk for richness or substitute with almond milk for a lighter version.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Ensures a luxurious texture; consider half and half for a lighter alternative.
  • 1 cup Chicken Broth Adds savory depth to the sauce; opt for low-sodium varieties to control salt levels.
  • 2 tablespoons Flour Helps thicken the sauce; can be replaced with cornstarch for a gluten-free version.
  • ½ cup Parmesan Shavings Gives a nutty and salty flavor; freshly grated cheese is preferred for optimal flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Parsley Adds a hint of freshness and color; substitute with basil or chives if desired.
For the Chicken
  • 2 pieces Chicken Breasts Main protein source, grilled and sliced for tenderness; consider using thigh meat for more flavor.
For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Bowtie Pasta Base of the dish that holds the sauce; alternatives include spaghetti or fettuccine.
Seasoning
  • to taste Salt Enhances all other flavors; adjust according to personal taste.
  • to taste Pepper Enhances all other flavors; adjust according to personal taste.

Equipment

  • skillet
  • large pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, add diced bacon and cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally until crispy and golden. Remove from the skillet and let drain on paper towels.
  2. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. In the same skillet, add the seasoned chicken and grill over medium heat for 6–8 minutes per side until cooked through. Let rest and slice into thin strips.
  3. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
  4. Sprinkle in flour, whisking it into the garlic and butter mixture to form a roux. Cook for approximately 1–2 minutes.
  5. Gradually whisk in milk, heavy cream, and chicken broth. Continue to whisk until well combined and sauce thickens, about 3–5 minutes.
  6. Incorporate cooked bacon, sliced grilled chicken, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese into the skillet. Stir gently.
  7. Cook bowtie pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of salted water until al dente, roughly 8–10 minutes. Drain pasta, reserving a little pasta water.
  8. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the Chicken Carbonara sauce, tossing gently to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water until desired consistency.
  9. Plate the Chicken Carbonara, garnishing with extra Parmesan and chopped parsley. Serve hot and enjoy.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Ensure your pasta is al dente. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain texture.

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