Chicken Carbonara

Introduction

Indulge in the creamy and savory flavors of Chicken Carbonara, a comforting pasta dish that combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a rich creamy sauce. This recipe is a hearty meal that is sure to satisfy your cravings for a delicious and filling dinner.

Why Make This Recipe

Chicken Carbonara is a perfect choice for a cozy and satisfying meal. It’s easy to prepare, packs a punch of flavor with the combination of chicken, bacon, and Parmesan cheese, and is a crowd-pleaser for both family dinners and special occasions.

How to Make Chicken Carbonara

Ingredients:

• 1 pound spaghetti
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 sweet onion (finely diced)
• 1/2 cup diced bacon
• 6 cloves garlic (minced)
• 4 cups cooked chicken (shredded)
• 3 cups heavy whipping cream
• 1 1/2 cups freshly grated Parmesan
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 8 large egg yolks
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (chopped)
• 1/4 cup fresh Italian parsley leaves (chopped)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper

Garnish:

• Chopped parsley
• Grated Parmesan cheese

Directions:

1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together egg yolks, cream, Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, oregano, basil, and parsley until well combined.
3. Heat olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add diced bacon and cook until crispy, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Add onion and garlic to the pan and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Stir in the cooked chicken and cook for another 4-5 minutes until warm.
6. Reduce heat to low-medium, add the cooked spaghetti to the pan, and pour the cream mixture on top. Toss gently to combine and cook for 4-5 minutes. Avoid overcooking to prevent the eggs from scrambling.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with parsley and grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

How to Serve Chicken Carbonara

Serve Chicken Carbonara hot, garnished with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

How to Store Chicken Carbonara

Store any leftover Chicken Carbonara in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream to revive the sauce.

Tips to Make Chicken Carbonara

• Be cautious not to overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook slightly when combined with the sauce.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and meltability.
• For a lighter version, you can substitute some of the heavy cream with milk.
• Make sure to toss the pasta with the sauce immediately to prevent it from clumping together.

Variation

For a twist on the traditional recipe, you can add sautéed mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or spinach to the Chicken Carbonara for extra flavor and texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken for this recipe? Yes, using pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken can save you time and add extra flavor to the dish.
2. Can I use bacon substitutes like turkey bacon or pancetta? Absolutely, feel free to experiment with different types of bacon substitutes based on your preferences.
3. Can I freeze Chicken Carbonara for later consumption? It is not recommended to freeze Chicken Carbonara as the creamy sauce may separate upon thawing.