There’s something truly satisfying about sitting down to a warm, creamy bowl of chicken carbonara. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, hosting friends, or treating yourself, this recipe is bound to become a favorite. Chicken carbonara combines the richness of Parmesan cheese, the savory goodness of bacon, and the tender texture of perfectly cooked chicken—all wrapped up in a silky, flavorful sauce. If you’ve never made it before, don’t worry! You’re about to learn everything you need to know to master this classic dish.

Ingredients for Chicken Carbonara

Before you start cooking, make sure you have all the ingredients ready. Here’s a quick reference table to keep everything organized:

Ingredient	Quantity
Kosher salt	1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon, divided
Large eggs	2, at room temperature
Parmesan or Pecorino cheese	1/2 cup freshly grated, plus more for serving
Freshly ground black pepper	1 1/2 teaspoons, divided
Olive oil	2 tablespoons
Bacon, guanciale, or pancetta	5 ounces (150g), cubed
Garlic	2 cloves, thinly sliced
Chicken breast	1 pound, boneless, skinless, trimmed and cut into 1/2-inch pieces
Dry spaghetti	1/2 pound

Why Chicken Carbonara Deserves a Spot on Your Table

Chicken carbonara is a dish that feels luxurious without requiring fancy ingredients or complex techniques. Its creamy texture and bold flavors make it a comforting choice for any occasion. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite additions, like vegetables or alternative proteins.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Boil the Water

Start by bringing a large pot (about 3 quarts) of water to a boil. Add 1 tablespoon of kosher salt to enhance the flavor of your pasta. While you wait for the water to boil, you can prepare the other components of the dish.

2. Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs, 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and 1 teaspoon of ground black pepper. This mixture is the foundation of your carbonara sauce, giving it that creamy consistency.

3. Cook the Bacon and Garlic

Heat a large frying pan over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the cubed bacon. Stir frequently, letting the bacon crisp up and release its fat. This usually takes about 8 minutes.

Add the sliced garlic to the pan, stirring constantly to avoid burning. Let it cook for an additional 2 minutes, then transfer the bacon and garlic to a medium bowl. Leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the pan for cooking the chicken.

4. Sauté the Chicken

In the same pan, add the diced chicken pieces. Season them with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper. Cook the chicken over medium heat, turning occasionally, until it’s golden brown and fully cooked (6–8 minutes). Transfer the chicken to the bowl with the bacon and garlic.

5. Cook the Spaghetti

Once your water reaches a rolling boil, add the spaghetti. Cook it until it’s al dente, which typically means cooking it for 2 minutes less than the time stated on the package.

Before draining the pasta, scoop out 1 cup of the starchy cooking water and set it aside. This water will help emulsify the sauce later.

6. Toss the Carbonara

Return the drained spaghetti to the frying pan (don’t wash it—the residual flavors add depth). Whisk 2 tablespoons of the reserved pasta water into the egg mixture to temper it. Then, pour the egg mixture over the hot pasta.

Use tongs to toss the spaghetti, ensuring it’s evenly coated in the sauce. Gradually add more pasta water, as needed, to create a glossy, creamy consistency. You may end up using the entire cup.

7. Combine the Components

Add the cooked chicken, bacon, and garlic to the pan with the spaghetti. Toss everything together until well combined. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Pro Tips for Success

• Don’t Overheat the Sauce: The key to a creamy sauce is gentle heat. If the pan is too hot, the eggs may scramble instead of forming a smooth sauce.
• Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-grated cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly, so always opt for freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino.
• Work Quickly: The residual heat from the pasta is what cooks the egg mixture into a sauce. Be sure to toss everything together while the pasta is still hot.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve your chicken carbonara immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and freshly ground black pepper. Pair it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a complete Italian experience, consider serving it with garlic bread or a side of bruschetta.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a general breakdown of the nutritional content per serving:

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	600 kcal
Protein	35g
Carbohydrates	40g
Fat	30g

Note: These values may vary depending on the specific brands and measurements used.

FAQs About Chicken Carbonara

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, while spaghetti is traditional, you can use fettuccine, linguine, or even short pasta like penne.

2. What’s the best substitute for bacon?
Turkey bacon, beef bacon, or even vegetarian bacon can be used for dietary preferences or restrictions.

3. How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat leftovers gently in a pan over low heat. Add a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce and prevent it from drying out.

4. Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely! Peas, spinach, or mushrooms make great additions to chicken carbonara.

5. Is there a dairy-free version?
Yes! Substitute the Parmesan with a dairy-free alternative, and ensure your pasta doesn’t contain eggs.

6. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply swap out the spaghetti for your favorite gluten-free pasta.

Conclusion: Your Turn to Shine in the Kitchen

Chicken carbonara is more than just a recipe—it’s a celebration of rich flavors and comforting textures. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this dish offers the perfect balance of simplicity and sophistication. Now that you know the steps, it’s time to gather your ingredients and give it a try. You’ll love the smiles it brings to your table!

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