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Chicken Carbonara Pasta Recipe

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4.7 from 239 reviews

A rich and creamy Chicken Carbonara featuring tender chicken pieces, crispy bacon, and a silky Parmesan egg sauce tossed with perfectly cooked fettuccine. This comforting Italian-American dish combines savory flavors and simple ingredients to create an indulgent pasta meal that’s quick and satisfying.

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 1 lb fettuccine pasta

Chicken and Bacon

  • 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 6 strips bacon, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Sauce

  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Garnish

  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
  • Extra Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve 2 cups of the pasta cooking water. Drain the pasta and set aside.
  2. Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the pan.
  3. Cook the Chicken and Garlic: Season the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper. Add olive oil to the skillet with the bacon fat and increase heat to medium-high. Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. In the last minute of cooking, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Remove the pan from heat.
  4. Prepare the Egg and Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and grated Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  5. Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the hot, drained pasta to the skillet with the cooked chicken. Working quickly, pour the egg and cheese mixture over the pasta while tossing continuously to avoid scrambling the eggs. Gradually add the reserved pasta water a little at a time, tossing constantly, until the sauce becomes creamy and evenly coats the pasta.
  6. Combine Bacon and Adjust Seasoning: Stir in the crispy bacon pieces and toss everything together. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and black pepper if needed.
  7. Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese for an extra flavor boost.

Notes

  • Be sure to toss the pasta continuously when adding the egg mixture to prevent scrambled eggs.
  • Reserve pasta water carefully as it helps to create a smooth and silky sauce.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture.
  • If you prefer, substitute bacon with pancetta for a more authentic Italian taste.
  • Chicken breasts can be substituted with thigh meat for a juicier result.

Find it online: https://mealoria.com/chicken-carbonara-pasta-recipe/