Chicken Carbonara – Creamy Italian Pasta

Chicken Carbonara is a rich and creamy Italian pasta dish made with tender chicken, Parmesan cheese, and a silky egg-based sauce. Quick enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough for guests, this dish is comfort food with Italian flair.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy, indulgent sauce without cream
• Tender chicken paired with perfectly cooked pasta
• Quick and easy weeknight dinner
• Family-friendly, comforting, and filling
• Elegant enough for guests or special occasions

Ingredients

• 12 ounces spaghetti or fettuccine
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then cook until golden and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. In the same skillet, sauté garlic for 1 minute until fragrant. Remove from heat.
4. In a bowl, whisk eggs and Parmesan together.
5. Add hot pasta to the skillet with garlic, then quickly pour egg mixture over pasta, tossing constantly to create a creamy sauce. Add reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired consistency.
6. Stir in cooked chicken and red pepper flakes, if using.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use pancetta or turkey bacon for a classic carbonara twist
• Toss in peas or spinach for added color and nutrition
• Serve immediately for the creamiest texture
• Use Pecorino Romano instead of Parmesan for sharper flavor
• Reserve pasta water carefully to avoid scrambling the eggs

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Best served fresh; store leftovers in airtight container in refrigerator for up to 2 days
• Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of milk or pasta water
• Freezing not recommended due to egg-based sauce
• Add extra Parmesan when reheating to restore creaminess
• Avoid microwaving at high heat to prevent curdling

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve with garlic bread or focaccia
• Pair with a light green salad for balance
• Garnish with extra Parmesan and black pepper
• Sprinkle fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a fresh touch

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use cream in Chicken Carbonara?

Traditional carbonara uses eggs and cheese, but you can add a splash of cream for extra richness if desired.

What cut of chicken works best?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work well for quick cooking and tenderness.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, omit the chicken and add mushrooms or zucchini for a hearty vegetarian option.

How do I prevent the sauce from scrambling?

Remove skillet from heat before adding eggs, and toss constantly. Add pasta water gradually if needed.

Ready to Make It?

This Chicken Carbonara is creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, it’s a dish that will impress everyone at the table. Save this recipe for a quick, indulgent Italian meal at home.

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