Creamy Chicken Carbonara

If you’re looking for a quick and tasty dinner, Creamy Chicken Carbonara is a fantastic choice! This dish is rich, creamy, and sure to please everyone at your table. Let’s dive right into how to make it!

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
• 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
• 4 slices of bacon, diced
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
• Extra Parmesan cheese for serving

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling some water in a pot. Cook the spaghetti or fettuccine according to the package instructions. Once the pasta is done, drain it but save about a cup of the pasta water. Set it aside.

2. Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat. Fry until it’s crispy, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the bacon from the skillet and leave the tasty bacon fat in the pan.

3. Cook the Chicken: In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the bacon fat and heat it over medium-high. Season the chicken strips with some salt and pepper. Cook the chicken until it turns golden brown and is cooked all the way through, around 6-7 minutes. Once cooked, take it out of the skillet and set aside.

4. Make the Carbonara Sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Make sure it’s smooth and well mixed.

5. Combine the Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to your skillet with the chicken (make sure you keep any remaining oil or bacon fat). Toss everything to mix well and warm it up. Remove the skillet from the heat, then quickly pour your egg and cream mixture over the pasta. Stir vigorously to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water little by little.

6. Finish the Dish: Stir in the crispy bacon and give it a taste. Adjust with more salt and pepper if necessary. Garnish your delicious dish with fresh parsley and some extra Parmesan cheese.

7. Serve: Enjoy your creamy chicken carbonara warm. Serve immediately with more Parmesan on the side for those who want a little extra cheese!

Tips to Make Creamy Chicken Carbonara

• Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
• Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente, or firm to the bite.
• Whisk the egg mixture quickly and pour it over the pasta off the heat to prevent scrambling the eggs.
• Feel free to add veggies like peas or spinach for extra color and nutrition.

Now you’re all set to make a delightful Creamy Chicken Carbonara! Enjoy!