Description:
Chicken Carbonara is a rich and indulgent pasta dish that combines tender chicken with a creamy, egg-based sauce, crispy pancetta, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. The dish is brought to life with a hint of garlic and a generous sprinkle of black pepper, creating a mouthwatering symphony of flavors and textures. This hearty and satisfying meal is perfect for a cozy dinner at home, offering a comforting blend of classic Italian ingredients that are sure to please both family and friends.
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 12 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
- 4 oz pancetta or bacon, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti or fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Cook Pancetta: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the pancetta or bacon until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.
- Cook Chicken: In the same skillet, add the olive oil. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and black pepper. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream until well combined.
- Combine Ingredients: Reduce the skillet heat to low. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Return the cooked pancetta and chicken to the skillet. Add the cooked pasta and toss to combine.
- Add Sauce: Remove the skillet from the heat. Slowly pour the egg mixture over the pasta, tossing quickly to ensure the eggs don’t scramble. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
- Season and Serve: Season with additional salt and black pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Serve immediately with extra grated Parmesan cheese on the side.
Enjoy your Chicken Carbonara with a fresh green salad and crusty bread for a complete and delicious meal!
