Luxurious Creamy Chicken Carbonara with Crisp Pancetta

Name: Luxurious Creamy Chicken Carbonara with Crisp Pancetta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 400g spaghetti; 200g pancetta, diced; 2 large chicken breasts, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 large eggs; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup heavy cream; Salt and black pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Rated 5.0 stars by 1 users

Cuisine

Italian

Servings

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time

20 minutes

Calories

850

Chicken Carbonara is a decadent feast, perfect for those who love creamy, comforting flavors paired with the satisfying texture of al dente pasta.

This version takes the classic Italian dish to new heights by incorporating tender slices of chicken and crisp pieces of pancetta, adding a delightful contrast in textures that is both satisfying and mouth-watering.

The sauce, rich with eggs and Parmesan, clings to the spaghetti strands, ensuring that each forkful is as luscious as the last.

What sets this Chicken Carbonara apart is the simplicity of its preparation coupled with the complexity of its flavors. It’s a dish that invites you to savor each bite and appreciate the harmony of creamy sauce and salty pancetta with the subtle, savory undertone of garlic.

Whether it's a quiet dinner at home or a gathering of friends, this recipe promises to be a showstopper, providing a culinary experience that feels both comforting and elevated.

Image of Luxurious Creamy Chicken Carbonara with Crisp Pancetta

Ingredients

400g spaghetti
200g pancetta, diced
2 large chicken breasts, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 large eggs
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup heavy cream
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Directions

Cook spaghetti in a large pot of boiling salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.
In a large skillet, fry the pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove pancetta and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the chicken slices and cook until golden and cooked through. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
In a bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream. Add a pinch of salt and black pepper.
Lower the heat under the skillet and add the cooked spaghetti. Toss to combine.
Pour the egg and cheese mixture into the skillet, stirring quickly until the sauce thickens and coats the spaghetti without scrambling the eggs.
If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.
Stir in the crispy pancetta, then serve garnished with chopped parsley and additional grated Parmesan.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1
per serving: Calories; 850

Amount/Serving % Daily Value

Fat: 48 grams; 62%
Saturated Fat: 23 grams
Cholesterol: 245 milligrams; 82%
Sodium: 975 milligrams; 42%
Carbs: 67 grams; 24%
Protein: 38 grams
Sugar: 3 grams
Fiber: 33 grams; 11%

10 Cooking Tips

Use fresh, high-quality eggs and Parmesan for the best flavor.
Cook pasta until just al dente to keep the texture right.
Reserve pasta water to adjust the consistency of the sauce.
Cook pancetta until it's crispy to add a delightful crunch.
Add garlic at the end of cooking the chicken to prevent burning.
Whisk the egg mixture thoroughly to ensure it's smooth.
Stir the sauce quickly with the pasta to prevent the eggs from scrambling.
Serve immediately while the dish is creamy and smooth.
Use a non-stick skillet to prevent sticking and ensure easy stirring.
Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper just before serving to tailor it to your taste.

Serve it with Suggestions

Enjoy Chicken Carbonara with a side of garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the pasta. For wine enthusiasts, a glass of Chardonnay pairs beautifully, enhancing the creamy texture of the sauce.

FAQ

Q: Can I use bacon instead of pancetta?
A: Yes, bacon can be used as a substitute for pancetta, though the flavor will be slightly different.

Q: Is there a lighter alternative to heavy cream?
A: For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and a tablespoon of flour to thicken the sauce without the heaviness of cream.

Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Absolutely, just use your favorite gluten-free pasta.

Q: What's the best way to reheat Chicken Carbonara?
A: Gently reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a little pasta water to keep the sauce creamy.

Q: Can I add vegetables to this dish?
A: Yes, peas or asparagus make great additions to Chicken Carbonara.

Chef's Recommendation

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Luxurious Creamy Chicken Carbonara with Crisp Pancetta