Go Back
In the world of Italian cuisine, few dishes evoke as much warmth and comfort as Chicken Carbonara. This creamy pasta dish, with its rich flavors and simple preparation, has become a favorite among home cooks and gourmet chefs alike. The very essence of Chicken Carbonara lies in its ability to blend everyday ingredients into a stunning meal that satisfies the palate and warms the heart. Whether you are a busy parent looking for a quick weeknight dinner or someone eager to impress guests with culinary skills, Chicken Carbonara offers the perfect solution.

Best-Ever Chicken Carbonara

Indulge in the rich flavors of this Best-Ever Chicken Carbonara recipe! With perfectly cooked spaghetti, tender chicken, crispy pancetta, and a creamy egg and cheese sauce, this dish is a delightful twist on a classic favorite. It's quick to prepare, taking just 30 minutes from prep to plate, making it a fantastic choice for a weeknight dinner. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor. Enjoy every bite!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

400g spaghetti

2 chicken breasts, diced

150g pancetta or guanciale, chopped

2 large eggs

100g Pecorino Romano cheese, grated

50g Parmesan cheese, grated

3 cloves garlic, minced

Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Salt and freshly cracked black pepper

2 tablespoons olive oil

Optional: 100ml chicken broth for additional moisture

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set aside.

    Prepare the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and keep warm.

      Sauté Pancetta: In the same skillet, add pancetta and sauté until crispy, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant. Remove from heat.

        Make the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, Pecorino Romano, and Parmesan cheese until combined. Add a pinch of salt and a generous amount of black pepper.

          Combine Ingredients: Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with pancetta. Toss to combine, ensuring the pasta is coated in the pancetta fat. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water or chicken broth to create a smooth consistency.

            Add the Egg Mixture: Quickly pour the egg and cheese mixture over the hot pasta while tossing vigorously to create a creamy sauce. The heat from the pasta will cook the eggs gently, forming a luxurious carbonara sauce. Avoid scrambling the eggs!

              Final Touches: Add the cooked chicken back into the pan and mix everything thoroughly. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add more reserved pasta water or chicken broth until the desired creaminess is achieved.

                Serve: Plate the chicken carbonara and sprinkle with additional grated cheese and chopped parsley for garnish. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious dish!

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4