Best-Ever Chicken Carbonara

Best-Ever Chicken Carbonara

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• Pasta:
  • 12 oz (340g) spaghetti or fettuccine
• Chicken:
  • 2 chicken breasts, sliced thin
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
• Sauce:
  • 4 oz (115g) pancetta or bacon, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup (240ml) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream (optional for extra creaminess)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
   • Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
   • Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
   • Season the chicken slices with salt and pepper.
   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Cook the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. Make the Carbonara Base:
   • In the same skillet, cook the pancetta or bacon over medium heat until crispy.
   • Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, being careful not to burn it.
4. Prepare the Sauce:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream (if using).
5. Combine:
   • Return the drained pasta to the skillet with pancetta and garlic.
   • Turn the heat to low, then pour the egg mixture over the pasta, tossing quickly to coat.
   • Add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, to achieve your desired sauce consistency.
6. Add the Chicken:
   • Slice the cooked chicken into strips and add it to the pasta. Toss everything together.
7. Garnish and Serve:
   • Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
   • Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips:

• To avoid scrambling the eggs, keep the heat low when adding the sauce.
• You can substitute chicken thighs for a juicier option.
• For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or freshly cracked black Pepper.