Creamy Dreamy Chicken Carbonara: A Simple Recipe for the Perfect Pasta Dish
Are you craving a rich, decadent pasta dish that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this creamy chicken carbonara recipe! This classic Italian-inspired dish skips the heavy cream for a lighter, yet equally satisfying, experience. We'll focus on building a creamy sauce using the power of the pasta water and perfectly cooked eggs. Let's get cooking!
What You'll Need: A Simple Chicken Carbonara Grocery List
This recipe is designed for simplicity and ease, using ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
- 1 pound pasta: Spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine all work wonderfully.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cubed into bite-sized pieces.
- 4 large eggs: Room temperature is ideal for a smoother sauce.
- 1 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese: This hard cheese is key for authentic flavor. Parmesan can be substituted, but Pecorino Romano offers a sharper, more complex taste.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds another layer of cheesy goodness.
- 4 cloves garlic: Minced.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: For a fresh, vibrant finish.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the chicken and garlic.
Step-by-Step Instructions: Making Your Dream Chicken Carbonara
This recipe is designed to be straightforward and quick, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cubed chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
- While the garlic is sautéing, cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water before draining. This is crucial for creating the creamy sauce.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Carbonara Sauce
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, Pecorino Romano cheese, and Parmesan cheese until well combined. Slowly drizzle in a few tablespoons of the hot pasta water, whisking constantly to temper the eggs and prevent them from scrambling.
Step 5: Combine Everything
- Add the cooked pasta to the bowl with the egg mixture. Add the cooked chicken and the garlic from the skillet. Toss everything together gently until the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add more pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
- Stir in the chopped fresh parsley. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious, homemade chicken carbonara!
Tips and Variations for the Perfect Chicken Carbonara
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta is essential for a perfect carbonara.
- Use fresh eggs: Room temperature eggs will emulsify better and create a smoother sauce.
- Don't be afraid of the cheese: The cheese is what makes this dish so rich and flavorful.
- Add some spice: A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with sauteed mushrooms or roasted vegetables.
This recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the process and the delicious results! Remember to share your culinary creations using #ChickenCarbonara and tag us!
