There's nothing quite like the rich, creamy goodness of Chicken Carbonara to bring everyone to the table. The sizzle of crispy bacon, the savory aroma of garlic, and the velvety sauce clinging to every bite of tender pasta—it’s pure comfort food magic.

The first time I made this dish, I was looking for a way to elevate a simple spaghetti dinner. With just a few tweaks, it turned into a masterpiece that now has a permanent place in my meal rotation. Whether you're hosting guests or treating yourself to a weeknight indulgence, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Carbonara
Get ready to discover your new go-to dinner recipe! This Chicken Carbonara is not only mouthwateringly delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up, even on the busiest of nights.
First, it’s a one-pan wonder (plus the pasta pot), which means less cleanup and more time to relax after dinner. The simple, everyday ingredients come together to create a restaurant-quality dish in just about 30 minutes.
Second, the flavors are out of this world. Crispy bacon, juicy chicken, and a sauce made with parmesan, eggs, and cream create a dish that’s indulgent yet balanced. The garlic and fresh parsley add a burst of freshness that ties everything together.
Finally, it’s versatile. You can use your favorite pasta shape, swap out the protein, or even make it a lighter version with a few tweaks. It’s the perfect dish to suit any preference or occasion.
Once you try it, you’ll see why this Chicken Carbonara has become a household favorite. Let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need!
Ingredients Notes

The beauty of Chicken Carbonara lies in its simple, high-quality ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what makes this dish shine:
- Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Slice them into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking. The chicken adds heartiness to the dish and absorbs all the delicious flavors of the sauce.
- Bacon: Thick-cut bacon works best here for that perfect balance of crispy and chewy texture. Pancetta is a great alternative if you want to go the traditional Italian route.
- Pasta: Spaghetti is a classic choice, but fettuccine or penne are also great options. Their shapes hold the sauce beautifully.
- Eggs: The base of the creamy carbonara sauce is made with lightly beaten eggs. When mixed with hot pasta and cheese, they transform into a silky coating without the need for heavy cream.
- Parmesan Cheese: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture. Pre-shredded versions won’t melt as smoothly.
- Garlic and Parsley: These add an aromatic and fresh touch that brightens the dish.
Special equipment: You’ll need a large skillet for cooking the bacon and chicken, plus a mixing bowl to whisk together your sauce. A fine grater is also handy for the Parmesan.
How To Make This Chicken Carbonara

Creating this flavorful Chicken Carbonara is easier than you might think! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have dinner on the table in no time.
- Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta according to package instructions, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water before draining. - Prepare the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and cook your chicken pieces until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside. - Crisp the Bacon
In the same skillet, add your chopped bacon. Cook until crispy, stirring occasionally to ensure even browning. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon, leaving the rendered fat in the pan. - Build the Sauce
Lower the heat to medium and add minced garlic to the bacon fat. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Whisk together the eggs and grated Parmesan in a bowl, then slowly add in the reserved pasta water to temper the eggs. - Combine Everything
Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the garlic-infused bacon fat. Remove the skillet from the heat, then pour in the egg mixture, stirring quickly to create a creamy sauce. Toss in the cooked chicken and crispy bacon. - Finish and Serve
Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and more Parmesan before serving. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
This entire process takes just about 30 minutes, making it the perfect option for a delicious yet speedy dinner!
Storage Options
If you find yourself with leftovers (unlikely as that may be), here’s how to store and reheat your Chicken Carbonara:
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool the pasta completely before sealing it up to maintain the best texture.
- Freezing: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the dish for up to 1 month. Note that the sauce may lose some creaminess upon reheating.
- Reheating: To warm up, add a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen the sauce. Heat gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the sauce from separating.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about Chicken Carbonara is its adaptability. Here are some ideas to make it your own:
- Swap the Protein: Replace chicken with shrimp or leave it out entirely for a vegetarian version.
- Go Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs without compromising on flavor.
- Add Veggies: Toss in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or peas for extra color and nutrients.
- Lighten It Up: Use turkey bacon and skip the cream for a healthier twist.
- Cheese Choices: Try pecorino romano for a sharper, saltier flavor.
No matter how you customize it, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Experiment and find your perfect combination!
This Chicken Carbonara is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of simple, delicious cooking. Whether you’re making it for your family or treating yourself, each bite is a reminder of how satisfying homemade comfort food can be. Bon appétit!
PrintBest Chicken Carbonara Recipe
This easy Chicken Carbonara recipe combines juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and a creamy Parmesan sauce for a delicious and hearty meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts (cut into cubes)
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 4 oz pancetta or bacon (diced)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- ¼ cup heavy cream (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet, cook chicken cubes until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, cook pancetta or bacon until crispy. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- In a bowl, whisk eggs, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream (if using).
- Combine spaghetti, chicken, and bacon in the skillet. Remove from heat and quickly stir in the egg mixture, using reserved pasta water to adjust consistency.
- Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Work quickly when mixing the egg mixture to prevent it from scrambling.
- Substitute heavy cream with milk for a lighter version.
- Add vegetables like peas or mushrooms for extra flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 580mg
Leave a Reply