Transform your weeknights: effortless chicken carbonara in minutes – how to make it easy!

Indulge in the creamy richness of chicken carbonara, a classic Italian dish that combines tender chicken, velvety sauce, and al dente pasta. This simplified recipe makes it a breeze to recreate this beloved dish at home, even for culinary novices. Follow these easy steps to master the art of chicken carbonara.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 pound spaghetti or linguine
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Season and Cook the Chicken

• Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
• Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
• Cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
• Transfer the chicken to a plate.

2. Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions, or until al dente (slightly firm to the bite).
• Drain the pasta and reserve 1/2 cup of the cooking water.

3. Prepare the Sauce

• In a large bowl, whisk together the Parmesan cheese, Pecorino Romano cheese, eggs, and heavy cream.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Combine the Ingredients

• Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and stir to coat.
• Add the reserved cooking water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
• Fold in the cooked chicken, parsley, and chives.

5. Serve Immediately

• Serve the chicken carbonara hot, topped with additional grated Parmesan cheese.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Carbonara

• Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
• Don’t overcook the pasta or the chicken, as it will become tough.
• If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little more cooking water or heavy cream.
• Serve the carbonara immediately, as it will thicken as it cools.

Variations

• Add cooked bacon or pancetta for a smoky flavor.
• Use different types of pasta, such as penne or fettuccine.
• Add chopped vegetables, such as peas, broccoli, or zucchini.

The Secret to a Creamy Sauce

The key to a velvety sauce in chicken carbonara is the technique known as “tempering.” Tempering slowly adds the hot pasta to the egg mixture, preventing the eggs from curdling and ensuring a smooth and creamy sauce.

Enjoy the Culinary Masterpiece

Chicken carbonara is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a quick and easy meal or as a special occasion treat. Its creamy richness and savory flavors are sure to impress your family and friends.

Frequently Discussed Topics

Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
A: Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken. Simply shred or cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and add it to the sauce at the end.

Q: Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time. Simply whisk together the eggs, cheese, and cream and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, heat the sauce over low heat until warmed through.

Q: What if I don’t have heavy cream?
A: You can substitute milk or half-and-half for the heavy cream. The sauce will be slightly thinner, but still delicious.