Craving a comforting yet sophisticated dinner that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This Chicken & Bacon Carbonara recipe is the perfect blend of creamy richness and savory goodness. Forget the heavy cream – this version uses simple ingredients to achieve that decadent texture, making it a healthy and delicious weeknight meal. It's one of those easy recipes that always impresses, whether you're feeding the family or having friends over. Get ready for a taste of pure indulgence!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 6 slices bacon, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 1/4 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese (optional, but adds fantastic flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken and Bacon
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced bacon and cook until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pan. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened – about 3-5 minutes.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, Parmesan cheese, Pecorino Romano (if using), and black pepper. This is crucial for achieving that luscious carbonara texture.
Step 4: Combine and Finish
Once the pasta is cooked, add it directly to the skillet with the chicken and bacon. Quickly stir in the egg mixture, tossing constantly to prevent the eggs from scrambling. The residual heat from the pasta will cook the eggs gently, creating a creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Stir in the crispy bacon, season with salt to taste, and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. This delicious dish is best enjoyed hot!
Cooking Tips for the Best Carbonara:
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta is key for the best texture in carbonara.
- Use good quality cheese: Parmesan and Pecorino Romano are essential for the authentic flavor.
- Work quickly: The heat from the pasta cooks the eggs, so work efficiently to prevent scrambling.
- Taste and adjust: Seasoning is crucial. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Carbonara: Omit the chicken and bacon and add sauteed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for a delicious vegetarian version.
- Spicy Carbonara: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Creamy Carbonara (for those who prefer): Add a splash of heavy cream at the end for extra creaminess, but remember that this will slightly alter the nutritional profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This Chicken & Bacon Carbonara is a fantastic example of homemade cooking that's both satisfying and easy to make. Enjoy this quick dinner idea, a truly delicious dish that's perfect for any occasion! It's one of the best recipes for a comforting and flavorful meal.