The rich and velvety sauce, the tender chicken, the perfect blend of creamy and savory – it’s no wonder that chicken carbonara has become a beloved dish around the world. And yet, despite its timeless appeal, this Italian classic can sometimes get stuck in a rut, with too many variations relying on the same tired ingredients and cooking methods. But fear not, fellow foodies! We’re here to shake things up with our collection of 18 creamy chicken carbonara recipes that will take your taste buds on a thrilling adventure.
From classic takes on this comfort food favorite to innovative twists that incorporate bold flavors and unexpected textures, we’ve got the perfect recipe for every occasion. Whether you’re in the mood for something quick and easy or something more elaborate and impressive, our chicken carbonara roundup has got you covered.
Classic Chicken Carbonara with Pancetta
Classic Chicken Carbonara with Pancetta: A rich and creamy pasta dish that combines the flavors of Italy’s countryside with the satisfaction of a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 6 slices pancetta, diced
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add chicken to the same skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside with pancetta.
4. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Add cooked spaghetti, pancetta, and chicken to the bowl and toss everything together until well combined.
6. Add reserved pasta water as needed to achieve creamy sauce.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Garlic Chicken Carbonara
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and creamy take on the classic Italian dish. Creamy Garlic Chicken Carbonara is a must-try for anyone looking to add some excitement to their meal routine.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
2. In a separate skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside. Leave any remaining juices in the pan.
4. Add garlic to the pan and sauté for an additional minute.
5. Stir in heavy cream and bring mixture to a simmer.
6. Combine cooked spaghetti, chicken, and cream sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Chicken Carbonara with Red Pepper Flakes
Elevate your pasta game with this bold and spicy twist on the classic Italian dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp red pepper flakes
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Add cooked spaghetti to the cream sauce, tossing to combine. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Combine cooked chicken and pasta mixture. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pot Chicken Carbonara Pasta
A rich and satisfying one-pot pasta dish that combines the flavors of chicken, bacon, eggs, and parmesan cheese. Perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 6 slices of bacon
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. 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. In the same pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside.
3. Add the chicken to the pot and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside with the bacon.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine with any remaining pasta water.
5. Crack in the eggs and whisk together. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the eggs are cooked through.
6. Add the cooked spaghetti, chicken, and bacon back into the pot. Toss everything together until well combined.
7. Season with salt, pepper, and dried basil to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Easy Weeknight Chicken Carbonara
Easy Weeknight Chicken Carbonara: A Quick and Creamy Pasta Dish
This recipe is a twist on the classic Italian dish, replacing bacon with chicken breast for added protein and flavor. With only 30 minutes of cooking time, this meal is perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 8 ounces spaghetti
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken breast and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes per side. Let rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper.
4. In the same skillet used for cooking chicken, add reserved pasta water and whisk in egg mixture until smooth.
5. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss with egg mixture. Combine with sliced chicken and garnish with parsley or basil.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Bacon and Chicken Carbonara Bake
A twist on the classic Italian dish, this bacon and chicken carbonara bake combines rich flavors with ease of preparation. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of heavy cream
– 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz spaghetti
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the same skillet and cook until softened.
5. Add chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through.
6. Combine cooked spaghetti, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix well.
7. Add cooked chicken and bacon mixture to the bowl and mix until combined.
8. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lightened-Up Chicken Carbonara with Greek Yogurt
Lightened-Up Chicken Carbonara with Greek Yogurt: A Creamy Twist on a Classic Italian Dish
This recipe is a healthier take on the rich and creamy classic, using Greek yogurt to add moisture and reduce calories. The result is a dish that’s just as flavorful and satisfying, but with fewer indulgent ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
– Fettuccine noodles or other long pasta of your choice
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add garlic, mushrooms, and olive oil to the skillet. Cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to caramelize, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Whisk together eggs, Greek yogurt, and a pinch of salt. Pour over chicken mixture in the skillet.
5. Stir constantly for about 2 minutes, or until eggs are cooked through and mixture is creamy.
6. Add cooked fettuccine noodles to the skillet and toss with chicken and sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Carbonara Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this creative twist on classic chicken carbonara, packed into jumbo shells and smothered in a rich sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo shells
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 1/2 cup spaghetti carbonara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked chicken, carbonara sauce, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Mix well.
4. Stuff each shell with the chicken mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Drizzle the tops of the shells with additional carbonara sauce (if using).
6. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until shells are heated through and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Slow Cooker Chicken Carbonara
This slow cooker recipe transforms the rich flavors of chicken carbonara into an easy, hands-off meal. With tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup cream
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 cup penne pasta
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)
Instructions:
1. Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Add cream, butter, pasta, mushrooms, garlic, and thyme.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Stir in salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese (if using).
4. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 3-8 hours
Chicken Carbonara Alfredo Fusion
This dish brings together the richness of Alfredo sauce with the simplicity of a carbonara-inspired chicken recipe, resulting in a decadent and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup cooked spaghetti
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Then, whisk in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer and let reduce slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add cooked spaghetti and chicken back into the skillet. Toss everything together until well combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Keto-Friendly Chicken Carbonara with Zoodles
A creamy, low-carb twist on the classic Italian dish, this recipe replaces traditional pasta with zucchini noodles and uses a keto-friendly sauce made with eggs, cream, and Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through.
2. Meanwhile, spiralize the zucchinis into noodles and set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, cream, and Parmesan cheese.
4. Add the cooked chicken to the egg mixture and stir to combine.
5. Add the zucchini noodles to the skillet with butter and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Combine the chicken and egg mixture with the zucchini noodles and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Carbonara
A creamy and flavorful pasta dish that combines the richness of chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and carbonara’s signature sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken pieces with butter until cooked through. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional minute.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt. Temper the eggs by slowly pouring in some of the reserved pasta water while whisking continuously.
4. Combine cooked spaghetti, chicken-sun-dried tomato mixture, and egg sauce. Toss until well combined and creamy.
5. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional sun-dried tomatoes if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Carbonara with Mushrooms and Peas
Elevate the classic Italian dish with the addition of earthy mushrooms and sweet peas, making this recipe a hearty and flavorful twist on a comfort food favorite.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup fresh peas
– 6 eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms in butter until tender; add peas and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
3. Whisk eggs, Parmesan cheese, and flour; season with salt and pepper.
4. Add cooked chicken to the egg mixture and stir to combine.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti, mushroom-pea mixture, and chicken-egg mixture; toss until well coated.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until eggs are set.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Chicken Carbonara Casserole
Elevate a classic Italian dish into a satisfying casserole perfect for family dinners or gatherings. This creamy, cheesy recipe combines the flavors of chicken, pasta, and bacon with a rich carbonara sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, diced
– 2 cups mixed cheese (Cheddar, Parmesan, and Mozzarella)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook spaghetti according to package directions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook chicken and bacon until chicken is browned and cooked through.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, eggs, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine cooked pasta, chicken-bacon mixture, and cream-egg mixture in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Top with mixed cheese; bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Carbonara Pizza with Creamy Sauce
Transform your pizza night into a rich and satisfying experience with this unique recipe that combines the flavors of chicken carbonara with a creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cooked chicken
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Spread the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped cooked chicken on top of the mozzarella cheese.
5. In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, heavy cream, and dried thyme.
6. Brush the creamy mixture evenly over the pizza, making sure to cover all the toppings.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Carbonara Gnocchi Bake
A comforting twist on the classic Italian dish, this recipe combines tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a rich carbonara sauce, all baked to perfection in one delicious casserole.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup cooked gnocchi
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, onion, and garlic until chicken is cooked through.
4. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Combine cooked gnocchi with the chicken mixture.
6. Transfer the casserole to a baking dish and top with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Herb Chicken Carbonara
Lemon Herb Chicken Carbonara: A Twist on the Classic Italian Dish
This recipe combines the rich flavors of chicken carbonara with the brightness of lemon and herbs, creating a unique and delicious twist on the classic.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 8 ounces spaghetti
– 4 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti in boiling salted water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
3. In the same skillet, add garlic, parsley, basil, and lemon juice. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt. Gradually pour in reserved pasta water while whisking until smooth.
5. Add cooked spaghetti to the egg mixture and toss until well coated.
6. Add chicken to the pasta and toss until combined.
7. Serve immediately, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Carbonara Risotto Style
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy chicken carbonara risotto recipe, where tender chicken and flavorful bacon come together with Arborio rice for a rich and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the chicken breast until browned and cooked through, then set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until softened.
4. Add the Arborio rice to the skillet; cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Add the warmed chicken broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
6. Stir in the cooked chicken, crispy bacon, and Parmesan cheese.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Discover 18 mouth-watering chicken carbonara recipes that combine creamy richness with savory flavors. From classic pancetta-based dishes to innovative twists like garlic, red pepper flakes, and Greek yogurt, these recipes will satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick weeknight dinner or a decadent special occasion meal, there’s something for everyone on this list. Get ready to indulge in the creamy goodness of chicken carbonara!
