Chicken Carbonara

Chicken carbonara is beloved because it’s equal parts indulgence and practicality. While fettuccine Alfredo flaunts its buttery, creamy decadence and classic carbonara sticks to minimalist perfection with cured pork, cheese, eggs and pepper, chicken carbonara is the overachiever of the group. It’s hearty enough to be a full meal, thanks to juicy chicken, but it is still indulgent with its rich, cheesy sauce and smoky bacon. This dish is a little bit fancy, a little bit practical and a whole lot of delicious.

Carbonara is one of my signature dishes, but it has taken a little practice. After several failed attempts when learning how to make chicken carbonara—involving scrambled eggs (and some very spicy language)—I discovered the keys to success: patience and timing. Whether you’re a die-hard traditionalist or just want a comforting plate of pasta, this dish is here to win you over. So grab your apron, some pantry staples and a pinch of curiosity—let’s make some pasta dreams come true.

Chicken Carbonara Ingredients

• Spaghetti: This long strand is like the little black dress of pasta shapes—classic, versatile and always in style. If necessary, you can use fettuccine or linguine, but this recipe works best with a long noodle.
• Egg yolks: These golden beauties are the secret to carbonara’s silky sauce. Room temperature is key here, folks. Cold yolks can’t blend properly with hot pasta. Pro tip: Save the egg whites for a fluffy omelet tomorrow morning.
• Parmesan cheese: Parmesan brings umami to the dish. Go for the good stuff—pre-grated cheese from a shaker bottle isn’t the vibe here. If you want to class it up, try Parmigiano-Reggiano.
• Olive oil: A small amount of olive oil helps cook the bacon more evenly and adds more fat (fat = flavor!) to cook the chicken. Choose the best olive oil for flavor and a high smoke point.
• Bacon strips: Chop the bacon into bite-sized pieces so it cooks evenly and fits perfectly on your fork.
• Chicken breasts: The chicken brings extra protein, making this carbonara feel more like a meal and less like an elaborate side dish. Pounding it thin ensures it cooks quickly and evenly.
• Seasonings: Salt and pepper are key to balance out the richness and enhance the flavors.
• Garlic: Garlic’s distinctive zing is essential for any chicken carbonara recipe.