We’ve all been there: the clock’s ticking, and dinner needs to be on the table, now. If you’re craving a creamy, flavour-packed pasta but don’t want to spend hours cooking, you need a quick and easy solution. That’s where our easy chicken carbonara recipe comes in. With just 25 minutes, you can prepare a meal that’s rich, satisfying, and perfect for any night of the week.
Made with Gingin Beef’s premium grass-fed, free-range chicken, this dish not only tastes amazing but also provides you with healthier, ethically-sourced protein. Let’s dive into the recipe and get your taste buds ready for an unforgettable dinner.
What Makes This Chicken Carbonara So Easy and Delicious?
Chicken carbonara is a classic Italian dish that combines creamy pasta, crispy bacon, and rich flavours into one hearty meal. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, while still delivering a comforting and indulgent dish. Using Gingin Beef’s free-range, grass-fed chicken takes it to the next level, adding a richer flavour and superior texture to the dish.
But why is this version so easy to make?
- Quick prep and cooking: With only 25 minutes, you can enjoy a fresh, home-cooked meal in no time.
- Few ingredients: You don’t need a long list of ingredients to make this carbonara. It’s all about using high-quality staples.
- Simple techniques: The recipe involves basic cooking techniques that anyone can master.
Ingredients for Chicken Carbonara
The best part about this recipe is that it doesn’t require a lot of fancy ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 200g spaghetti or pasta of your choice
- 100g bacon or pancetta, chopped
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for extra creaminess)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
- Olive oil, for cooking
Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken Carbonara
Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, it’s time to make your easy chicken carbonara! Follow these simple steps to create a creamy, mouth-watering pasta in just 25 minutes.
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions (usually 8-10 minutes for spaghetti). Once cooked, drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water. Set it aside for later.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil. Add the chopped bacon or pancetta and cook until it becomes crispy, about 3-5 minutes. Remove the bacon from the pan and set it aside, leaving a little bit of rendered fat in the skillet for the chicken.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
In the same pan, add the diced chicken and season it with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes, or until it is golden brown and cooked through. Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper. If you prefer a creamier carbonara, stir in the heavy cream at this point. This will create the rich, velvety sauce that will coat the pasta.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the chicken and garlic. Toss to combine, then remove the skillet from the heat. Pour the egg and cheese mixture over the pasta, tossing everything together until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy. If the sauce looks too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Step 6: Add Bacon and Garnish
Stir in the crispy bacon or pancetta, and give everything a final toss. Serve the carbonara with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley or basil on top.
Tips for the Perfect Chicken Carbonara
To make your chicken carbonara even more delicious, keep these tips in mind:
- Don’t overcook the eggs: When mixing the eggs into the pasta, make sure the skillet isn’t too hot to prevent scrambling the eggs. You want a silky, creamy texture.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan: The fresh cheese will melt better and provide a smoother, more intense flavour.
- Add vegetables for extra nutrition: Feel free to add spinach, peas, or mushrooms to the dish for added colour and nutrients.
- Don’t skip the pasta water: The reserved pasta water helps bind the sauce to the pasta and ensures it stays creamy.
Can I Make Chicken Carbonara in Advance?
While carbonara is best enjoyed fresh, you can still prepare parts of it in advance to save time later. Cook the chicken, bacon, and pasta ahead of time, then simply combine and heat the components when you’re ready to serve.
How to Store Leftover Carbonara:
- In the fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Reheat gently: When reheating, do so on low heat to prevent the sauce from separating. You can add a splash of cream or milk to rehydrate the sauce.
Ready to Try This Chicken Carbonara Recipe Tonight?
At Gingin Beef, we believe great meals start with quality ingredients. That’s why we offer the finest grass-fed, free-range chicken, perfect for dishes like this easy chicken carbonara recipe. When you choose Gingin Beef, you’re ensuring a meal that’s both delicious and nutritious.
So, are you ready to cook up a storm? Order your Gingin Beef chicken today and experience the difference. For more information, call us at (08) 6186 5450. We guarantee you’ll taste the difference in every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use different types of pasta for chicken carbonara?
Yes! While traditional carbonara uses spaghetti, you can use any type of pasta, such as fettuccine, penne, or even gluten-free options.
Is chicken carbonara a good make-ahead meal?
You can prep the chicken and pasta ahead of time, but it’s best served fresh to keep the sauce creamy. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 1-2 days.
Can I use store-bought bacon for this recipe?
Yes! Feel free to use any bacon or pancetta you have on hand, whether store-bought or homemade.
How can I make chicken carbonara lower in calories?
For a lighter version, use a smaller amount of cream or opt for milk instead. You can also skip the bacon for a healthier twist.
What if I don’t like Parmesan cheese?
If you don’t like Parmesan, try swapping it with another hard cheese like Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano for a similar texture and flavour.