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Chicken Carbonara is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dish that has captured the hearts and taste buds of food lovers around the world. Traditionally made with guanciale, Pecorino Romano cheese, and a silky egg sauce, Carbonara is known for its rich, creamy texture and robust flavors. This recipe takes a beloved comfort food and elevates it by incorporating tender chicken, making it a hearty and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings.

Best-Ever Chicken Carbonara

Indulge in the best-ever Chicken Carbonara that brings comfort food to a whole new level! This creamy pasta dish features tender chicken and crispy pancetta, perfectly tossed with fettuccine or spaghetti. With just a few simple ingredients, including eggs and Pecorino Romano cheese, you'll create a luscious sauce that clings to every bite. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s an easy weeknight dinner that everyone will love. Don't forget to garnish with fresh parsley and cracked black pepper for that extra touch!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz fettuccine or spaghetti

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips

Salt and black pepper, to taste

4 oz pancetta or thick-cut bacon, chopped

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 large eggs

1 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Freshly cracked black pepper (for serving)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine or spaghetti until al dente, according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

    Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken strips with salt and black pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

      Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add pancetta or bacon and cook until crispy, about 4-5 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.

        Combine Ingredients: Lower the heat to medium-low. Return the chicken to the skillet and mix with the pancetta and garlic. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine.

          Make the Creamy Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and grated Pecorino Romano cheese until smooth. Slowly pour the egg mixture over the pasta, stirring quickly to create a creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.

            Serve: Plate the Chicken Carbonara, garnishing with chopped fresh parsley and more Pecorino Romano cheese if desired. Finish with freshly cracked black pepper for extra flavor.

              Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4