Chicken & Bacon Pasta Carbonara Recipe
Introduction
Chicken & Bacon Pasta Carbonara is a rich and indulgent dish that combines creamy pasta with savory chicken and crispy bacon. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner at home or to impress guests with a comforting, flavorful meal. Despite its decadent taste, it’s straightforward to make and doesn’t require a lot of time in the kitchen.
Ingredients
To create this delicious Chicken & Bacon Pasta Carbonara, gather the following ingredients:
Essential Ingredients:
- Spaghetti or Fettuccine: 12 ounces
- Chicken Breasts: 2, boneless and skinless, diced
- Bacon: 6 slices, chopped
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Eggs: 4 large
- Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, grated
- Heavy Cream: 1/2 cup
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
- Parsley: Fresh, chopped, for garnish
Optional Additions for Extra Flavor:
- Peas: 1 cup, for added color and sweetness
- Red Pepper Flakes: 1/2 teaspoon, for a bit of heat
- Lemon Zest: 1 teaspoon, for a fresh, citrusy kick
Preparation Steps
Prepping the Chicken and Bacon
- Dice Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
- Chop Bacon: Slice the bacon into small pieces.
Preparing the Sauce
- Whisk Eggs and Cheese: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, grated Parmesan, and heavy cream until well combined. Set aside.
Cooking Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Boil Pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
Cooking the Chicken and Bacon
- Cook Bacon: In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Cook Chicken: In the same skillet, add the diced chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Combining Ingredients
Mixing the Pasta and Sauce
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Return the drained pasta to the pot. Off the heat, quickly pour in the egg mixture, stirring vigorously to create a creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.
Adding the Chicken and Bacon
- Stir in Meat: Add the cooked chicken and bacon to the pasta, tossing to combine evenly.
Finishing Touches
Garnishing the Dish
- Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped parsley and extra grated Parmesan, if desired.
Adjusting Seasonings
- Season: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken & Bacon Pasta Carbonara is a hearty dish that pairs well with various sides and beverages:
- Best Ways to Serve: Serve with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Pairings and Beverages: Pair with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or a light red wine like Chianti. For non-alcoholic options, try sparkling water with lemon.
Health Benefits
While indulgent, this dish can also offer some nutritional benefits:
- Nutritional Information: This dish is high in protein due to the chicken and eggs.
- Benefits of Main Ingredients: Chicken provides lean protein, and eggs add essential vitamins and minerals.
Tips for Perfect Pasta Carbonara
- Ensuring the Best Texture: Make sure to whisk the eggs and cheese well to create a smooth sauce. Add the pasta water gradually to reach the desired consistency.
- Common Mistakes to Avoid: Don’t add the egg mixture while the pasta is still on the heat, as it can cause the eggs to scramble.
Alternative Ingredients
For those with dietary preferences or restrictions:
- Substitutes for Pasta: Use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a lower-carb option.
- Vegetarian and Gluten-Free Options: Replace chicken and bacon with sautéed mushrooms and use gluten-free pasta.
Storing and Reheating
To keep your dish fresh:
- Best Practices for Storing: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- How to Reheat Without Losing Flavor and Texture: Reheat in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, or gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream to maintain the creamy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of pasta? Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, rigatoni, or linguine.
How can I make this dish spicier? Add red pepper flakes to the sauce or top the dish with a drizzle of hot sauce.
Can I add vegetables? Absolutely! Peas, spinach, or broccoli make great additions to this dish.
How long does it last in the refrigerator? The dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze the leftovers? Yes, you can freeze the leftovers. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Conclusion
Chicken & Bacon Pasta Carbonara is a delightful, indulgent dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and crispy bacon, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and versatile enough to adapt to your tastes. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a comforting, delicious meal!
Chicken & Bacon Pasta Carbonara Recipe
Chicken & Bacon Pasta Carbonara is a rich and indulgent dish that combines creamy pasta with savory chicken and crispy bacon. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner at home or to impress guests with a comforting, flavorful meal. Despite its decadent taste, it’s straightforward to make and doesn't require a lot of time in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 100 gms fusilli pasta
- 3 oz frozen peas
- 1 tblsp frozen runner beans
- 1 Diced onion
- 4 rashers back bacon (or 8 rashers of streaky) Chopped
- 360 gms chicken breast fillets
- 1 jar Carbonara Sauce
Instructions
- Cook chopped onion and bacon until onion is soft. I cover with lid. Stirring occassionally.
- Add chopped chicken. Again cover with lid and stir occassionally until chicken cooked through. Remove lid and allow any liquid to evaporate.
- While chicken cooking. Into a pan of boiling water add pasta. Bring to boil, simmer for 5mins. Add frozen peas and beans. Make sure pasta is cooked. Drain.
- Add the carbonara sauce to the chicken pan and stir through on a medium heat. Add the drained pasta and veg, stir through. Ensure hot and serve.