Creamy Carbonara with Crispy Chicken and Bacon
A delightful and comforting creamy pasta dish featuring crispy chicken and bacon, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine Fresh pasta is preferred.
Protein
- 3 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs) You can use chicken thighs for more richness.
- 6 oz thick-cut bacon Choose a quality brand for better flavor.
Aromatics
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced Adds depth and aroma.
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy cream Sub in half-and-half for a lighter version.
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese Freshly grated is key for best flavor.
- 1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper For added heat.
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley For garnish.
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti or fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Save 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
Preparing the Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown, then remove and let rest.
Cooking the Bacon and Garlic
- In the same skillet, cook the diced bacon until crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Making the Sauce
- Lower the heat and whisk in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until a creamy sauce forms.
Combining Everything
- Slice the rested chicken and add it to the skillet with the drained pasta. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired creaminess.
- Garnish with black pepper and parsley before serving.
Notes
For best results, don't overcook the pasta or bacon. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
Serving: 1gCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 65gProtein: 40gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 10gSodium: 900mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2g
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