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Chicken Carbonara is a delightful and comforting dish that captures the essence of Italian cuisine while providing a modern twist that many home cooks love to embrace. Originating from the heart of Italy, this creamy pasta dish typically features spaghetti or fettuccine, coated in a luscious sauce made from eggs, cheese, and cured pork. While the classic Carbonara traditionally uses guanciale, the addition of chicken in this recipe makes it a versatile option that is both satisfying and approachable, especially for those who may prefer a lighter protein.

Best-Ever Chicken Carbonara

Indulge in the creamy delight of Best-Ever Chicken Carbonara! This quick and delicious recipe features tender chicken breasts, crispy pancetta, and a rich sauce made from eggs, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it takes only 30 minutes to prepare. Serve it over fettuccine or spaghetti, and don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley and extra cheese for that finishing touch. Your taste buds will thank you!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz fettuccine or spaghetti

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced thin

4 oz pancetta or guanciale, diced

3 large eggs

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup heavy cream

4 cloves garlic, minced

Salt and black pepper, to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Extra Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta:

    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine or spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.

      Prepare the Chicken:

        In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the sliced chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.

          Cook the Pancetta:

            In the same skillet, add the diced pancetta and cook until crispy, about 4-5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

              Make the Sauce:

                In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper.

                  Combine Everything:

                    Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet with pancetta and garlic (off the heat). Add the cooked chicken and pour the egg and cream mixture over the top. Toss everything quickly to combine. If the mixture is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

                      Serve:

                        Plate the chicken carbonara hot, garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.

                          Enjoy your creamy, flavorful Best-Ever Chicken Carbonara!

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