When it comes to comforting, indulgent dishes that never go out of style, few can top a rich and creamy chicken carbonara. This beloved Italian-American classic has been a staple on menus and in home kitchens for generations, and for good reason – the combination of tender chicken, crispy bacon or pancetta, and silky pasta in a velvety sauce is a match made in culinary heaven.
In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through 19 delicious variations on the classic recipe, each one showcasing its own unique twist and flavor profile. Whether you’re a traditionalist looking for a tried-and-true approach or an adventurous cook seeking inspiration to try something new, you’ll find it all here.
Classic Chicken Carbonara with Parmesan
A rich and creamy pasta dish that combines the flavors of chicken, bacon, eggs, and parmesan cheese. This classic recipe is quick, easy, and sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 6 slices of pancetta or bacon, diced
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken and pancetta over medium-high heat until chicken is cooked through and pancetta crispy.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Add reserved pasta water to the egg mixture and whisk until smooth.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti, chicken, and pancetta in the skillet. Pour in the egg mixture and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until eggs are cooked through (about 2-3 minutes).
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Chicken Carbonara with Red Pepper Flakes
Elevate the classic Italian dish with a spicy twist using red pepper flakes. This creamy pasta recipe combines juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and a kick of heat from the pepper flakes.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp red pepper flakes
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium-high heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add chicken to the same skillet and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti, chicken mixture, and crispy bacon in a large serving dish. Pour in the egg mixture and toss everything together until well combined.
6. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Chicken Carbonara
A creamy, indulgent twist on the classic Italian dish, this Garlic Butter Chicken Carbonara combines the rich flavors of butter and garlic with tender chicken and eggs.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 4 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the chicken in a skillet with butter until browned and cooked through.
2. In a separate pan, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese over medium heat until smooth.
3. Add garlic to the egg mixture and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
4. Combine cooked chicken with egg mixture and stir until coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pot Chicken Carbonara Pasta
A creamy and indulgent twist on the classic Italian dish, this one-pot recipe combines chicken, pasta, bacon, and eggs for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In the same pot, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from the pot with a slotted spoon and set aside.
3. Add the chicken to the pot and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Crack in the eggs and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes or until the eggs are cooked through.
5. Stir in the heavy cream, cooked bacon, and cooked spaghetti. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Chicken Carbonara
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and creamy Creamy Mushroom Chicken Carbonara recipe, packed with juicy chicken, sautéed mushrooms, and a velvety sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 6 oz spaghetti
– 3 large eggs
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken and mushrooms in butter until cooked through and lightly browned.
3. Whisk eggs in a separate bowl and set aside.
4. Add Parmesan cheese to the pasta and toss with reserved pasta water to create creamy sauce.
5. Add cooked chicken and mushroom mixture to the pasta and toss to combine.
6. Pour whisked eggs over the top and cook, stirring constantly, until eggs are scrambled and coated evenly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bacon and Chicken Carbonara Bake
Elevate your comfort food game with this rich and satisfying bake, featuring crispy bacon, juicy chicken, and a velvety egg sauce. Perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the chicken in a skillet with a little oil until browned, then set aside.
3. In the same skillet, cook the bacon until crispy, then remove from heat.
4. Whisk together eggs, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Combine cooked chicken, cooked bacon, and egg mixture in a baking dish.
6. Sprinkle with grated cheese (if using) and parsley leaves.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Healthy Spinach Chicken Carbonara
This recipe gives the traditional carbonara a nutritious boost by incorporating spinach and lean chicken breast, while still maintaining the rich and creamy flavor. It’s perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 8 oz whole wheat spaghetti
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup low-fat Greek yogurt
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken breast and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing into thin strips.
3. In a separate pan, wilt spinach leaves with a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside.
4. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, Greek yogurt, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Add cooked spaghetti to the egg mixture, tossing until well combined. Add reserved pasta water as needed to achieve creamy consistency.
6. Combine cooked chicken, wilted spinach, and Parmesan cheese (if using) into the spaghetti mixture. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Carbonara
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of carbonara with the sun-kissed taste of sun-dried tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
2. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
3. Add chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through.
4. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional minute.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Toss until creamy.
6. Add cooked chicken mixture to the pasta and toss until well combined.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Herb Chicken Carbonara
Brighten up your pasta game with this refreshing twist on the classic Italian dish. Lemon and herbs add a burst of citrusy flavor to the rich and creamy sauce, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Whisk together lemon juice, parsley, and basil. Pour sauce over cooked spaghetti and toss to combine.
5. Add Parmesan cheese and toss until melted and well combined.
6. Slice cooked chicken into strips and add to pasta. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow Cooker Chicken Carbonara
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, comforting slow cooker recipe that combines chicken, eggs, and spaghetti in a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for a busy day when you need a hearty meal without the fuss.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 4 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine chicken, spaghetti, cherry tomatoes, onion, and garlic.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and eggs. Pour over the chicken mixture.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Cheesy Chicken Carbonara Casserole
Elevate your comfort food game with this creative twist on the classic chicken carbonara! This casserole combines rich, creamy sauce, tender chicken, and gooey cheese for a satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup penne pasta
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package directions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, onion, and garlic until cooked through. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and eggs.
5. Combine cooked pasta, chicken mixture, and cream mixture in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with cheddar and Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Roasted Garlic Chicken Carbonara
Roasted Garlic Chicken Carbonara: A Twist on a Classic Italian Dish
This recipe combines the rich flavors of roasted garlic and chicken with the creamy indulgence of carbonara, making for a truly unforgettable meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 3-4 cloves of garlic, peeled and chopped
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a small bowl, toss together chopped garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
3. Meanwhile, cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, sauté chicken breasts with thyme until cooked through. Slice into strips.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Add roasted garlic and stir well.
6. Combine cooked spaghetti, chicken, and garlic-cream sauce. Toss to coat.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Chicken Carbonara with Fresh Basil
Elevate your pasta game with this classic Italian dish, infused with the brightness of fresh basil and the richness of creamy eggs. This recipe is a perfect blend of flavors and textures that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through. Set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Add the reserved pasta water to the egg mixture and whisk until smooth.
5. Add cooked spaghetti, chicken, and chopped basil to the egg mixture. Toss everything together until well combined.
6. Cook over low heat for 2-3 minutes or until the eggs are cooked through.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Alfredo-Style Chicken Carbonara
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy Alfredo-style chicken carbonara, featuring juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and a rich sauce. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package directions.
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through.
3. Add crumbled bacon, garlic, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir until sauce thickens slightly.
4. Combine cooked spaghetti with chicken mixture; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoked Gouda Chicken Carbonara
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy and rich Smoked Gouda Chicken Carbonara. This recipe combines the smoothness of smoked cheese, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked spaghetti for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup smoked Gouda cheese, grated
– 3 large eggs
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, smoked Gouda cheese, and parsley. Season with salt and black pepper.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti, chicken, and egg mixture in the skillet. Stir until well combined and heated through.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Carbonara with Peas and Carrots
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and creamy chicken carbonara recipe, featuring sweet peas and crunchy carrots. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 cups mixed peas and carrots (fresh or frozen)
– 1 tsp black pepper
– Salt to taste
– Parmesan cheese, shaved (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through. Remove from heat.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the egg mixture, tossing until well coated.
5. Add cooked chicken, peas and carrots, butter, and reserved pasta water to the skillet. Toss until combined.
6. Season with black pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, topped with shaved Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gluten-Free Chicken Carbonara
Savor the rich flavors of Italy with this creamy, gluten-free twist on a classic dish. This recipe combines juicy chicken, tender pasta, and a velvety sauce made from eggs, cream, and Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz gluten-free spaghetti (such as rice-based or quinoa-based)
– 4 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gluten-free spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate pan, cook the chicken over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, cream, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Add cooked spaghetti and chicken to the bowl; toss gently to combine.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spaghetti Squash Chicken Carbonara
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, protein-packed twist on the classic Italian dish. Spaghetti squash replaces traditional noodles, while juicy chicken and rich eggs create a satisfying, comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 large spaghetti squash
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 large eggs
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the squash in half lengthwise and bake for 45 minutes, or until tender.
3. Cook chicken in olive oil until browned and cooked through. Set aside.
4. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Crack eggs into the skillet and stir until just set.
6. Slice cooked squash into strands and add to the egg mixture. Stir to combine.
7. Add chicken, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until well combined.
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Truffle Oil Chicken Carbonara
Elevate your pasta game with this decadent Truffle Oil Chicken Carbonara, where the rich flavors of truffles meet creamy eggs and tender chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp truffle oil
– 4 oz spaghetti
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a skillet, heat truffle oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through (about 5-6 minutes). Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the egg mixture, tossing to combine. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired creaminess.
5. Add chicken to the pasta mixture and toss to coat.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the rich flavors of chicken carbonara with these 19 creamy and comforting recipes! From classic combinations to innovative twists, this collection has something for everyone. Try adding some spice with red pepper flakes, or get creative with garlic butter and mushrooms. For a lighter take, opt for spinach and lemon herb, while cheese lovers will adore the cheesy casseroles. Whether you’re in the mood for a one-pot wonder or a slow cooker meal, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
