There's something magical about a plate of Creamy Chicken Carbonara – the perfect combination of tender pasta, juicy chicken, and a rich, velvety sauce that clings to every bite. The smoky aroma of crispy bacon, the creaminess of Parmesan-infused sauce, and the comforting warmth of a home-cooked meal make this dish an instant classic.

I first discovered this recipe during a chilly weekend when I craved something indulgent yet simple to prepare. One bite in, and it became a household favorite, especially for weeknights when everyone gathers around the table for a cozy, satisfying dinner.
Ready to bring this delicious recipe into your kitchen? Let’s dive in!
Why You'll Love This Creamy Chicken Carbonara
Get ready to experience a pasta dish that ticks all the boxes – it's indulgent, comforting, and surprisingly easy to make. Here's why you'll fall in love with this recipe:
First, it’s a time-saver. This Creamy Chicken Carbonara comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu dinner guests.
It’s a one-pan wonder. While many carbonara recipes require multiple pots and pans, this version keeps things streamlined. Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal.
The recipe is family-friendly and customizable. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or experimenting with flavors, you can easily adjust the ingredients to suit everyone’s taste.
And finally, it’s restaurant-quality without the price tag. With a handful of pantry staples, you’ll create a dish that tastes like it came straight from your favorite Italian bistro.
Let’s talk about what makes this dish so special, starting with the key ingredients.
Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Creamy Chicken Carbonara lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient works together to create a rich, satisfying meal you’ll want to make again and again.
- Pasta: Traditional carbonara uses spaghetti, but I love using fettuccine or penne for this creamy chicken version. The shape catches the sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
- Chicken: For the protein, boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal. They cook quickly and stay tender when diced into bite-sized pieces. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs are a great alternative.
- Bacon: Smoky, crispy bacon adds a savory depth that defines this dish. If you’re feeling adventurous, pancetta is a traditional upgrade that brings a slightly richer flavor.
- Cream and Eggs: The creamy sauce starts with a combination of heavy cream and egg yolks, which blend to create a silky, luxurious texture. Be sure to whisk these together thoroughly to prevent curdling.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is non-negotiable. It melts into the sauce, adding nuttiness and umami that make the flavors pop.
- Garlic and Onion: Finely minced garlic and diced onions lend subtle aromatic notes that balance the richness of the sauce.
No special equipment is needed – just a trusty skillet and a large pot for boiling pasta!
How To Make This Creamy Chicken Carbonara

Making Creamy Chicken Carbonara is easier than you might think. Follow these steps to create a dish that’s bound to impress.
- Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook it until it’s al dente – tender but firm to the bite. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining, as this starchy liquid is key to achieving the perfect sauce consistency. - Sauté the Chicken
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your diced chicken, seasoning it with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pieces are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. - Crisp the Bacon
In the same skillet, add chopped bacon. Cook until it’s crispy and has released its fat, about 5 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon, leaving the drippings behind for added flavor. - Build the Sauce
Reduce the heat to low. Stir in minced garlic and diced onions, cooking until fragrant and translucent. Then, slowly add the reserved pasta water, scraping the bottom of the skillet to deglaze. Whisk together the heavy cream and egg yolks in a bowl, then pour the mixture into the skillet. Stir constantly to prevent curdling. - Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and bacon to the skillet. Toss everything together, ensuring the sauce coats each piece evenly. Sprinkle in freshly grated Parmesan and stir until melted and creamy. - Finish and Serve
Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan for a restaurant-worthy presentation. Serve immediately while hot.
You’ll have a plate of Creamy Chicken Carbonara on the table in under 30 minutes, ready to enjoy!
Storage Options
If you have leftovers (a rare occurrence with this dish!), here’s how to store and reheat them:
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: While the texture may change slightly, you can freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
To reheat, add a splash of cream or milk to the pasta and warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. This helps revive the sauce’s creamy consistency.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are some creative twists to make it your own:
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and bacon, and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers for a hearty vegetarian version.
- Seafood Carbonara: Replace the chicken with shrimp or scallops for a seafood-inspired twist that’s equally decadent.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce for a kick of heat.
- Gluten-Free Alternative: Swap out traditional pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety – just make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold the sauce.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a slightly different flavor profile.
Don’t be afraid to get creative! This recipe is a great starting point for countless delicious variations.
Now that you’re equipped with all the tips and tricks for perfect Creamy Chicken Carbonara, it’s time to tie on your apron and give it a try. Trust me – your taste buds will thank you!
PrintCreamy Chicken Carbonara Recipe
Creamy Chicken Carbonara combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and al dente pasta in a luscious, garlicky Parmesan cream sauce. This Italian-inspired dish is comforting, delicious, and easy to make in under 30 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner, Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 4 slices of bacon, chopped
- 3 egg yolks
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain.
- In a large skillet, cook bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté chicken with salt and pepper until golden and cooked through. Set aside.
- Whisk together egg yolks, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese in a bowl.
- Add garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant. Lower the heat, then stir in the cooked pasta and chicken.
- Gradually pour in the egg mixture, stirring constantly to avoid curdling. Use reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency.
- Mix in crispy bacon, garnish with parsley, and serve immediately.
Notes
- For a more authentic flavor, substitute pancetta for bacon.
- Be careful not to scramble the eggs by keeping the heat low when adding the sauce.
- Add extra Parmesan for a cheesier taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
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