Loaded Chicken Carbonara

Dive Into Decadence with Loaded Chicken Carbonara

Get ready to experience a culinary delight with our Loaded Chicken Carbonara recipe! This Italian-inspired dish is a symphony of flavors, featuring tender chicken, crispy bacon, sweet peas, and a creamy Parmesan sauce. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving a comforting and indulgent meal, Loaded Chicken Carbonara is sure to impress even the most discerning palates. Join us as we embark on a journey to create this irresistible dish that will have you coming back for seconds!

Ingredients

Meat

  • 6 slices Bacon
  • 1 1/2 lbs Chicken breast, skinless boneless halves

Produce

  • 3 cloves Garlic
  • 2 cups Peas, frozen

Refrigerated

  • 3 Eggs, large

Pasta & Grains

  • 1 lb Spaghetti

Baking & Spices

  • 1 tsp Ground black pepper
  • Salt and ground black pepper to taste

Dairy

  • 1 1/2 cups Parmesan cheese, grated

Beer, Wine & Liquor

  • 1/2 cup White wine

Liquids

  • 1 gallon Water

Instructions

Preparing the Ingredients

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for the spaghetti.
  2. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove from the skillet and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Once cooled, crumble or chop the bacon into pieces.
  3. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
  4. Mince the garlic cloves.
  5. Beat the eggs in a bowl and set aside.

Cooking the Chicken and Pasta

  1. In the same skillet used for the bacon, cook the seasoned chicken breasts over medium-high heat until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and let them rest on a cutting board.
  2. Add the spaghetti to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
  3. While the pasta is cooking, slice the cooked chicken into thin strips.

Making the Carbonara Sauce

  1. In a separate large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  2. Deglaze the skillet with white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
  3. Reduce the heat to low and add the cooked spaghetti directly to the skillet with the garlic and wine.
  4. Quickly pour the beaten eggs over the spaghetti and toss to combine, ensuring the eggs coat the pasta evenly.
  5. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and continue tossing until the cheese is melted and forms a creamy sauce.
  6. Stir in the frozen peas and cooked chicken strips until heated through.
  7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serving

  1. Divide the Loaded Chicken Carbonara among serving plates.
  2. Garnish with the crumbled bacon and additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
  3. Serve hot and enjoy the rich and creamy flavors!

Cook Notes and Variations

  • Vegetarian Option: Omit the bacon and chicken for a vegetarian carbonara. Substitute vegetable broth for the chicken broth and add extra vegetables such as mushrooms or cherry tomatoes for added flavor and texture.
  • Seafood Twist: Add cooked shrimp or scallops to the carbonara for a seafood twist. Simply cook the seafood in the skillet before adding the pasta and sauce.
  • Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick. You can also drizzle with chili oil before serving for an extra burst of heat.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions

Keto Loaded Chicken Carbonara

  • Replace the spaghetti with spiralized zucchini or spaghetti squash for a low-carb alternative.
  • Use heavy cream instead of white wine for the sauce, and ensure the Parmesan cheese is grated fresh without any added starches or fillers.

Low-Carb Loaded Chicken Carbonara

  • Follow the keto version adjustments, focusing on minimizing the carb content while still enjoying the creamy and savory flavors of this dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

A: Yes, you can use chicken thighs for a richer flavor. Ensure they are boneless and skinless, and adjust the cooking time as needed.

Q: Can I make Loaded Chicken Carbonara ahead of time?

A: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare some components ahead of time. Cook the bacon, chicken, and pasta in advance, and store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the components and assemble the dish.

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese for the sauce?

A: Traditional carbonara sauce uses Pecorino Romano cheese, but you can substitute it with grated Parmesan cheese or a blend of Parmesan and Asiago cheese for a similar flavor profile.

Indulge in the irresistible flavors of Loaded Chicken Carbonara, a decadent dish that combines creamy pasta, savory chicken, crispy bacon, and sweet peas for a culinary experience like no other. With its rich and satisfying taste, this recipe is sure to become a favorite for family dinners, special occasions, or anytime you’re craving comfort food with a gourmet twist. So gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and treat yourself to a meal that will leave you longing for more. Bon appétit!