There’s something deeply comforting about a bowl of creamy pasta. It’s a simple pleasure, a culinary hug that warms you from the inside out. Penne carbonara with chicken elevates this comfort food, offering a balanced and hearty meal perfect for any occasion. Imagine tender chicken nestled amongst perfectly cooked penne, coated in a rich, savory cheese sauce – a truly satisfying experience.
What Is Penne Carbonara with Chicken?
Traditional Carbonara is a Roman pasta dish featuring spaghetti, pancetta, eggs, Pecorino Romano cheese, and black pepper. Our penne carbonara with chicken recipe offers a delicious and accessible twist. We’ve swapped the spaghetti for penne, a tube-shaped pasta that beautifully captures the creamy sauce, and pancetta for chicken, a leaner protein option. This modern Italian pasta dish, also known as a chicken pasta recipe, is a crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Penne Carbonara with Chicken Recipe
We understand the weeknight dinner struggle. Between busy schedules and varying tastes, finding a quick, filling, and family-friendly meal can feel overwhelming. This penne carbonara with chicken recipe is here to simplify your life. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner, yet elegant enough for a special occasion. The chicken provides a healthier alternative to bacon or pancetta, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
Essential Ingredients (And Substitutions)
This recipe calls for a few key ingredients, penne pasta, boneless, skinless chicken breasts, egg yolks, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and freshly ground black pepper. Flexibility is key! Substitute gluten-free penne for dietary needs or use ground turkey instead of chicken. High-quality ingredients enhance the flavor, so opt for the best you can find.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Prep the Chicken: Dice the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and season generously with salt and pepper.
Cook the Pasta: Cook the penne according to package directions until al dente. Remember to reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining.
Create the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, grated Parmesan cheese, and a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper.
Combine: Sauté the diced chicken until cooked through. Add the drained penne to the pan with the chicken. Remove from heat. Slowly drizzle in the egg mixture while stirring constantly to prevent curdling. Add reserved pasta water as needed to achieve a creamy consistency.
Secrets to a Creamy, Non-Scrambled Carbonara Sauce
We’ve all been there: “I always mess up the sauce!” Fear not! The key to a perfect carbonara sauce is temperature control and constant stirring. Removing the pan from the heat before adding the egg mixture is crucial. The residual heat gently cooks the eggs while continuous stirring prevents scrambling, resulting in a velvety smooth sauce.
Is Chicken Traditional? Exploring the Modern Carbonara
While chicken isn’t traditional in classic carbonara, culinary traditions evolve. Chicken provides a lean protein option and a delicate flavor that beautifully complements the rich sauce. Don’t be afraid to break a few culinary rules! This modern adaptation offers a delicious and satisfying twist on a beloved classic.
Simple Chicken Carbonara Recipe
Looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal? This simple chicken carbonara recipe delivers creamy, cheesy goodness without the fuss. It’s a perfect comfort food classic with tender chicken and a luscious sauce that comes together in minutes. A simple twist on the classic, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Chicken and Bacon Carbonara with Cream
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this chicken and bacon carbonara with cream. The smoky bacon complements the tender chicken, while the creamy sauce adds a touch of richness. This decadent pasta dish is perfect for a weekend treat or a special occasion.
Traditional Chicken Carbonara Recipe
While purists might debate the inclusion of chicken, this traditional chicken carbonara recipe offers a delicious twist on the classic. It retains the core elements of carbonara – rich egg yolks, salty cheese, and black pepper – while incorporating the savory flavor of chicken. A satisfying meal that honors tradition with a modern touch.
How to Make Chicken Carbonara with Jar Sauce
Short on time? Learn how to make chicken carbonara with jar sauce for a quick and easy meal. This shortcut method uses your favorite jarred Alfredo or carbonara sauce as a base, saving you time and effort. Simply add cooked chicken and your favorite pasta for a satisfying meal in minutes.
Chicken Carbonara Recipe Jamie Oliver
Inspired by the culinary genius of Jamie Oliver, this chicken carbonara recipe offers a fresh and flavorful take on the classic. It emphasizes simple, high-quality ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, making it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. A delicious and accessible recipe for a midweek meal.
Best Chicken Carbonara Recipe
Searching for the best chicken carbonara recipe? Look no further! This recipe combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a creamy, flavorful sauce. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates.
Penne Carbonara Recipe with Cream
This penne carbonara recipe with cream offers a luscious and indulgent twist on the classic. The addition of cream creates an extra velvety sauce that clings beautifully to the penne pasta. A rich and satisfying comfort food perfect for a cozy night in.
Spaghetti Carbonara with Cream, No Egg
For those with egg allergies or dietary restrictions, this spaghetti carbonara with cream, no egg, provides a delicious alternative. The cream creates a rich and satisfying sauce without relying on eggs, making it accessible to everyone.
Spaghetti Carbonara with Cream No Egg BBC Good Food
Inspired by the trusted recipes of BBC Good Food, this spaghetti carbonara with cream, no egg, offers a reliable and flavorful option. This recipe is perfect for those seeking a classic carbonara experience without using eggs. A delicious and easy-to-follow recipe from a trusted source.
Penne Pasta with Grilled Chicken
Enjoy a lighter take on pasta with this penne pasta with grilled chicken recipe. The grilled chicken adds a smoky char and a healthy protein boost, while the penne provides a hearty base. A simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner.
Creamy Chicken Penne Pasta with Spinach
Add a touch of green to your pasta night with this creamy chicken penne pasta with spinach. The spinach adds nutrients and a vibrant color, while the creamy sauce and tender chicken provide a comforting base. A delicious and healthy meal that’s perfect for the whole family.
Simple Chicken Carbonara Recipe
This simple chicken carbonara recipe UK offers a classic take on the dish with a British twist. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Using readily available ingredients in the UK, this recipe delivers a comforting and flavorful meal.
Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating Tips
Store leftover penne carbonara with chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This recipe is an excellent option for meal prepping. To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to maintain its creaminess and prevent drying. Avoid overheating, as this can cause the sauce to separate.
Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Dish
Pair your penne carbonara with chicken with crusty garlic bread, a crisp Caesar salad, or a chilled glass of white wine. For an elegant presentation, garnish with fresh parsley and extra grated Parmesan cheese. Savor the sensory delight of a complete Italian-inspired meal.
Penne Carbonara with Chicken
Equipment
- 1 Large Pot For boiling the penne pasta
- 1 Large Skillet / Pan For cooking chicken and combining all ingredients
- 1 Medium bowl For mixing egg yolks, cheese, and black pepper
- 1 Cutting board To chop or slice chicken and other ingredients
- 1 Sharp knife Essential for trimming and cutting chicken breast
- 1 Tongs or Pasta Spoon For stirring and tossing the pasta with sauce
- 1 Whisk or Fork To blend egg yolks with parmesan and pepper
- 1 Measuring Cups & Spoons For accurate ingredient measurement
- 1 Grater To freshly grate parmesan cheese for maximum flavor
- 1 Colander To drain the cooked pasta
Ingredients
- 300 grams Penne pasta Can substitute with gluten-free or whole wheat pasta if desired
- 2 pieces Chicken breasts Boneless, skinless; sliced into thin strips or cubes
- 3 pieces Egg yolks Room temperature; forms the base of the creamy sauce
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese Freshly grated; avoid pre-shredded for best melt and flavor
- 2 cloves Garlic Finely minced; sautéed for added depth
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil For cooking chicken; can use butter for extra richness
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt Adjust to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper Freshly cracked for authentic carbonara flavor
- 1/4 cup Pasta water Reserved from cooked pasta; helps emulsify sauce
- Optional – Fresh parsley Finely chopped, for garnish and added color
- Optional – Crushed red chili flakes For a subtle spicy kick (if desired)
Instructions
- Boil the Pasta Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente (firm to the bite), about 10–12 minutes. Reserve ¼ cup of the pasta water, then drain the rest and set the pasta aside.
- Cook the Chicken While the pasta is boiling, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken, season with a pinch of salt and pepper, and cook for 6–8 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce Base In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, grated parmesan cheese, and freshly cracked black pepper. The mixture should be thick and creamy.
- Sauté Garlic (Optional but Recommended) In the same skillet used for the chicken, add a little more olive oil if needed and lightly sauté the minced garlic for 30–60 seconds—just until fragrant, not browned.
- Combine Everything Reduce the heat to low. Return the cooked chicken and drained pasta to the skillet with the garlic. Slowly pour in the egg and cheese mixture while stirring continuously to coat the pasta and chicken evenly. Add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce and make it silky.
- Finish and ServeStir until everything is well combined and the sauce becomes creamy (not scrambled). Remove from heat immediately once creamy. Top with extra parmesan, black pepper, and optional parsley or chili flakes. Serve hot and enjoy!
FAQs
Can chicken be used in carbonara?
Yes, absolutely! While traditional carbonara uses pancetta or guanciale, chicken is a popular and delicious alternative. It offers a leaner protein option and a milder flavor that complements the rich sauce. Many people enjoy the taste and versatility chicken brings to this classic dish.
Can you use penne pasta for carbonara?
While spaghetti is the traditional pasta for carbonara, penne works beautifully. Its tube shape holds the creamy sauce well, ensuring every bite is coated in flavor. Feel free to use other pasta shapes too – it’s all about personal preference!
What is carbonara sauce made of?
Authentic carbonara sauce relies on just a few key ingredients: eggs, hard cheese (like Pecorino Romano or Parmesan), cured pork fat (traditionally guanciale or pancetta), and black pepper. The key is to combine these ingredients in a way that creates a creamy, emulsified sauce without scrambling the eggs.
Is carbonara healthy or unhealthy?
Like most dishes, carbonara’s healthiness depends on portion size and ingredients. It’s relatively high in calories and fat due to the cheese and cured pork. However, using leaner protein like chicken and whole-wheat pasta can make it a more balanced meal. Enjoy it in moderation as part of a varied diet.
Is carbonara a junk food?
Carbonara isn’t typically considered junk food. While it’s not a health food per se, it provides protein, carbohydrates, and some vitamins and minerals from the eggs and cheese. “Junk food” usually refers to highly processed foods with little nutritional value, which doesn’t accurately describe carbonara.
Is carbonara halal or not?
Traditional carbonara is not halal due to the presence of pancetta or guanciale, which are pork products. However, you can make a halal version by substituting the pork with halal beef bacon or turkey bacon. Be sure to check all other ingredients, like cheese, to ensure they are halal-certified.
Conclusion
Penne carbonara with chicken is a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-prepare dish perfect for any night of the week. We hope this recipe inspires you to create a delicious and satisfying meal that brings joy to your table. Enjoy!
