Pasta Chicken Carbonara
Creamy pasta with tender chicken and crispy bacon, infused with Parmesan and garlic, perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or comforting meal for friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place bacon in a 3-quart casserole.
- Cover with paper towel and microwave on High 8 to 12 minutes, stirring after 5 minutes, until crisp.
- Remove bacon with a slotted spoon; drain and reserve.
- Drain excess fat, reserving 1 tablespoon in the casserole.
- Stir chopped onion and garlic into the fat in the casserole.
- Cover tightly and microwave 1 to 3 minutes or until onion is tender.
- Stir in cooked chicken or turkey, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream.
- Cover tightly and microwave 4 to 5 minutes or until heated through.
- Toss with crispy bacon before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For an even richer flavor, consider using pancetta instead of bacon, or add a splash of white wine when cooking the onions and garlic. If you want a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream. Ensure your chicken is well-seasoned for the best taste. This dish can also be enhanced with fresh herbs like parsley or basil, which complement the creamy sauce beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Pasta Chicken Carbonara with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs well with a light white wine, such as Pinot Grigio. You can also serve it alongside Italian recipes like Stuffed Shells Italiano for a delightful dinner spread that impresses guests.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream to restore the sauce's creaminess. Avoid reheating too long, as it may cause the pasta to become mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pasta Chicken Carbonara contains roughly 416 calories, with 21g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (43% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (42% of the Daily Value), and calcium (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 574mg per serving (25% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile. You can substitute the chicken with diced ham or even shrimp for a seafood twist. Just ensure the meat is cooked before adding to the casserole to keep the cooking time consistent.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can create a vegetarian version by omitting the bacon and chicken. Use mushrooms or a meat substitute to add texture, and consider adding vegetables like peas or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
What can I serve as a side dish with this carbonara?
A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the carbonara perfectly. You might also enjoy serving it alongside garlic bread or a classic Italian antipasto platter for a delightful meal experience.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).