What is the preparation time for this recipe?

The preparation time usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes depending on experience and equipment.

Can I substitute any ingredients?

Yes, simple substitutions are possible depending on dietary needs or availability.

How should leftovers be stored?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within two to three days.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

Many steps can be prepared ahead of time to simplify busy cooking days.

Best-Ever Chicken Carbonara Recipe (Best Pasta Recipes) | Chicken Carbonara Recipe, Healthy Recipes, Chicken Breast Recipes

Name: Best-Ever Chicken Carbonara
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 ounces spaghetti or preferred long pasta; 2 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts, about 12 ounces total; 2 large eggs plus 1 large egg yolk; 3/4 cup finely grated aged cheese such as Parmesan or Pecorino; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, lightly crushed; Zest and juice of 1 small lemon; 1/4 cup reserved pasta cooking water, more as needed; 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper, plus more to finish; 2 tablespoons chopped flat-leaf parsley; Salt to taste; Optional: 1/4 cup toasted breadcrumbs for texture

Ingredients

Scale

12 ounces spaghetti or preferred long pasta
2 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts, about 12 ounces total
2 large eggs plus 1 large egg yolk
3/4 cup finely grated aged cheese such as Parmesan or Pecorino
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, lightly crushed
Zest and juice of 1 small lemon
1/4 cup reserved pasta cooking water, more as needed
1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper, plus more to finish
2 tablespoons chopped flat-leaf parsley
Salt to taste
Optional: 1/4 cup toasted breadcrumbs for texture

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook the pasta until just shy of al dente, reserving 1 cup of the cooking water before draining.
While pasta cooks, score the chicken lightly, pat dry, season with salt and cracked black pepper, then sear in olive oil over medium-high heat until deeply browned and cooked through, about 4 to 6 minutes per side depending on thickness; rest for 5 minutes and slice.
In a bowl, whisk together eggs, egg yolk, and grated cheese with a pinch of salt until smooth and glossy; set aside.
Return the drained pasta to the pot off the heat, add the crushed garlic, lemon zest, and 1/4 cup reserved pasta water, tossing to warm and coat the strands.
Working quickly, pour the egg and cheese mixture over the warm pasta, tossing continuously to create a silky emulsion; add more reserved water a tablespoon at a time if needed to reach a glossy consistency.
Fold in the sliced chicken, a squeeze of lemon juice, and chopped parsley; finish with additional cracked pepper and a light sprinkle of cheese.
Serve immediately with optional toasted breadcrumbs on top for crunch and a final grating of cheese.

Notes

Always temper the eggs by using hot, drained pasta and reserved starchy water rather than applying direct heat to the egg bowl to achieve the perfect texture.

Author: Chef Rita
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Searing and Emulsifying
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: Paleo

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 500mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 210mg