Introduction
Sometimes, we all crave a comforting and satisfying meal but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. That’s where this Lazy Day Chicken Carbonara Skillet comes in! It’s a quick, one-pan meal that brings all the rich flavors of a classic carbonara dish while keeping things simple and stress-free.
Carbonara is a traditional Italian pasta dish made with eggs, cheese, pancetta, and pepper, creating a creamy and flavorful sauce without using heavy cream. This recipe puts a slight twist on the classic by adding tender chicken, making it heartier and more protein-packed.
This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, casual dinners, or whenever you need something easy yet delicious. Best of all, it requires only a handful of ingredients, most of which you probably already have in your kitchen. Let’s dive into how you can make this mouthwatering dish in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients Needed
For the Carbonara Sauce:
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup heavy cream (optional for extra creaminess)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
For the Skillet:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 4 slices bacon (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
- 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
- ½ cup reserved pasta water
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your spaghetti or fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Before draining the pasta, reserve ½ cup of pasta water to help bind the sauce later. Set the pasta aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Carbonara Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, heavy cream (if using), and black pepper. This will create a rich and creamy sauce without the need for extra dairy. Set this mixture aside to use later.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken and Bacon
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with a pinch of salt, and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, about 4 minutes. The rendered bacon fat will add incredible flavor to the dish. Once crispy, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Combine Everything in the Skillet
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the bacon and garlic mixture. Then, add the drained pasta, tossing everything together so the flavors meld. If you’re using peas, stir them in at this stage.
Step 5: Incorporate the Carbonara Sauce
Here’s the trick to a perfect carbonara sauce—remove the skillet from heat before adding the egg mixture. Pour the prepared egg and Parmesan mixture over the pasta and stir quickly. The residual heat from the pasta will gently cook the eggs, creating a creamy, silky sauce without scrambling them.
If the sauce feels too thick, slowly add some reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 6: Final Touches
Season with additional salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if you like a bit of heat). Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese for a beautiful finish.
Tips for Success
1. Prevent Scrambled Eggs
The biggest mistake people make with carbonara is scrambling the eggs. To avoid this, always remove the skillet from direct heat before adding the sauce, and continuously stir as you pour it in.
2. Use Freshly Grated Cheese
Pre-packaged grated cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy. Always use fresh Parmesan and grate it yourself for the best texture and flavor.
3. Adjust the Creaminess
Traditional carbonara doesn’t use cream, but if you prefer a richer texture, adding a splash of heavy cream can make it even more indulgent.
4. Don’t Skip the Pasta Water
The starch from the reserved pasta water helps bind the sauce and create a luscious coating on the noodles.
5. Customize It!
- Swap the chicken for shrimp, sausage, or mushrooms for a different flavor profile.
- Add extra veggies like spinach or bell peppers for a nutritious boost.
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit dietary preferences.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve this dish immediately for the best texture and flavor.
- Pair it with garlic bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal.
- A glass of white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, complements the creamy and smoky flavors beautifully.
Nutritional Benefits
This Chicken Carbonara Skillet isn’t just delicious—it’s also packed with nutrients!
- Protein-Packed: Chicken and eggs provide high-quality protein, keeping you full and satisfied.
- Rich in Healthy Fats: The combination of eggs, Parmesan, and olive oil gives the dish healthy fats that are essential for brain and heart health.
- Balanced Carbs: Pasta provides energy, while using whole wheat pasta can add more fiber to your meal.
- Nutritious Add-Ons: Peas and parsley add vitamins and antioxidants, enhancing the meal’s nutritional value.
Conclusion
This Lazy Day Chicken Carbonara Skillet is the perfect meal for busy days when you want something satisfying, flavorful, and easy to prepare. With minimal ingredients and a quick cooking time, you can have a restaurant-quality pasta dish in less than 30 minutes!
Try this recipe and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness of carbonara with a hearty twist. Whether you make it for yourself, your family, or a special dinner, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!
Enjoy your meal! 🍝🥂
