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The choice of pasta is crucial when making Chicken Carbonara. While traditional recipes often call for spaghetti, we recommend using fettuccine for a heartier bite. Fettuccine's wider surface area allows it to hold more sauce, ensuring that every bite is rich and flavorful. However, if you prefer spaghetti, feel free to stick with this classic choice.

Best-Ever Chicken Carbonara

Indulge in the creamy goodness of this Best-Ever Chicken Carbonara! With tender chicken, crispy pancetta, and rich Parmesan, this dish is a comforting favorite. Made in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Simply cook your pasta, sauté the chicken and pancetta, then create a luscious sauce with eggs and cheese. Garnish with fresh parsley for a delicious meal your family will love!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz fettuccine or spaghetti

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced

4 oz pancetta or bacon, diced

2 large cloves garlic, minced

3 large eggs

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving

1 tsp black pepper

1 tsp salt

2 tbsp olive oil

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the fettuccine or spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

    Brown the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

      Sauté Pancetta: In the same skillet, add the pancetta or bacon and cook until crispy, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

        Combine Ingredients: Lower the heat and add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the pancetta. Toss to combine, ensuring the pasta is coated in the pan's drippings.

          Make the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, Parmesan cheese, and black pepper. Slowly pour the egg mixture over the pasta, tossing quickly to prevent the eggs from scrambling. Add reserved pasta cooking water a little at a time until you achieve a creamy consistency.

            Add Chicken: Stir in the cooked chicken and mix until well combined and warmed through.

              Serve: Plate the chicken carbonara, garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Enjoy immediately!

                Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4