What To Know
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package directions.
- Serve the chicken carbonara with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Chicken carbonara is a relatively high-calorie dish, but it also provides a good source of protein, carbohydrates, and fats.
The term “carbonara” originates from the Italian word “carbonaro,” meaning “charcoal burner.” This culinary masterpiece is believed to have been created by Italian charcoal burners who used to cook their meals over an open fire using simple ingredients they had on hand. The dish consists of pasta, eggs, cheese, and pork cheek or guanciale, a cured meat made from pig cheeks.
Chicken Carbonara: A Modern Twist on a Classic
Chicken carbonara is a modern variation of the original dish that substitutes chicken for pork cheek. This adaptation makes it a more accessible and versatile dish while maintaining the essence of the traditional recipe.
Ingredients for Chicken Carbonara
To make chicken carbonara, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound of pasta (such as spaghetti, linguine, or penne)
- 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup of grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- 4 large eggs
- 1/4 cup of heavy cream
- 1/4 cup of olive oil
- 1/4 cup of chopped onion
- 2 cloves of minced garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package directions.
2. Sauté the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and sauté the chicken until cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Make the Sauce: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Pecorino Romano cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine the Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta, sautéed chicken, and onion to the sauce. Toss to combine.
5. Serve Immediately: Serve the chicken carbonara immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.
Tips for the Perfect Chicken Carbonara
- For a richer flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan and Pecorino Romano cheeses.
- If you don’t have heavy cream, you can use milk instead.
- To prevent the eggs from scrambling, add them to the pasta mixture gradually while whisking constantly.
- Serve the chicken carbonara with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Variations on Chicken Carbonara
- Vegetarian Carbonara: Omit the chicken and add sautéed vegetables such as broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms.
- Seafood Carbonara: Use shrimp, scallops, or crab instead of chicken.
- Creamy Carbonara: Add more heavy cream to the sauce for a richer and creamier texture.
- Spicy Carbonara: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped chili peppers for a bit of heat.
Nutritional Value of Chicken Carbonara
Chicken carbonara is a relatively high-calorie dish, but it also provides a good source of protein, carbohydrates, and fats. A serving of chicken carbonara (approximately 1 cup) contains:
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 30 grams
- Carbohydrates: 50 grams
- Fat: 25 grams
What You Need to Know
1. What is the difference between chicken carbonara and traditional carbonara?
Chicken carbonara uses chicken instead of pork cheek or guanciale.
2. Can I use other types of pasta for chicken carbonara?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as linguine, penne, or rigatoni.
3. How do I prevent the eggs from scrambling in the sauce?
Add the eggs to the pasta mixture gradually while whisking constantly.
4. Can I make chicken carbonara ahead of time?
Yes, you can make chicken carbonara ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
5. What are some good side dishes to serve with chicken carbonara?
A side of crusty bread, salad, or roasted vegetables would pair well with chicken carbonara.
