Creamy Skillet Chicken Carbonara with Bacon

Creamy Skillet Chicken Carbonara with Bacon is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and creamy textures, making it perfect for a cozy dinner or a quick weeknight meal. This one-pan wonder brings comfort food to the next level without the fuss of multiple pots. With its balanced ingredients and simple preparation, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends at any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything is cooked in just one skillet.
• Rich Flavor: The creamy sauce blends beautifully with the chicken and pasta for a deliciously satisfying meal.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out the chicken or pasta type based on what you have on hand.
• Kid-Friendly: The creamy texture and savory flavor make it appealing to both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Creamy Skillet Chicken Carbonara with Bacon, you will need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick skillet
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Whisk
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick skillet: Prevents sticking and ensures easy cleanup, allowing your carbonara to cook evenly.
• Pot for boiling pasta: Essential for cooking your fettuccine or spaghetti perfectly al dente.
• Whisk: Helps to blend eggs and milk smoothly, ensuring a creamy sauce without lumps.
• Tongs: Ideal for tossing the chicken and pasta together, making mixing easy and efficient.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, diced

For the Sauce

• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half

For the Pasta

• 12 oz fettuccine or spaghetti

For Cooking

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

How to Make Creamy Skillet Chicken Carbonara with Bacon

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the fettuccine or spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

1. In a non-stick skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the diced chicken to the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper.
3. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

1. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and milk until smooth.
2. Pour this mixture into the same skillet over low heat.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the sauce.
2. Mix in the sautéed chicken while tossing everything together gently.
3. If needed, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired creaminess.

Step 5: Serve Hot

1. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary before serving.
2. Enjoy your Creamy Skillet Chicken Carbonara with Bacon warm!

How to Serve Creamy Skillet Chicken Carbonara with Bacon

Creamy Skillet Chicken Carbonara is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to special gatherings.

Family Style

• Serve the carbonara in a large bowl, allowing everyone to help themselves. Garnish with extra grated Parmesan for added flavor.

Individual Plates

• Plate the carbonara in individual portions. Top with freshly cracked black pepper and a sprinkle of parsley for an elegant touch.

With Garlic Bread

• Pair the dish with warm garlic bread. The crispy bread complements the creamy sauce beautifully, making each bite satisfying.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Add a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil just before serving. This brightens up the flavors and adds a pop of color.

How to Perfect Creamy Skillet Chicken Carbonara with Bacon

Perfecting your Creamy Skillet Chicken Carbonara takes practice, but these tips will help you achieve restaurant-quality results.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh chicken and high-quality cheese enhance the dish’s flavor significantly.
• Control heat carefully: Cooking on medium heat prevents the sauce from curdling while still allowing it to thicken nicely.
• Cook pasta al dente: This ensures that your pasta retains some bite and doesn’t become mushy when mixed with the sauce.
• Reserve pasta water: Save a cup of pasta cooking water. It can help adjust the consistency of your sauce if it becomes too thick.
• Incorporate eggs gradually: Mix eggs slowly into the hot pasta mixture off the heat to create a creamy texture without scrambling them.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Skillet Chicken Carbonara with Bacon

When serving Creamy Skillet Chicken Carbonara, consider these side dishes that complement its rich flavors perfectly.

1. Steamed Broccoli
   Lightly steamed broccoli adds a vibrant color and nutritious crunch to your meal.

2. Caesar Salad
   A classic Caesar salad provides crisp romaine lettuce and tangy dressing, balancing the richness of the carbonara.

3. Roasted Vegetables
   A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables enhances your plate with caramelized flavors and textures.

4. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic offer another layer of comfort alongside your main dish.

5. Caprese Salad
   Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze add freshness and acidity to contrast the creaminess.

6. Bruschetta
   Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and olive oil serves as a light appetizer before diving into your main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can enhance your experience making Creamy Skillet Chicken Carbonara with Bacon.

• Using the wrong pasta: Choose fettuccine or spaghetti for the best texture. Other shapes may not hold the sauce well.
• Skipping the egg tempering: If you add eggs directly to hot pasta, they may scramble. Temper them by mixing with a bit of warm pasta before combining.
• Not seasoning enough: Under-seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Taste and adjust salt and pepper at every stage.
• Overcooking chicken: Ensure chicken is cooked through but remain juicy. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F (75°C).
• Ignoring the sauce consistency: The sauce should be creamy, not runny. Adjust with more cheese or milk to achieve desired thickness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool before sealing.

Freezing Creamy Skillet Chicken Carbonara with Bacon

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Make sure to label the container with the date.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating Creamy Skillet Chicken Carbonara with Bacon

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring in between until hot. Use a microwave-safe dish.
• Stovetop: Reheat over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth if necessary to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Creamy Skillet Chicken Carbonara with Bacon?

Creamy Skillet Chicken Carbonara with Bacon is a delicious, one-pan meal featuring tender chicken, creamy sauce, and pasta, perfect for comfort food lovers.

Can I make this recipe without bacon?

Yes! You can replace bacon with turkey bacon or omit it entirely for a lighter version while still enjoying creamy flavors.

How do I customize my Creamy Skillet Chicken Carbonara with Bacon?

Feel free to add vegetables like peas or spinach for extra nutrition and color. You can also experiment with different cheeses.

How do I ensure my sauce is creamy?

To keep your sauce creamy, combine eggs and cheese off heat and slowly mix them into the pasta. Add reserved pasta water as needed.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Skillet Chicken Carbonara with Bacon embodies comfort food in one pan! This versatile recipe allows for various customizations to fit your taste preferences. Try it today and enjoy a delightful meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare!