chicken carbonara recipe with cream

chicken carbonara recipe with cream


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chicken carbonara recipe with cream

The classic Roman carbonara is a masterpiece of simplicity, relying on the perfect marriage of eggs, cheese, guanciale (cured pork jowl), and black pepper. However, many variations exist, and today we're exploring a delicious and creamy chicken carbonara that retains the heart of the original while adding a touch of richness and accessibility. This recipe uses cream to achieve extra creaminess, making it a comforting and satisfying meal.

What Makes this Chicken Carbonara Recipe Special?

This recipe isn't just about swapping out the pork for chicken; it's about enhancing the creamy texture and making the dish accessible to those who might not have guanciale readily available. We’ll focus on techniques to ensure your carbonara is perfectly cooked, avoiding the pitfalls of a scrambled egg mess. The result is a rich, decadent, and flavorful pasta dish that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese (optional, but adds authentic flavor)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, plus more to taste
  • 8 ounces spaghetti or other long pasta
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

  2. Cook the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

  3. Sauté Aromatics: Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 3-5 minutes.

  4. Create the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Parmesan and Pecorino Romano cheeses (if using). Continue stirring until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and black pepper.

  5. Combine Everything: Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet. Add the drained pasta and toss to coat it evenly in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

  6. Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and extra black pepper.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! While spaghetti is traditional, you can use other long pasta shapes like linguine, fettuccine, or even bucatini. Avoid using short pasta shapes, as they won't coat as well in the sauce.

What if I don't have heavy cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less rich and creamy. You might also consider adding a tablespoon or two of butter to help create a richer texture.

Can I make this ahead of time?

It's best to serve this carbonara immediately after cooking, as the pasta will absorb the sauce and become less creamy over time. However, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and then cook the pasta and combine everything just before serving.

How can I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

Keep an eye on the sauce as it simmers and add a little bit of the reserved pasta water if it gets too thick. The starchy water from the pasta helps to create a creamy, emulsified sauce.

What kind of cheese can I use?

Parmesan cheese is essential, but Pecorino Romano adds a nice salty, sharp bite. A blend of both is ideal. You can experiment with other hard cheeses, but ensure they melt well.

This creamy chicken carbonara recipe is a delicious and satisfying twist on a classic. By following these simple steps and addressing common concerns, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home. Enjoy!