Creamy Chicken, Bacon & Mushroom Carbonara is a hearty twist on the classic Italian dish. Packed with tender chicken, crispy bacon, and earthy mushrooms, this recipe delivers a rich and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a cozy night in.
The creamy sauce, laced with Parmesan and a hint of garlic, clings to the pasta for every bite of indulgence. Serve it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete, restaurant-worthy meal. Whether you’re hosting friends or treating yourself, this recipe guarantees smiles and second servings!
Recipe for Creamy Chicken Bacon and Mushroom Carbonara
Equipment
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Tongs or pasta fork
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz Spaghetti or fettuccine
- Salt for boiling water
For the Sauce:
- 2 Tbsp Olive oil
- 6 Strips Bacon chopped
- 1 Large chicken breast diced
- 1 Cup Mushrooms sliced
- 3 Cloves Garlic minced
- 2 Whole Large eggs
- 1 Cup Heavy cream
- ¾ Cup Grated Parmesan cheese plus extra for serving
- 1 Tsp Black pepper
- ½ Tsp Salt
- ¼ Tsp Red pepper flakes optional
- 2 Tbsp Fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.Add the pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions.Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Prepare the Proteins:Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.Add the diced chicken to the skillet and season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook until golden and fully cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove and set aside with the bacon.
- Cook the Mushrooms:Add the remaining olive oil to the skillet and toss in the mushrooms.Sauté until browned and tender, about 5 minutes.Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
- Make the Sauce:In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Combine Everything:Reduce the skillet heat to low.Return the bacon, chicken, and cooked pasta to the skillet.Slowly pour the sauce over the pasta, tossing quickly to coat while the pan is still warm.Use reserved pasta water, a few tablespoons at a time, to adjust the consistency of the sauce if needed. The residual heat will cook the eggs and thicken the sauce without scrambling it.
- Serve:Plate the pasta immediately, garnishing with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
Video
Notes
- Keep the sauce smooth: Avoid overheating the sauce after adding the eggs to prevent curdling. Toss quickly and remove from heat as soon as the sauce thickens.
- Make it vegetarian: Skip the chicken and bacon and add extra mushrooms or spinach for a veggie twist.
- Upgrade the flavor: Use pancetta instead of bacon, or add a splash of white wine before mixing the sauce for a touch of acidity.
Perfect Pairings
This Creamy Chicken, Bacon & Mushroom Carbonara pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and beverages:
- Side Dishes: A crisp Caesar salad or roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts balance the richness of the pasta. Garlic bread or focaccia also make excellent accompaniments.
- Beverages: For a drink, a chilled white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creaminess. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with a slice of lemon works beautifully.
Creative Alternatives
- Swap the Protein: Replace chicken with shrimp or thinly sliced sausage for a different flavor profile.
- Go Vegetarian: Leave out the meat altogether and double up on mushrooms or add spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or artichokes.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for dietary needs.
Similar Recipes to Try
- Classic Spaghetti Carbonara: Try the traditional version with pancetta, eggs, and Pecorino Romano for a taste of authenticity.
- Creamy Garlic Alfredo: Another rich and creamy pasta dish that uses a white sauce base.
- One-Pot Chicken and Mushroom Stroganoff: A cozy dish with similar flavors but a tangier, sour cream-based sauce.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked chicken for Creamy Chicken, Bacon & Mushroom Carbonara?
Yes, you can. Shred or dice pre-cooked chicken, such as rotisserie chicken, and add it to the pan when combining the bacon and mushrooms. This saves time without compromising flavor.
What’s the best substitute for heavy cream in Carbonara?
Use half-and-half for a lighter option that still delivers creaminess. Whole milk works in a pinch, but for the signature richness, heavy cream is the way to go.
Which mushrooms are ideal for Carbonara?
Cremini (baby bella) mushrooms are the top pick for their meaty texture and flavor. If you’re aiming for something bolder, opt for shiitake or porcini mushrooms.
Can Carbonara be made ahead of time?
Not entirely. The proteins and mushrooms can be prepped ahead, but the sauce should always be made fresh. Reheating the completed dish can lead to a thicker sauce and less creamy consistency.
How do I fix a sauce that’s too thick?
If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water or a splash of milk to loosen it. If it’s too thin, stir in more Parmesan or let it cook on low heat for a few minutes to thicken up.
Conclusion
Creamy Chicken, Bacon & Mushroom Carbonara is a rich, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of creamy sauce, crispy bacon, tender chicken, and flavorful mushrooms creates a dish that feels indulgent without being complicated. It’s a recipe that brings warmth and comfort to your table, whether it’s a quiet dinner or a gathering with friends.
Serve it fresh, pair it with your favorite sides, and enjoy the simplicity of great ingredients coming together.
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I’m Leo McIntyre, and my love for cooking was born in my grandmother’s kitchen, where I discovered the magic of traditional Southern recipes. Inspired by her passion and the flavors of my childhood, I started SouthernParm to share these treasured family dishes and keep the rich culinary traditions of the South alive for everyone to enjoy.
