Chicken Carbonara Pasta
Chicken Carbonara Pasta Bake: A Creamy, Savory Delight
Chicken Carbonara Pasta Bake is an irresistible blend of two beloved dishes: the rich and creamy carbonara and the comforting, cheesy pasta bake. This dish brings together the best of both worlds, offering a satisfying meal that's both indulgent and easy to prepare. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe will guide you through creating a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen.
The Essence of Carbonara
Originating from Rome, carbonara is a traditional Italian pasta dish known for its creamy sauce made from eggs, cheese, pancetta, and pepper. Unlike other creamy pasta sauces, carbonara doesn't rely on cream; instead, the creaminess comes from the emulsion of eggs and cheese. The pancetta adds a salty, savory depth, while freshly ground black pepper provides a spicy kick.
Pasta Bakes: A Comfort Food Classic
Pasta bakes are a staple in many households, celebrated for their versatility and convenience. Combining pasta with a variety of ingredients and baking them until bubbly and golden creates a dish that's both hearty and crowd-pleasing. The baked top layer of cheese adds a delightful texture contrast to the creamy pasta beneath.
The Fusion: Chicken Carbonara Pasta Bake
In our Chicken Carbonara Pasta Bake, we've taken the creamy, savory elements of traditional carbonara and transformed them into a baked dish that's as comforting as it is delicious. Tender chicken breast adds a hearty protein element, while the crispy pancetta infuses the dish with its signature flavor. The creamy sauce, made with a combination of eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a touch of heavy cream, perfectly coats the pasta, creating a luscious, velvety texture.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and perfect for both beginner and experienced cooks.
- Family-Friendly: With familiar flavors and a comforting texture, this dish is sure to be a hit with the whole family.
- Versatile: While this recipe calls for specific ingredients, you can easily adapt it to suit your taste or what you have on hand.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you're making a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal for guests, this dish fits the bill.
Key Ingredients and Techniques
- Chicken Breast: Provides a lean protein that complements the creamy sauce.
- Pancetta: Adds a rich, savory flavor; can be substituted with bacon if needed.
- Eggs and Parmesan Cheese: Create the creamy carbonara sauce without the need for heavy cream.
- Heavy Cream: Adds an extra layer of richness to the sauce.
- Pasta: Rigatoni or penne are ideal choices as their ridges hold onto the sauce well.
- Baking: Combining the ingredients and baking them creates a delightful texture contrast.
Steps to Success
- Prep the Ingredients: Cook the pasta until al dente, dice the chicken, and crisp the pancetta.
- Make the Sauce: Whisk together eggs, Parmesan, and a touch of cream.
- Combine and Bake: Mix everything together, top with cheese, and bake until golden and bubbly.
Health Benefits and Nutritional Information
While this dish is indulgent, it's also packed with protein from the chicken and eggs. Using whole grain pasta can increase the fiber content, and you can add vegetables like spinach or peas for extra nutrients.
Perfect Pairings and Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish with a simple green salad and a glass of crisp white wine to balance the richness. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette makes a great accompaniment to soak up the creamy sauce.
Chicken Carbonara Pasta Bake is a delightful fusion of classic Italian carbonara and a comforting pasta bake. This dish features tender chicken, crispy pancetta, and perfectly cooked pasta, all enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce. Baked to golden perfection, it's a versatile and easy-to-make meal that's perfect for any occasion.
- 300 grams rigatoni pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (30 ml)
- 500 grams boneless, skinless chicken breasts (diced)
- 150 grams pancetta (diced)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced, 20 grams)
- 3 large eggs (150 grams)
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese (grated, 100 grams)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (120 ml)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (1 gram)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (1.5 grams)
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded, 100 grams)
- Prepare the Chicken:Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce:In the same skillet, add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden, about 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Reduce the heat to medium and add the heavy cream. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce:Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, ensuring it melts completely into the sauce.
- Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them to coat well.
- Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Serve:Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired.
- Serve hot, paired with your choice of side dishes.
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 450kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 30g47%
- Saturated Fat 15g75%
- Cholesterol 120mg40%
- Sodium 600mg25%
- Potassium 700mg20%
- Total Carbohydrate 5g2%
- Sugars 2g
- Protein 40g80%
- Vitamin A 1000 IU
- Vitamin C 2 mg
- Calcium 200 mg
- Iron 1 mg
- Vitamin D 20 IU
- Vitamin E 1 IU
- Vitamin K 10 mcg
- Thiamin 0.1 mg
- Riboflavin 0.2 mg
- Niacin 15 mg
- Vitamin B6 0.5 mg
- Folate 10 mcg
- Vitamin B12 0.5 mcg
- Biotin 5 mcg
- Pantothenic Acid 1 mg
- Phosphorus 300 mg
- Iodine 20 g
- Magnesium 30 mmol
- Zinc 2 mcg
- Selenium 20 mg
- Copper 0.2 mg
- Manganese 0.1 mg
- Chromium 10 mcg
- Molybdenum 20 mg
- Chloride 300 mmol
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
- Make sure to use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.
- You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a slightly different taste.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- This dish pairs well with a variety of side dishes like pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Tips & Tricks
- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for more consistent cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 75°C.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to retain its juices.
- Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for an extra depth of flavor.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or thyme for an added touch of freshness.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over a bed of fettuccine or spaghetti for a hearty meal.
- Pair with a side of roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus.
- Accompany with garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Add a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish.
- Serve with mashed potatoes for a comforting, classic combination.
Dietary Restrictions
- This dish contains dairy and is not suitable for those who are lactose intolerant.
- The recipe is gluten-free if served without gluten-containing sides.