Welcome to my recipe guide for crafting the best Chicken Carbonara without the pasta! This distinguished take on a classic Italian favorite swaps traditional pasta for juicy, tender chicken. With just a handful of ingredients like crispy bacon, rich Parmesan cheese, and the aromatic allure of garlic, this dish is both comforting and health-conscious. As a low-carb alternative designed for quick preparation, it’s the perfect solution for those busy weeknights or when you’re just starting on your culinary journey. Let’s dive in and transform these simple components into a savory masterpiece with this easy Chicken Carbonara No Pasta recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Carbonara No Pasta
- Quick Preparation: Only 30 minutes from start to finish!
- Low-Carb Delight: Ideal for those on a keto or low-carb diet.
- Rich and Creamy Flavor: Satisfyingly creamy without the heaviness of pasta.
- Easy for Beginners: Perfect for beginners seeking an impressive dish.
- Versatile: Great for meal prep or feeding a crowd.
Ingredients for Chicken Carbonara No Pasta
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 4 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half. For a gluten-free option, ensure the bacon and cheese are certified gluten-free.
How to Make Chicken Carbonara No Pasta – Step by Step
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Bacon
- In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set the bacon aside on paper towels to drain excess grease.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- In the same skillet, using the bacon grease, add the diced chicken. Season with salt and pepper.
- Cook the chicken until browned and thoroughly cooked, approximately 6-8 minutes.
Step 3: Create the Saucy Delight
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Gradually add grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until fully melted and the sauce becomes smooth.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
- Return the crispy bacon to the skillet and mix well with the sauce and chicken.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
For extra crispy texture, consider leaving the bacon to cook an additional minute before removing it from the heat.
Chicken Carbonara No Pasta Recipe Pro Tips for Making the Best Chicken Carbonara No Pasta
- In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set the bacon aside on paper towels to drain excess grease.
- Can I make Chicken Carbonara ahead of time? Yes! Prepare the dish and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- What is the secret to the best Chicken Carbonara No Pasta? Use freshly grated Parmesan for the richest flavor and ensure the chicken is well-seasoned with salt and pepper.
Best Ways to Serve Chicken Carbonara No Pasta
The best way to serve Chicken Carbonara No Pasta is with a side of sautéed spinach or a crisp Caesar salad. For a complete meal, pair with our Roasted Garlic Green Beans or Mediterranean Quinoa Salad. The savory flavors of this creamy dish complement a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon.
Nutritional Information for Chicken Carbonara No Pasta
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Proteins: 35g
- Fat: 30g
- Carbs: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
This low-carb recipe offers a protein-packed meal filled with healthy fats and flavor.
Storage & Leftovers
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze portions in a container for up to 2 months. Thaw completely before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream to prevent the sauce from thickening too much.
FAQs for Chicken Carbonara No Pasta
Can I freeze Chicken Carbonara No Pasta?
Yes, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Ensure it’s properly stored in airtight containers.
What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese in Chicken Carbonara?
Pecorino Romano is a great substitute for Parmesan, offering a saltier taste.
How can I make this dish dairy-free?
Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Sauté mushrooms, bell peppers, or broccoli for added nutrition.
Related Recipes for Chicken Carbonara No Pasta
Chicken Carbonara No Pasta
- Total Time: 30
- Yield: 4 1x
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
A delightful twist on a classic dish that’s both creamy and satisfying, without the pasta.
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 4 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from the pan and set aside on paper towels to drain.
- In the same skillet, using the bacon grease, add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet, stirring until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Return the crispy bacon to the skillet and mix well with the sauce and chicken.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- This dish is low in carbohydrates, making it a great choice for low-carb diets.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences.
- Serve hot for the best flavor.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: Chicken Carbonara, No Pasta, Healthy Recipes, Creamy Sauce, Dinner Ideas, Quick Recipes, Low Carb, Comfort Food, Easy Cooking, Foodie