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Creamy Chicken Carbonara with Peas Recipe

Who doesn’t love a rich and creamy pasta dish that can be whipped up in no time? This Chicken Carbonara with Peas is a delightful twist on the classic Italian recipe, combining tender chicken, vibrant peas, and a luscious sauce that clings to every strand of spaghetti.

Imagine sitting down to a plate of perfectly cooked pasta, coated in a silky carbonara sauce, with the subtle sweetness of peas adding a burst of color and flavor. This recipe is not only satisfying but also quick enough to make on a busy weeknight.

Visual Appeal of Chicken Carbonara

The presentation of Chicken Carbonara is truly captivating. This dish features creamy spaghetti intertwined with tender pieces of chicken and vibrant green peas, creating a feast for the eyes.

Served in a rustic bowl, the glossy sauce glistens, inviting diners to savor each bite. The fresh parsley garnish adds a pop of color, enhancing the overall appeal and hinting at the fresh flavors within.

Ingredients That Make a Difference

Each component in Chicken Carbonara plays a vital role in achieving its rich flavor profile. The creamy sauce, made from eggs and Parmesan cheese, envelops the pasta, enriching its texture and taste.

Incorporating sweet, thawed peas not only contributes a burst of color but also balances the dish’s richness, providing a delightful contrast. The chicken adds heartiness, ensuring that every serving is both satisfying and fulfilling.

Quick and Easy Preparation

This Chicken Carbonara can be prepared swiftly, making it an excellent option for weeknight dinners. With just a few simple steps, you can transform basic ingredients into an impressive meal.

The process begins with cooking spaghetti to al dente perfection, then sautéing the chicken until golden brown. The key is in the timing, ensuring that the pasta and chicken meet at just the right moment for a seamless combination.

Perfect Pairings and Serving Suggestions

Chicken Carbonara pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or garlic bread, enhancing the dining experience without overwhelming the palate.

For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a light white wine, which complements the creamy sauce beautifully. This combination elevates the flavors, making for a satisfying dinner at home.

Nutrition and Serving Size

Each serving of Chicken Carbonara offers a balanced mix of protein, carbohydrates, and fats, making it a wholesome choice for any meal. With around 550 calories per serving, this dish provides ample energy for an active lifestyle.

With a serving size that comfortably feeds four, it’s perfect for family gatherings or small dinner parties, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied.

Making it Your Own

Personalizing Chicken Carbonara is easy. You might choose to add extra vegetables, such as spinach or mushrooms, to enhance both nutrition and flavor.

Experimenting with different types of cheese or spices can also yield exciting results, allowing you to create a version that suits your taste preferences. This dish is versatile, inviting culinary creativity while maintaining its classic roots.

Delicious Chicken Carbonara with Peas

A bowl of Chicken Carbonara with peas, topped with parsley, on a wooden table.

This Chicken Carbonara is a creamy, savory dish made with sautéed chicken breast, sweet peas, and a decadent sauce made from eggs and cheese. It’s a comforting meal that balances richness with the freshness of peas.

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces spaghetti
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 pound chicken breast, diced
  • 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
  2. Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
  3. Prepare the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and grated Parmesan cheese until smooth. Set aside.
  4. Combine: Lower the heat, add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the chicken, and toss to combine. Remove from heat and quickly pour the egg and cheese mixture over the pasta, tossing constantly to create a creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.
  5. Add Peas: Stir in the thawed peas until well combined, and cook for an additional minute to heat through.
  6. Serve: Plate the carbonara and garnish with fresh parsley, additional Parmesan cheese, and a sprinkle of black pepper.

Cook and Prep Times

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutrition Information

  • Servings: 4
  • Calories: 550kcal
  • Fat: 20g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Carbohydrates: 60g