Creamy Skillet Chicken Carbonara with turkey Bacon

Name: Creamy Skillet Chicken Carbonara
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, diced; 12 oz fettuccine or spaghetti; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 3 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and black pepper, to taste

Published: December 6, 2025

by Simon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic days.
Rich Flavor: The creamy sauce made from Parmesan cheese and eggs delivers a decadent taste that everyone will adore.
Versatile Meal: Perfect for a cozy dinner at home or a gathering with friends, this recipe fits any occasion.
One-Pan Wonder: With everything cooked in one skillet, cleanup is a breeze!
Customizable: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To create this Creamy Skillet Chicken Carbonara with turkey Bacon, you’ll need a few essential tools. These will help streamline your cooking process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Skillet
Pot for boiling pasta
Mixing bowl
Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

Skillet: A good skillet allows even cooking of chicken while also providing the space needed to combine all ingredients seamlessly.
Pot for boiling pasta: Cooking pasta properly ensures the perfect texture to complement the creamy sauce.
Mixing bowl: Using a mixing bowl helps combine eggs, milk, and cheese efficiently without mess.
Whisk: A whisk is essential for blending the egg mixture smoothly to avoid scrambling.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, diced
Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Sauce

2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
3 large eggs
1 cup whole milk or half-and-half

For the Pasta

12 oz fettuccine or spaghetti

Other Ingredients

6 strips turkey bacon, chopped
2 tbsp olive oil

How to Make Creamy Skillet Chicken Carbonara with turkey Bacon

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain and set aside, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Season diced chicken with salt and black pepper.
Add chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and whole milk until well combined.
If desired, add some reserved pasta water to reach your preferred sauce consistency.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Reduce heat to low after removing cooked chicken from the skillet.
Add cooked pasta to the skillet along with the egg mixture quickly while stirring vigorously to create a creamy sauce without scrambling the eggs.
Return the chicken to the pan, mix well, and adjust seasoning as needed.

Now you have an irresistible Creamy Skillet Chicken Carbonara ready to serve! Enjoy!

How to Serve Creamy Skillet Chicken Carbonara with turkey Bacon

Serving Creamy Skillet Chicken Carbonara with turkey Bacon can elevate your dining experience. It’s a dish that not only tastes delicious but also offers versatility in presentation and pairing. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Classic Plating

Use a large bowl or plate to showcase the creamy pasta. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan for a lovely touch.

Family Style

Serve directly from the skillet on the table. This invites everyone to help themselves, making it perfect for gatherings.

With a Side Salad

Pair your carbonara with a fresh green salad dressed lightly with olive oil and lemon. It adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy dish.

Garlic Bread Accompaniment

Serve with warm garlic bread. The crispy texture complements the smoothness of the carbonara.

How to Perfect Creamy Skillet Chicken Carbonara with turkey Bacon

To create the perfect Creamy Skillet Chicken Carbonara with turkey Bacon, consider these helpful tips:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and quality cheese enhance flavor significantly.
Cook Pasta Al Dente: This ensures your pasta retains texture and holds up well when combined with sauce.
Whisk Eggs Thoroughly: A well-mixed egg mixture leads to an even creaminess throughout the dish.
Reserve Pasta Water: Keeping some pasta water helps adjust sauce consistency without losing flavor.
Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go to avoid over-seasoning.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Skillet Chicken Carbonara with turkey Bacon

Adding side dishes can balance your meal perfectly. Here are some delightful options that pair well with Creamy Skillet Chicken Carbonara with turkey Bacon:

Steamed Broccoli
A light, healthy option that adds color and nutrients.
Roasted Asparagus
Drizzle with olive oil and roast until tender for a savory accompaniment.
Caesar Salad
Crisp romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing provides a nice crunch against creaminess.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes offer warmth and comfort, pairing beautifully with chicken.
Caprese Salad
Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil add freshness that complements rich flavors.
Grilled Zucchini
Lightly seasoned grilled zucchini gives a smoky flavor that contrasts nicely with carbonara.
Herbed Quinoa
A nutty base that is both filling and adds unique flavors to your meal.
Sautéed Spinach
Quick-cooked spinach with garlic brings vibrant color and nutrients to the table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping the Pasta Cooking Step: Always cook your pasta until al dente before adding it to the skillet. This ensures the perfect texture for your Creamy Skillet Chicken Carbonara with turkey Bacon.
Overcooking the Chicken: Cook chicken just until it’s no longer pink. Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough, ruining the dish’s creamy appeal.
Neglecting to Reserve Pasta Water: Reserve some pasta water before draining. This starchy water helps create a silkier sauce for your carbonara.
Not Mixing Quickly Enough: Combine eggs and cheese quickly after removing from heat. This prevents scrambling and allows for a smooth, creamy sauce.
Using Low-Quality Cheese: Invest in good Parmesan cheese. High-quality cheese melts better and enhances the flavor of your Creamy Skillet Chicken Carbonara with turkey Bacon.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
It can last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Creamy Skillet Chicken Carbonara with turkey Bacon

Place in a freezer-safe container.
Best consumed within 2 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Creamy Skillet Chicken Carbonara with turkey Bacon

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk if needed to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Creamy Skillet Chicken Carbonara with turkey Bacon.

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes, you can substitute turkey or beef for chicken. Adjust cooking times as necessary based on the meat you choose.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or zucchini for a hearty vegetarian option while keeping the creamy texture.

What can I serve with Creamy Skillet Chicken Carbonara with turkey Bacon?

Pair it with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that balances flavors beautifully.

How long does this dish take to prepare?

From start to finish, you should expect to spend about 30-40 minutes preparing your Creamy Skillet Chicken Carbonara with turkey Bacon.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Skillet Chicken Carbonara with turkey Bacon is a delightful dish that combines comfort and ease in one pan. Its versatility allows for various customizations based on personal preferences, making it great for any occasion. Give it a try, and enjoy all the creamy goodness!

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