Creamy Chicken Carbonara: A Healthy Spin on Comfort Food

A healthy twist on classic Chicken Carbonara, combining tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a creamy sauce for guilt-free comfort.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 550

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Sauce

4 slices Bacon or turkey bacon for a leaner option
2 tablespoons Butter can substitute with olive oil
4 cloves Garlic minced
1 cup Milk whole or low-fat
½ cup Heavy cream can swap for extra milk
2 tablespoons Flour cornstarch as a gluten-free option
½ cup Chicken broth low-sodium preferred

For the Pasta

12 ounces Bowtie pasta or any pasta shape

For the Toppings

2 medium Chicken breasts grilled
¼ cup Parmesan shavings or Pecorino Romano
2 tablespoons Parsley chopped, optional
Salt & Pepper to taste

Equipment

Skillet
whisk
Measuring Cups
Measuring Spoons
Slotted spoon

Method

Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken Carbonara

Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat for 6-8 minutes until crispy.
Sauté garlic in the bacon drippings with butter for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Make the sauce by whisking in flour, then gradually adding milk, cream, and broth, cooking until thickened.
Season the sauce with salt and pepper, and allow to simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Combine chopped chicken and cooked pasta with the sauce, tossing gently to coat.
Fold in crispy bacon and let sit before serving, garnished with Parmesan and parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Avoid curdling by controlling pan temperature. Use fresh cheese for best results. Store leftovers in an airtight container.

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