If you have been searching for the perfect weeknight meal that feels indulgent, comforting, and effortless to whip up, look no further than this Creamy Chicken and Pea Carbonara Pasta Recipe. It brings together tender chicken, crispy bacon, sweet peas, and a luscious, velvety sauce that clings to every strand of pasta. Each bite bursts with flavor and that classic creamy carbonara feel, made even better with fresh ingredients you can easily find in your kitchen. Once you try this recipe, it will quickly become one of your go-to dishes for both casual dinners and impressing friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might seem simple, but each one plays a crucial role in creating the rich, balanced flavors and inviting textures of this dish. From the perfectly cooked pasta to the smoky bacon and fresh peas, everything comes together beautifully in every forkful.
- 12 ounces spaghetti or fettuccine: The classic pasta choices that soak up the creamy sauce perfectly without becoming mushy.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity richness for sautéing the chicken just right.
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, diced: Provides tender, protein-packed bites that complement the creaminess.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick to balance the cream and cheese.
- 4 slices bacon, chopped: Offers irresistible smoky crispness that lifts the whole meal.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with warm, aromatic depth.
- 1 cup frozen peas: Injects pops of sweetness and bright green color.
- 2 large eggs: The binding agent that creates the signature silky carbonara texture.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, salty bite that makes the sauce rich and flavorful.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Boosts the sauce’s creaminess for that indulgent mouthfeel.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a touch of gentle heat.
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley for garnish (optional): Brightens the dish and adds a fresh herbal note.
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Pea Carbonara Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water and cooking the pasta until al dente. This is key because you want the noodles tender yet with just enough bite to hold the sauce beautifully. Don’t forget to reserve a cup of the pasta water before draining—it’s a secret weapon to achieve the perfect sauce consistency later.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
While your pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the diced chicken with salt and pepper, then sauté until golden and cooked through, which usually takes around 6 to 8 minutes. Cooking the chicken first ensures it gets a lovely sear and stays juicy when mixed back in later. Remove the chicken and set it aside for now.
Step 3: Cook the Bacon and Add Peas
In the same skillet, cook the chopped bacon until it becomes irresistibly crisp. This step infuses the pan with smoky flavor that’s a hallmark of any great carbonara. Add the minced garlic and cook it for about 30 seconds—just enough for the aromas to bloom. Stir in the frozen peas and give them a couple of minutes to heat through, keeping their bright green color and fresh sweetness.
Step 4: Whisk the Carbonara Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs, grated Parmesan, heavy cream, and if you’re feeling adventurous, the crushed red pepper flakes. This dreamy mixture will turn into the creamy sauce that binds the dish together, so getting this smooth and well combined is essential.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Reduce heat to low and add the drained pasta to your skillet with the bacon and peas, tossing everything together so the ingredients mingle. Slowly pour in the egg and cream mixture while stirring constantly and gently to prevent the eggs from scrambling. This technique—known as tempering—the eggs is what creates the silky, luscious sauce you crave. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time to adjust the consistency until the sauce reaches creamy perfection.
Step 6: Add Chicken and Finish
Finally, fold the cooked chicken back into the pasta and heat through gently. The chicken pieces get coated in the creamy sauce, and everything comes together as a comforting, flavorful bowl of happiness. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if you like, and you’re ready to dive in.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Pea Carbonara Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley adds a burst of color and freshness that contrasts beautifully with the rich sauce. For an extra cheesy experience, grate a little more Parmesan on top right before serving. A few extra cracks of black pepper can also brighten up the final presentation.
Side Dishes
This dish is quite filling on its own, but for a well-rounded meal, consider pairing it with a crisp green salad lightly dressed in lemon vinaigrette or some roasted seasonal vegetables to add a touch of freshness and crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
For a show-stopping dinner, serve the pasta in shallow bowls so you can admire all the vibrant colors and textures. You could also garnish with edible flowers or fresh herbs like basil or thyme to elevate the visual appeal. For a cozy family-style presentation, serve it in a large serving platter and let everyone dig in!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from this Creamy Chicken and Pea Carbonara Pasta Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to 3 days, making for delicious next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
While pasta dishes with cream-based sauces don’t always freeze perfectly, you can freeze the components separately. Freeze the cooked chicken and peas in one container and the cooked pasta in another. Thaw and reheat gently for best results, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to refresh the sauce.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers slowly on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave at medium power. Add a little cream or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce and stir often to keep the texture silky and avoid drying out the chicken or pasta.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti or fettuccine are ideal because of how the sauce clings to their shape, feel free to use penne, rigatoni, or even gluten-free pasta if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is it necessary to use cream in this recipe?
Cream adds richness and helps achieve that signature carbonara creaminess, but you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version. Just keep in mind the texture and flavor will be slightly different.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and bacon and consider adding sautéed mushrooms or smoked tempeh to retain the umami flavors. Peas provide a lovely sweetness that balances well with these additions.
What’s the best way to avoid scrambling the eggs?
The key is to add the egg mixture off the heat and stir vigorously while slowly incorporating a bit of reserved pasta water. This tempers the eggs and creates a silky sauce instead of scrambled bits.
Can this dish be made dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free cream alternatives and vegan Parmesan substitutes. For the best flavor, choose products that melt well and have a slightly nutty taste to replicate the traditional carbonara experience.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Creamy Chicken and Pea Carbonara Pasta Recipe enough if you want a meal that feels like a special treat but comes together quickly. It’s a wonderful blend of comforting textures, bright flavors, and satisfying heartiness that will keep you coming back for more. So grab your ingredients and enjoy making this dish your own—dinner is about to get deliciously easy and memorable!
