Chicken bacon carbonara with whole-wheat pasta

This Chicken Bacon Carbonara features whole-wheat pasta enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce made with heavy cream, parmesan, and egg, complemented by savory chicken, crispy bacon, and earthy mushrooms and onions. It's a hearty and flavourful dish perfect for a satisfying meal.

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05 May 2026
Cook time 35 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

12 oz whole-wheat pasta
4 chicken breasts
4 bacon strips
1 onion
4 mushrooms
1 garlic clove
2 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tbsp sour cream
1 egg
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
Chicken bacon carbonara with whole-wheat pasta

Treat yourself and your loved ones to a creamy, flavorful, and hearty Chicken Bacon Carbonara with Whole-Wheat Pasta. This recipe combines the savory taste of chicken and bacon with the wholesome goodness of whole-wheat pasta, making it a nutritious yet indulgent meal. The rich sauce, made with heavy whipping cream, sour cream, and grated parmesan cheese, is infused with the earthy flavors of onions, mushrooms, and garlic, creating a symphony of flavors in every bite.

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the whole-wheat pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a splash of oil.
- Cook the chicken breasts for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked through and no longer pink inside.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest.
- Slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces once it has cooled slightly.
3. Cook the Bacon:
- In the same skillet, add the bacon strips.
- Cook until the bacon is crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel to drain excess grease.
- Once cool, crumble the bacon into small pieces.
4. Prep the Veggies:
- Finely chop the onion, mushrooms, and garlic.
- Using the same skillet, add a small amount of the bacon grease or a bit of olive oil.
- SautΓ© the onion until it becomes translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Add the mushrooms and garlic, cooking until the mushrooms are tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Make the Carbonara Sauce:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the heavy whipping cream, sour cream, egg, and grated Parmesan cheese until well combined.
- Reduce the skillet’s heat to low and slowly add the cream mixture, stirring constantly to prevent the egg from scrambling.
- Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Combine Everything:
- Add the cooked pasta, sliced chicken, and crumbled bacon to the skillet with the sauce.
- Toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated and the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Check seasoning and adjust with more salt and pepper if needed.
7. Serve:
- Serve the Chicken Bacon Carbonara hot.
- Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese and freshly ground black pepper, if desired.

There you have itβ€”a delightful and satisfying Chicken Bacon Carbonara with Whole-Wheat Pasta that is sure to become a favorite in your household. The complementary flavors and textures make it a comforting and wholesome dish perfect for any occasion. Serve it hot and enjoy the creamy, savory goodness with your friends and family.

Chicken bacon carbonara with whole-wheat pasta FAQ:

How long do I need to cook the whole-wheat pasta?

Cook the whole-wheat pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. This typically takes about 8-10 minutes, but check the package for specific timing.

What should I do if the sauce is too thick?

If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water gradually until you reach the desired consistency while mixing well to combine.

Can I substitute heavy whipping cream with a lighter alternative?

Yes, you can substitute heavy whipping cream with half-and-half or a combination of milk and Greek yogurt for a lighter option, though the creaminess will be reduced.

How should I store leftover Chicken Bacon Carbonara?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little water or broth if necessary to loosen the sauce.

What can I use instead of bacon in this recipe?

For a healthier option, you can use turkey bacon, or to make the dish vegetarian, consider using sautΓ©ed mushrooms or smoked tempeh as a substitute.

Cooking Tips:

- Cook the whole-wheat pasta al dente to maintain a firm texture that holds up well with the sauce.

- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper before cooking to enhance their flavor.

- Cook the bacon strips until crispy to add a delightful crunch to the dish.

- De-stem the mushrooms and slice them thinly for even cooking and a balanced flavor profile.

- Minimize the heat when adding the egg to the sauce to prevent it from scrambling and achieving a smooth, creamy texture.

- Gradually add the grated parmesan cheese, stirring continuously to prevent it from clumping and ensuring it melts evenly into the sauce.

- For added depth of flavor, try using smoked bacon instead of regular bacon.

- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a burst of color and freshness.

Nutrition Facts

4 Servings
Calories 860kcal
Protein 50g
Carbohydrates 36g
Fiber 4.09g
Sugar 6g
Fat 60g

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