What To Know
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, Parmesan cheese, Pecorino Romano cheese, heavy cream, and white wine (if using).
- Simply shred the chicken and add it to the skillet in step 3.
- Chicken Carbonara is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Olive Garden’s iconic Chicken Carbonara right at home. With our step-by-step guide, you’ll master the art of this creamy and savory pasta dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package directions. Drain the spaghetti and set aside.
2. Whisk the Eggs: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, Parmesan cheese, Pecorino Romano cheese, heavy cream, and white wine (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Heat the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shredded chicken and cook until warmed through.
4. Combine the Ingredients: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the chicken. Pour the egg mixture over the pasta and toss to combine.
5. Cook the Sauce: Cook the pasta, tossing frequently, until the sauce has thickened and coats the pasta. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
6. Stir in the Parsley: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped fresh parsley.
7. Serve Immediately: Serve the Chicken Carbonara hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and parsley if desired.
Tips for Success:
- Use freshly grated cheese: Pre-grated cheese often contains additives that can affect the taste and texture of the sauce.
- Don’t overcook the eggs: The eggs should be cooked just until they are set. Overcooking will make the sauce rubbery.
- Add a splash of white wine: White wine adds a subtle acidity and depth of flavor to the sauce.
- Season to taste: Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings to your liking.
- Serve immediately: Chicken Carbonara is best enjoyed fresh and hot.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Sautéed mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers can add extra flavor and texture to the dish.
- Use a different type of pasta: Penne, fettuccine, or linguine are all suitable alternatives to spaghetti.
- Make it vegetarian: Omit the chicken and use extra vegetables instead.
The Finishing Touches:
Garnish with:
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Black pepper
Serve with:
- Garlic bread
- Salad
- A glass of white wine
Beyond Chicken Carbonara:
Explore other tantalizing pasta dishes from Olive Garden:
- Chicken Alfredo
- Pasta Primavera
- Five Cheese Ziti
FAQ:
1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe. Simply shred the chicken and add it to the skillet in step 3.
2. What can I substitute for white wine?
If you don’t have white wine, you can use chicken broth or vegetable broth instead.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Chicken Carbonara is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce gently and toss with the cooked pasta.
