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Chicken Parmesan Carbonara

Chicken Parmesan Carbonara: A Luxurious Twist on a Classic Dish!

Prepare to embark on a culinary journey with our tantalizing Chicken Parmesan Carbonara recipe. Combining the rich flavors of traditional Chicken Parmesan with the creamy indulgence of Carbonara sauce, this dish is a true delight for your taste buds. With tender chicken breast filets coated in a golden crust and smothered in a decadent bacon and cream sauce, every bite is a symphony of flavors. Let’s dive into the details and discover how to create this gourmet masterpiece in your own kitchen!

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

  • 4 chicken breast filets
  • 3 tablespoons flour
  • 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Sauce:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons butter
  • 8 bacon slices, chopped into small pieces
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch mixed well with 2 teaspoons of cold water

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Chicken:
    • In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper.
    • Dredge the chicken breast filets in the flour mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated on all sides.
  2. Cook the Chicken:
    • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
    • Add the chicken breast filets to the skillet and cook until golden brown on both sides and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side.
    • Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
  3. Make the Sauce:
    • In the same skillet, add the butter and chopped bacon. Cook until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
    • Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onions are soft and translucent.
    • Pour in the heavy whipping cream and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring well to combine.
    • Stir in the cornstarch mixture to thicken the sauce, simmering gently until it reaches your desired consistency.
  4. Assemble and Serve:
    • Return the cooked chicken breast filets to the skillet, spooning the creamy Carbonara sauce over the top.
    • Allow the chicken to simmer in the sauce for a few minutes to soak up the flavors.
    • Serve the Chicken Parmesan Carbonara hot, garnished with additional grated Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley, if desired.

Cook’s Notes and Variations:

  • Add Some Heat: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce or sprinkle with cayenne pepper before serving.
  • Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken breast filets with breaded and fried eggplant slices for a delicious vegetarian twist on this dish.
  • Gluten-Free Variation: Use gluten-free flour or almond flour for dredging the chicken to make this recipe gluten-free-friendly.
  • Extra Creaminess: Stir in a splash of white wine or chicken broth to the sauce for added depth of flavor and creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast filets? A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs if you prefer. Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the thickness of the chicken thighs.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble them just before serving. Cook the chicken and sauce separately, then reheat and combine them when ready to serve.

Q: Is there a lighter version of this recipe? A: You can make a lighter version of Chicken Parmesan Carbonara by using turkey bacon or turkey sausage instead of traditional bacon, and substituting half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy whipping cream.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, you can freeze any leftover Chicken Parmesan Carbonara in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in a skillet or microwave.

Keto Version and Low-Carb Adaptation:

For those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, here’s a modified version of the recipe:

Keto Chicken Parmesan Carbonara:

  • Substitute almond flour or crushed pork rinds for the flour in the chicken dredge.
  • Replace the heavy whipping cream with unsweetened almond milk or coconut cream for a keto-friendly sauce.
  • Use cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of pasta to keep the dish low in carbs.
  • Omit the cornstarch mixture or use xanthan gum as a thickening agent for the sauce.

Treat yourself to the ultimate indulgence with our Chicken Parmesan Carbonara recipe – a delightful fusion of two classic Italian dishes. With its golden-brown chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy Carbonara sauce, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving a comforting meal, Chicken Parmesan Carbonara is guaranteed to satisfy your hunger and delight your taste buds. So, gather your ingredients and prepare to experience the luxurious flavors of this gourmet masterpiece!