Name: Eggless Chicken Carbonara Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: For Chicken:; 2 large chicken breasts; 2 tbsp flour; 3 tbsp parmesan cheese; 1 tsp salt; cracked pepper; For Sauce:; 1 tbsp olive oil; 2 tsp butter; 8 oz Bacon; 1 small onion; 6 large garlic cloves; 1½ cups half and half; ½ cup parmesan cheese; ½ tsp cornstarch slurry

This eggless chicken carbonara offers a rich and creamy alternative to the traditional Italian pasta dish. Infused with the savory flavors of bacon and garlic, this comforting meal is perfect for those who want to enjoy a hearty dinner without using any eggs.

Photos of Eggless Chicken Carbonara Recipe

One ingredient you might not commonly find at home is half and half. This mixture of equal parts milk and cream adds a luxurious texture to the dish. Make sure to grab some parmesan cheese as well; its sharp, nutty flavor is essential for authentic carbonara taste. Lastly, a small amount of cornstarch helps to thicken the sauce.

Ingredients For Eggless Chicken Carbonara

Chicken breasts: The main protein, provides a hearty base for the dish.

Flour: Used for dredging the chicken, adds a light coating that helps it brown.

Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, savory flavor to both the chicken and the sauce.

Salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing flavors.

Pepper: Adds a touch of heat and depth to the dish.

Olive oil: Helps in frying the chicken, adds a rich flavor.

Butter: Used with olive oil for frying, adds a creamy texture and flavor.

Bacon: Adds a smoky, salty element to the sauce.

Onion: Provides a sweet and savory base to the sauce.

Garlic: Infuses the dish with aromatic flavor.

Half and half: Creates a rich and creamy sauce.

Cornstarch slurry: Helps thicken the sauce, ensuring a smooth texture.

One reader, Fredric Miller says:

This eggless chicken carbonara recipe is a delightful twist on a classic! The creamy sauce, crispy bacon, and perfectly cooked chicken make it a hit. Easy to follow and absolutely delicious. Highly recommend!

Fredric Miller

Essential Techniques for Crafting Eggless Chicken Carbonara

How to dredge chicken: Coat the seasoned chicken in the flour mixture, ensuring an even layer, then shake off any excess flour. How to fry chicken: Heat oil and butter in a pan, then cook the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked on each side. How to fry bacon: Cook the bacon strips in a pan until they become crispy, then drain off excess fat. How to make a cornstarch slurry: Mix cornstarch with a small amount of cold water until it forms a smooth paste.

How To Make Eggless Chicken Carbonara

Try this creamy and flavorful eggless chicken carbonara for dinner tonight! It’s a light and flavorful meal that takes no time to make.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Chicken:

2large chicken breasts,boneless, skinless, halved horizontally to make 4 fillets
2tbspflour
3tbspparmesan cheese,fresh, finely grated
1tspsalt
cracked pepper

For Sauce:

1tbspolive oil
2tspbutter
8ozbacon
1small onion,chopped
6large garlic cloves,minced or finely chopped
1½cupshalf and half
½cupparmesan cheese,fresh, finely grated
½tspcornstarch slurry

Instructions

Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
In a shallow bowl, combine the flour and parmesan cheese.
Dredge the seasoned chicken in the flour mixture, then shake off the excess and set aside.
Heat the oil and butter in a large non stick pan over medium-high heat until the butter has melted and the pan is hot.
Fry the chicken until golden and cooked through on each side. Transfer onto a warm plate.
Add the bacon strips to the pan, then fry until crispy. Drain off some excess fat, keeping about 1 teaspoon worth in the pan.
Add the onion and garlic, then fry until the onion is transparent.
Reduce the heat to low heat, then add the half and half. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then season with a little salt and pepper to taste.
Add in the parmesan cheese, then allow the sauce to simmer until the parmesan cheese has melted slightly.
Toss the chicken back into the pan, serve with steamed vegetables or rice, and enjoy!

Recipe Notes

If the sauce is too runny, add the cornstarch slurry into the center of the pan, mix through fast to combine into the sauce. It will begin to thicken immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 724.50kcal
Fat: 55.02g
Saturated Fat: 22.84g
Trans Fat: 0.27g
Monounsaturated Fat: 21.95g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 6.80g
Carbohydrates: 13.46g
Fiber: 0.81g
Sugar: 5.51g
Protein: 42.85g
Cholesterol: 163.06mg
Sodium: 835.36mg
Calcium: 435.73mg
Potassium: 566.11mg
Iron: 1.63mg
Vitamin A: 189.70µg
Vitamin C: 4.45mg

Crucial Technique Tips for Perfecting Eggless Chicken Carbonara

When frying the chicken, ensure the pan is hot enough before adding the meat. This will help achieve a golden, crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy. To test if the pan is ready, sprinkle a few drops of water; if they sizzle and evaporate immediately, the pan is hot enough.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Chicken Carbonara Recipe

Prepare ingredients in advance: Chop the onion and garlic ahead of time and store them in the fridge.

Use pre-cooked bacon: Save time by using pre-cooked bacon that only needs a quick reheat.

Flatten chicken breasts: Flatten the chicken breasts for quicker and more even cooking.

Measure out spices: Pre-measure the flour, parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper to streamline the cooking process.

Make cornstarch slurry ahead: Prepare the cornstarch slurry in advance and keep it ready to use.

Substitute Ingredients For Eggless Chicken Carbonara Recipe

Chicken breasts - Substitute with tofu: Tofu provides a similar texture and can absorb flavors well, making it a great plant-based alternative.
Flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch can be used as a thickening agent and provides a gluten-free option.
Parmesan cheese - Substitute with nutritional yeast: Nutritional yeast offers a cheesy flavor and is a vegan alternative.
Salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a depth of flavor and umami, reducing the need for additional salt.
Cracked pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar heat but with a slightly different flavor profile.
Olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it a good alternative for cooking.
Butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine is a plant-based alternative that can mimic the richness of butter.
Bacon - Substitute with tempeh bacon: Tempeh bacon offers a smoky flavor and a similar texture, suitable for a vegetarian option.
Onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a milder and slightly sweeter flavor compared to onions.
Garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used when fresh garlic is not available, though it has a more concentrated flavor.
Half and half - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk provides a creamy texture and is a dairy-free alternative.
Parmesan cheese - Substitute with vegan parmesan: Vegan parmesan offers a similar cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Cornstarch slurry - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder can be used as a thickening agent and is a good alternative to cornstarch.

How to Beautifully Present Eggless Chicken Carbonara

Serve smaller portion sizes: Slice the chicken breasts into elegant, bite-sized medallions. This ensures each piece is perfectly cooked and allows for a refined presentation.
Use decoration: Garnish the plate with finely chopped parsley and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for a touch of color and sophistication.
Layer the elements: Place a bed of sautéed spinach or arugula on the plate first, then arrange the chicken medallions on top. This adds height and visual interest.
Drizzle the sauce: Instead of pouring the carbonara sauce over the chicken, use a spoon to artistically drizzle it around the plate. This keeps the dish clean and elegant.
Add texture: Include a crispy element like toasted breadcrumbs or fried shallots sprinkled over the top for added crunch and contrast.
Highlight the bacon: Place a few pieces of the crispy bacon strategically around the plate to showcase its importance in the dish.
Use microgreens: Finish with a small handful of microgreens for a fresh, vibrant touch that adds both flavor and visual appeal.
Serve with a side: Accompany the dish with a small portion of steamed vegetables or a delicate rice pilaf to balance the richness of the carbonara sauce.
Clean the plate: Ensure the edges of the plate are spotless before serving. Use a clean cloth to wipe away any drips or smudges for a pristine presentation.
Add a final touch: Finish with a light dusting of freshly cracked black pepper and a few shavings of parmesan cheese for an aromatic and visually appealing garnish.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Chicken Carbonara Without Eggs

Shallow bowl: Used to combine the flour and parmesan cheese for dredging the chicken.
Large non-stick pan: Essential for frying the chicken, bacon, and preparing the sauce.
Tongs: Handy for flipping the chicken and bacon while frying.
Measuring spoons: Necessary for accurately measuring ingredients like flour, parmesan cheese, salt, and cornstarch slurry.
Measuring cups: Used to measure the half and half and parmesan cheese for the sauce.
Knife: Required for chopping the onion and garlic.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping the onion and garlic.
Spatula: Useful for stirring the sauce and ensuring it doesn't stick to the pan.
Plate: Used to transfer the cooked chicken to a warm place while preparing the sauce.
Small bowl: Needed for preparing the cornstarch slurry.
Whisk: Helps in mixing the cornstarch slurry to ensure it's smooth and lump-free.
Paper towels: Useful for draining excess fat from the bacon.

Storing and Freezing Eggless Chicken Carbonara: A Guide

Allow the chicken carbonara to cool completely before storing or freezing.
For storing in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled carbonara to an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
If you plan to freeze the carbonara, follow these steps:
- Divide the cooled carbonara into individual serving portions.
- Place each portion into a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag. Squeeze out any excess air if using bags.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Freeze the chicken carbonara for up to 2-3 months for optimal quality and flavor.
To reheat the frozen carbonara:
- Thaw the desired portion in the refrigerator overnight.
- Transfer the thawed carbonara to a saucepan or skillet.
- Reheat over low to medium heat, stirring gently, until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of half and half or milk to help loosen the sauce if it appears too thick.
- Avoid reheating the carbonara on high heat, as it may cause the sauce to separate or become grainy.
Note: The texture of the reheated carbonara may be slightly different from when it was freshly made, but the flavor should still be delicious.

The Best Methods for Reheating Leftover Chicken Carbonara

Reheat the chicken carbonara in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring gently to evenly distribute the heat and prevent the sauce from separating. Add a splash of half and half or milk if needed to restore the creamy consistency.
For a quick and easy method, place the leftover carbonara in a microwave-safe dish and heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until it reaches the desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the sauce to separate.
If you have an oven-safe skillet, you can reheat the chicken carbonara in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), place the skillet with the leftover carbonara inside, and heat for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
For a crispy twist, spread the leftover carbonara in a baking dish, sprinkle some extra parmesan cheese and a handful of breadcrumbs on top, and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the dish is heated through.
If you have a sous vide machine, you can reheat the chicken carbonara by placing it in a sealed bag and submerging it in a water bath set to 150°F (65°C) for about 15 minutes. This method ensures even heating and maintains the original texture of the dish.

Surprising Facts About Eggless Chicken Carbonara

A unique aspect of this eggless chicken carbonara recipe is that it uses half and half instead of traditional cream, making it a lighter alternative while still maintaining a rich and creamy texture.

Is Making Chicken Carbonara at Home Cost-Effective?

This eggless chicken carbonara recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like chicken breasts, bacon, and parmesan cheese are relatively affordable and can be found in most grocery stores. The use of half and half and onion adds a creamy texture without breaking the bank. Overall, the approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20-$25 USD. Given its delicious taste and affordability, I would rate this recipe an 8 out of 10.

Is This Chicken Carbonara Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

The eggless chicken carbonara recipe, while undeniably delicious, leans more towards the unhealthy side due to several factors:

The use of flour and parmesan cheese for coating the chicken adds extra calories and carbs to the dish
Bacon, although providing a crispy texture and smoky flavor, is high in saturated fat and sodium
Half and half, a mixture of whole milk and cream, contributes to the dish's high fat content
The generous amount of parmesan cheese in the sauce further increases the fat and sodium levels

However, this recipe can be tweaked to make it healthier without compromising on taste:

Opt for skinless, boneless chicken breasts to reduce the overall fat content
Instead of flour and parmesan cheese coating, season the chicken with herbs and spices like garlic powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning
Replace bacon with turkey bacon or lean prosciutto to cut down on saturated fat
Swap half and half with a lighter alternative like low-fat milk or evaporated skim milk
Reduce the amount of parmesan cheese in the sauce and sprinkle a small amount on top for garnish
Incorporate more vegetables into the dish, such as sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes, to boost the nutrient profile and add volume without extra calories

Our Editor's Honest Opinion on This Eggless Chicken Carbonara Recipe

This eggless chicken carbonara recipe offers a delightful twist on a classic dish. The combination of crispy bacon, tender chicken, and a creamy parmesan sauce creates a rich and satisfying flavor profile. The use of half and half instead of heavy cream keeps the sauce light yet indulgent. However, incorporating a cornstarch slurry could help achieve a silkier texture. Serving with steamed vegetables or rice adds a balanced touch. Overall, it's a well-rounded and flavorful dish that maintains the essence of carbonara while being accessible to those avoiding eggs.

Enhance Your Eggless Chicken Carbonara Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Imagine the creamy, buttery goodness of mashed potatoes, but with a garlicky twist that perfectly complements the rich flavors of the chicken carbonara. The smooth texture and subtle garlic aroma will make every bite a delight.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: These vegetables are roasted to perfection, bringing out their natural sweetness, and then drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze. The slight bitterness of the Brussels sprouts pairs wonderfully with the creamy carbonara sauce.

Caprese Salad: Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil come together in this classic Italian salad. A drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt and pepper make this a refreshing and light side that balances the richness of the carbonara.

Butternut Squash Soup: Butternut Squash Soup: This velvety soup is a perfect starter. The natural sweetness of the butternut squash is enhanced with a hint of nutmeg and cinnamon, creating a warm and comforting dish that sets the stage for the main course.

Garlic Bread: Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, this bread is slathered with a garlic butter mixture and baked to golden perfection. It's the ideal companion to soak up every last drop of the luscious carbonara sauce.

Delicious Alternatives to Eggless Chicken Carbonara

Creamy Garlic Chicken: Indulge in this rich and flavorful dish where tender chicken breasts are smothered in a creamy garlic sauce. Perfectly paired with mashed potatoes or a side of steamed vegetables, this recipe is a comfort food classic.

Chicken Alfredo: Experience the ultimate comfort food with this creamy pasta dish. Juicy chicken breasts are combined with a luscious Alfredo sauce made from butter, cream, and parmesan cheese. Serve over fettuccine for a meal that feels like a warm hug.

Chicken Marsala: Savor the flavors of Italy with this elegant dish. Chicken breasts are cooked to perfection and then simmered in a Marsala wine sauce with mushrooms. Serve with pasta or mashed potatoes for a restaurant-quality meal at home.

Chicken Piccata: Brighten up your dinner table with this zesty dish. Chicken breasts are lightly dredged in flour, then cooked in a tangy lemon and capers sauce. Pair with angel hair pasta or rice for a delightful meal.

Chicken Florentine: Delight in this sophisticated dish where chicken breasts are nestled in a creamy spinach and garlic sauce. Serve over pasta or with a side of crusty bread to soak up every last drop of the delicious sauce.

Perfect Appetizers and Desserts to Complement This Chicken Carbonara Recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your appetizer game with these Stuffed Mushrooms. Start by selecting large, fresh mushrooms and remove their stems. Create a savory filling using cream cheese, garlic, and finely chopped herbs. Add a touch of parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor. Bake until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is golden brown. Serve warm, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

Bruschetta: Transport your guests to Italy with a classic Bruschetta. Start with slices of toasted baguette, rubbed with garlic and drizzled with olive oil. Top with a mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and a hint of balsamic vinegar. Finish with a sprinkle of sea salt and cracked pepper. Serve immediately for a burst of fresh, vibrant flavors.

Desserts:

Tiramisu: Imagine layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers interspersed with a luscious mascarpone cream. The rich coffee flavor melds perfectly with the creamy texture, creating a dessert that's both sophisticated and indulgent. Top it off with a dusting of cocoa powder for a touch of bitterness that balances the sweetness. This dessert is perfect for those who appreciate the finer things in life and want to end their meal on a high note.

Panna Cotta: Envision a silky smooth custard that's both light and creamy, infused with the delicate aroma of vanilla bean. This Italian classic is set with just the right amount of gelatin to give it a perfect wobble. Serve it with a fresh berry compote or a drizzle of caramel sauce to add a burst of flavor and color. It's an elegant dessert that looks as good as it tastes, making it an ideal choice for any special occasion.

Why trust this Eggless Chicken Carbonara Recipe:

This eggless chicken carbonara recipe is a delightful twist on the classic dish, ensuring a rich and creamy flavor without the use of eggs. The combination of crispy bacon, tender chicken, and a luscious parmesan cheese sauce guarantees a satisfying meal. The step-by-step instructions are straightforward, making it accessible for both novice and experienced cooks. Trust in the quality ingredients and the well-balanced flavors to deliver a delicious and comforting dish every time.

Want to share your experience making this Eggless Chicken Carbonara Recipe? Join the discussion in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know how it turned out!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of meat instead of chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with turkey, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure your protein is cooked through.

What can I use instead of half and half?

If you don't have half and half, you can use a mixture of equal parts milk and heavy cream. Alternatively, you can use just milk for a lighter sauce or just heavy cream for a richer one.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

If the sauce isn't thick enough for your liking, you can add a cornstarch slurry. Mix ½ teaspoon of cornstarch with a little water, then stir it into the sauce and let it simmer until it thickens.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge, then reheat and combine them just before serving. The sauce might thicken in the fridge, so you may need to add a splash of milk or half and half when reheating.

What can I serve with this chicken carbonara?

This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or pasta. You can also serve it with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.