Creamy Chicken Carbonara with Bacon & Peas

Creamy, rich, and comforting — this Chicken Carbonara with bow tie pasta brings together all the elements of a satisfying meal: tender chicken breast, crispy bacon, sweet peas, and a velvety parmesan cream sauce. It’s one of those easy chicken dinners that feels both indulgent and balanced. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight meal or an impressive dish for guests, this carbonara recipe delivers.

Looking for more cream-based pasta dinners? Check out this creamy chicken pasta from AllRecipes that also incorporates parmesan and bacon magic in every bite.

Table of Contents

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

2–4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp olive oil

For the Pasta:

16 oz bow tie pasta (farfalle)
Salted water for boiling

For the Carbonara Sauce:

5 strips of bacon, chopped
1–2 cups sweet peas (fresh or frozen)
3 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 cup chicken broth
3/4 cup milk
1/4 cup heavy cream
3/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
Optional: minced garlic, red pepper flakes

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the Chicken

Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat.
Sear the chicken for 5–7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
Remove from the skillet and let rest. Slice before serving.

3. Crisp the Bacon

In the same skillet, cook chopped bacon until crispy.
Remove bacon and set aside, reserving 1–2 tbsp of bacon fat.

4. Make the Cream Sauce

To the skillet with the bacon fat, whisk in flour to form a roux.
Slowly pour in chicken broth, milk, and heavy cream, whisking continuously.
Simmer until the sauce thickens (about 5–8 minutes).
Stir in shredded Parmesan cheese, then add peas and crispy bacon.

5. Combine Everything

Add cooked pasta into the sauce.
Toss until well coated. Add reserved pasta water if needed to loosen sauce.
Top with sliced chicken breast.
Garnish with cracked pepper, extra parmesan, and parsley.

Tips & Variations

Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Searing and resting the chicken ensures it stays juicy inside.
Use Fresh Parmesan: For a creamier melt and sharper flavor.
Make It Lighter: Use whole milk or half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Add a Kick: A pinch of chili flakes or black pepper brings warmth to the creamy sauce.
Try Other Pasta: Penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine work perfectly with carbonara sauce.

For more creamy comfort food, try Delish’s bacon pasta carbonara or this veggie-loaded option from EatingWell.

Storage & Reheating

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Not recommended as the cream sauce may separate.
Reheating: Use a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of milk or broth to bring the sauce back to life.

Time & Yield

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4–6 portions

Tools You’ll Need

Large pot for pasta
Deep skillet or sauté pan
Whisk
Tongs
Knife and cutting board
Cheese grater (for fresh Parmesan)

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Final Thoughts

This Chicken Carbonara is a beautiful combination of classic Italian flavor and American comfort food. The bacon and parmesan sauce coat every bow tie with richness, while peas add color and sweetness. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a meal for entertaining, it’s simple enough to make, yet fancy enough to impress.

Looking for more recipes that combine protein, pasta, and creamy sauces? Explore dozens of chicken-based dinners at tinsuf.com or dive into a world of pasta comfort at Tasty and AllRecipes.