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Cajun Chicken Carbonara

Serves 4

25 min

Cajun Chicken Carbonara

Recipe GLPR57de19a406d78b

0.0(0)
Cajun
Main Course
25 min
Servings: 4
Stovetop
SNAP eligible

A fusion of classic Italian carbonara and bold Cajun flavors, this pasta dish features tender chicken and crispy bacon tossed with eggs, parmesan, and spicy seasonings. The creamy sauce coats each strand of pasta for a satisfying, restaurant-quality meal ready in under 30 minutes.

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Ingredients

8 ounces pasta (linguine, fettuccine, or penne)

4 ounces bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts

2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning, divided

1 clove garlic, minced

2 large eggs

1/2 cup grated Parmigiano Reggiano (Parmesan)

Freshly cracked black pepper to taste

Directions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.

  2. While the pasta cooks, pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning.

  3. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the bacon pieces until crispy, about 5–7 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving about 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the skillet.

  4. In the same skillet, cook the seasoned chicken breasts over medium-high heat for 6–7 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Transfer to a cutting board and let rest for 2 minutes, then cut into bite-sized pieces.

  5. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Reduce heat to low.

  6. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, grated Parmesan, and remaining 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning.

  7. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the garlic and bacon fat. Remove from heat and pour the egg mixture over the pasta while tossing constantly. Add pasta water 1/4 cup at a time until the sauce is creamy and coats the pasta.

  8. Return the chicken pieces and crispy bacon to the skillet and toss gently to combine. Season with freshly cracked black pepper and serve immediately.