Keto Chicken Carbonara: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Name: Keto Chicken Carbonara
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces; 0.5 tsp garlic powder; 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled; 1 tbsp bacon grease; 0.5 cup chopped onion; 2 tsp minced garlic; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 beaten egg (optional) (adds creaminess to the sauce); 0.33 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1 tbsp fresh chopped basil; 2 cups fresh spinach

Introduction to Keto Chicken Carbonara

Are you looking for a delicious and satisfying meal that won’t derail your ketogenic diet? Look no further than Keto Chicken Carbonara! This creamy and flavorful dish is a twist on the classic carbonara, using tender chicken and savory ingredients that make it a perfect dinner option. Whether you’re a keto veteran or just starting, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

A Personal Story Behind My Keto Chicken Carbonara Journey

As someone who has embraced the keto lifestyle, I remember the struggle of finding meals that were both satisfying and aligned with my dietary goals. One evening, craving a comforting pasta dish, I decided to create a keto-friendly version. After experimenting with various ingredients, I landed on this delightful Keto Chicken Carbonara that my whole family now loves. It’s not just a meal; it’s a reminder that you can enjoy delicious food while staying healthy!

What Makes This Keto Chicken Carbonara Recipe Special?

This Keto Chicken Carbonara stands out because it combines the rich flavors of traditional carbonara with the health benefits of a low-carb lifestyle. By using chicken thighs instead of pasta, heavy cream for creaminess, and flavorful seasonings, this dish not only satisfies your cravings but also keeps you on track with your health goals. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal weeknight dinner!

The Full Keto Chicken Carbonara Recipe

Ingredients

2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
½ tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
1 tbsp bacon grease
½ cup chopped onion
2 tsp minced garlic
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 beaten egg (optional)
⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 tbsp fresh chopped basil
2-3 cups fresh spinach

Instructions

Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy, then crumble it into pieces. Set aside.

In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of bacon grease and heat over medium-high. This adds great flavor to your chicken!
Season the chicken thighs with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Sauté in the skillet until fully cooked, approximately 7-10 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside.

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté until tender, about 3-4 minutes. This will enhance the overall flavor of your dish.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter!
Pour in the heavy whipping cream and chicken broth, scraping the bits off the bottom of the skillet to incorporate all the flavors. Bring to a gentle simmer.

OPTIONAL: In a small bowl, beat the egg. Slowly add a small amount of the sauce to the egg while whisking vigorously. This prevents the egg from scrambling. Once half the sauce is mixed in, pour the egg mixture back into the skillet while whisking. This step adds creaminess to your sauce.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, chopped basil, and Italian seasoning until well combined.
Add the crumbled bacon and fresh spinach to the skillet. Cook until the spinach wilts, about 2-3 minutes.

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
Let everything simmer together for an additional 3-5 minutes to meld the flavors, then serve warm.

Serving Suggestions and Variations for Keto Chicken Carbonara

This dish can be served on its own or alongside a fresh green salad for a complete meal. For added flavor, consider topping with more grated Parmesan or fresh herbs. You could also swap out the spinach for other greens like kale or arugula, or even add mushrooms for an earthy touch. If you want a kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the dish even further!

Frequently Asked Questions About Keto Chicken Carbonara

Can I use turkey bacon? Yes, turkey bacon is a great alternative if you want a lighter version of this dish.

Is the egg necessary? No, the egg is optional but adds creaminess to the sauce. You can omit it if you prefer.

Can I meal prep this dish? Absolutely! This Keto Chicken Carbonara stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently to avoid separating the sauce.

No alcoholic drinks allowed, please substitute with a non-alcoholic option.

Recipe Stats

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Calories per Serving: 380
Servings: 6