Keto Chicken Carbonara

This Keto Chicken Carbonara brings together creamy, cheesy goodness with tender chicken and crispy bacon—all without the carbs. It’s a keto twist on the classic Italian pasta dish, perfect for a cozy, low-carb dinner. With zucchini noodles or simply as-is, this recipe will satisfy any pasta craving while keeping you on track with your keto goals.

Kickstart your keto journey today with our Keto Diet Plan for Beginners: Step-by-Step Guide! Packed with expert tips and practical strategies, this easy-to-follow plan is designed to boost your energy, enhance your focus, and unlock the incredible benefits of a low-carb lifestyle. Begin your transformation now!

My Personal Experience

This Keto Chicken Carbonara has quickly become one of my favorite low-carb meals. The creamy sauce, crispy bacon, and tender chicken all come together so well. I especially love it with zucchini noodles, but it’s just as delicious on its own. It’s a rich, comforting dish that feels indulgent but is totally keto-friendly!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy, cheesy, savory, and just the right amount of comfort food—this Keto Chicken Carbonara has it all. Plus, with zucchini noodles or no noodles at all, it’s a perfect low-carb alternative that doesn’t compromise on flavor. Whether you’re on a keto diet or simply looking for a delicious, easy dinner, this dish hits the spot.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Large Skillet: This is your go-to for cooking the bacon, chicken, and zucchini noodles. A good non-stick or well-seasoned skillet makes all the difference—it keeps everything from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. I swear by mine for recipes like this!
• Whisk: Perfect for blending the egg, cream, and Parmesan cheese into a silky carbonara sauce. Trust me, a good whisk can take your sauce game to the next level—it’s one of those tools I never knew I needed until I got one.
• Tongs or Spatula: These are lifesavers for flipping the chicken and mixing everything together in the skillet. They’re gentle enough to handle the zucchini noodles without breaking them apart but sturdy enough to manage the chicken. You’ll wonder how you ever cooked without them!

Ingredients & Substitutions:

• 1 lb chicken breast, sliced thinly: Chicken breast provides lean protein, but you can substitute with chicken thighs for a juicier option.
• 4 slices bacon, chopped: Bacon adds a crispy, savory flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, try pancetta or turkey bacon as alternatives.
• 2 large eggs: Eggs form the base of the creamy sauce. No substitution recommended, but you can use egg whites for a lower-fat version.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream: Heavy cream makes the sauce rich and creamy. You can swap it with half-and-half or coconut cream for a lighter or dairy-free alternative.
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese: Parmesan cheese adds a savory depth. Pecorino Romano or Asiago can be used as substitutes if needed.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: These are essential for seasoning. Feel free to adjust based on your preference.
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder: Garlic powder brings a subtle flavor. Fresh garlic can be used for a more intense taste.
• 2 cups zucchini noodles: Zucchini noodles are a low-carb alternative to pasta. You can substitute with shirataki noodles, spaghetti squash, or even cauliflower rice.
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional): Parsley adds color and freshness. You can skip this or use basil or thyme for variation.

Cooking Instructions: From Prep to Plate

1. Cook the Bacon
   In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Transfer the cooked bacon to a plate lined with paper towels, leaving the bacon fat in the skillet.
2. Cook the Chicken
   In the same skillet with the bacon fat, add the thinly sliced chicken. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside with the bacon.
3. Prepare the Carbonara Sauce
   In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, and parmesan cheese until well-combined. Set aside.
4. Cook the Zucchini Noodles
   Add the zucchini noodles to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes until they soften slightly. Be careful not to overcook, as they can release too much water.
5. Combine Everything
   Turn the heat to low, then return the chicken and bacon to the skillet with the zucchini noodles. Slowly pour the egg and cream mixture over the ingredients, stirring constantly to coat everything in the creamy sauce. Keep stirring for about 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly. (Be careful not to let the eggs scramble; low heat and constant stirring will help.)
6. Serve
   Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy this rich, creamy, and comforting Keto Chicken Carbonara!

Expert Tips for Making This Dish Even Better

• Don’t Overcook the Zucchini Noodles: To avoid a watery dish, keep the noodles slightly crisp and avoid overcooking.
• Low Heat for the Sauce: When adding the egg and cream mixture, low heat is key to prevent the eggs from scrambling. Stir constantly to create a smooth, creamy sauce.
• Add Extra Flavor: For a twist, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of Italian seasoning.

Best Ways to Store and Enjoy Later

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently. Avoid microwaving, as it may scramble the sauce.

Got Questions? Find Your Answers Here!

1. Can I use other types of noodles?
Yes, you can use other keto-friendly options like shirataki noodles or spaghetti squash.

2. Can I substitute the heavy cream?
For a lighter option, use half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk. The texture may vary slightly.

3. Can I skip the bacon?
Sure! The bacon adds extra flavor, but you can leave it out or replace it with pancetta for a similar taste.

Nutritional Value (per serving, based on 4 servings)

• Calories: 340
• Fat: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 27g

Was This Recipe a Hit? We’d Love to Hear From You!

We’d love to hear how your recipe turned out! 💬 Share your thoughts in the comments below! 😊 Looking for more tasty keto recipes and tips to keep your low-carb journey on track? Join us on Facebook and be part of our community. Don’t forget to bookmark our site for quick access to all your keto favorites. New to keto? Kickstart your journey with our Keto Diet Plan for Beginners: Step-by-Step Guide!