There’s so much to adore about Lazy Day Chicken Carbonara Skillet. Here’s why it’s a must-try:

1. One-Pan Wonder : Minimal cleanup makes this recipe perfect for lazy days or busy nights.
2. Creamy and Cheesy : The sauce is rich, indulgent, and packed with flavor.
3. Quick and Easy : Ready in under 30 minutes—ideal for weeknight dinners.
4. Customizable : Add veggies, spices, or toppings to suit your taste.
5. Comfort Food Vibes : The combination of pasta, chicken, and cheese is pure cozy goodness.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The secret to this skillet lies in its simple yet indulgent combination of ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Skillet:

• 8 oz spaghetti (or your favorite pasta)
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 slices bacon (chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to whip up this creamy, cheesy skillet? Follow these easy steps:

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the chopped bacon. Cook until crispy, about 5–7 minutes.
2. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon grease in the skillet for added flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the chicken pieces to the skillet with the bacon grease.
2. Season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5–6 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside with the bacon.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

1. In the same skillet, add the spaghetti and enough water to cover it by about 1 inch. Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the pasta for 8–10 minutes, or until al dente, reducing the heat as needed to maintain a simmer. If the water evaporates too quickly, add a splash more.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream (if using). Set aside.
2. Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low and drain off any excess water, leaving just a small amount in the skillet.

Step 5: Combine Everything

1. Slowly pour the egg mixture into the skillet with the pasta, stirring constantly to create a creamy sauce. The residual heat will cook the eggs without scrambling them.
2. Stir in the cooked chicken, bacon, and minced garlic. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
2. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

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Why This Recipe Works So Well

The magic of Lazy Day Chicken Carbonara Skillet lies in its simplicity and balance of flavors. The bacon adds smoky richness, while the chicken provides heartiness and protein. The creamy sauce, made from eggs and Parmesan, creates a luxurious texture without the need for heavy cream (though you can add it for extra indulgence). Cooking everything in one pan not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Together, these elements create a dish that’s as satisfying as it is practical—a true crowd-pleaser.

Variations to Try