Lazy Day Chicken Carbonara Skillet

### **Instructions:**

#### **Step 1: Cook the Pasta**
1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the **pasta** and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain the pasta, reserving about **1/2 cup of pasta water** for later, and set the pasta aside. This will help add some extra flavor and creaminess to your sauce.

#### **Step 2: Cook the Bacon**
1. While the pasta is cooking, heat **1 tablespoon of olive oil** in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped **bacon** and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside. Leave a little bacon grease in the pan for extra flavor.

#### **Step 3: Sauté the Chicken**
1. In the same skillet, add another **tablespoon of olive oil** if needed and increase the heat to medium-high. Add the **chicken pieces**, seasoning them with **salt** and **pepper**.
2. Cook the chicken for about **5-6 minutes**, or until browned and cooked through, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside with the bacon.

#### **Step 4: Make the Creamy Carbonara Sauce**
1. In the same skillet, add the minced **garlic** and cook for about **30 seconds**, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
2. Pour in the **chicken broth** and bring it to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet for added flavor.
3. Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the **heavy cream**. Stir to combine, then add the **Parmesan** and **mozzarella** cheeses, stirring until the cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
4. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.

#### **Step 5: Combine and Finish**
1. Return the cooked **chicken** and **bacon** to the skillet, stirring to combine.
2. Add the cooked **pasta** to the skillet, tossing everything together to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.
3. If you like a little extra richness, feel free to add more cheese or a splash of cream!

#### **Step 6: Garnish and Serve**
1. Garnish your skillet with **chopped parsley** for a fresh touch, and serve hot. Enjoy your **Lazy Day Chicken Carbonara Skillet** with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad to complete the meal.

### **Why This Chicken Carbonara Skillet Works:**

– **Creamy Comfort**: The heavy cream and cheese create a luscious, creamy sauce that coats the chicken and pasta, providing the indulgent flavor of a traditional carbonara without all the complexity.
– **One-Pan Wonder**: Cooking everything in one skillet not only simplifies the process but also ensures all the ingredients absorb the rich flavors of the bacon and chicken.
– **Customizable**: You can add extra veggies like spinach, peas, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor. Or, swap out the chicken for **shrimp**, **sausage**, or even **tofu** for a vegetarian version.
– **Quick & Satisfying**: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for those busy nights when you want something comforting but don’t have a lot of time to cook.

### **Serving Ideas:**

– **With a Side Salad**: Pair this creamy chicken carbonara with a simple green salad to balance out the richness of the dish.
– **Garlic Bread or Toast**: Serve with a side of warm garlic bread to soak up the delicious carbonara sauce.
– **Roasted Vegetables**: A side of roasted broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus would complement the creamy pasta perfectly.

### **Storage Tips:**

– **Refrigeration**: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to **3 days**. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or chicken broth to bring the sauce back to life.
– **Freezing**: While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the leftovers for up to **2 months**. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.

### **Conclusion:**

The **Lazy Day Chicken Carbonara Skillet** is the ultimate weeknight dinner — it’s quick, creamy, and packed with flavor, making it the perfect meal for when you want something indulgent but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. With the richness of the carbonara sauce, the savory taste of chicken and bacon, and the comfort of pasta, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your household. Plus, with minimal cleanup, you’ll have more time to relax and enjoy your meal. So next time you’re craving a hearty, satisfying dinner, reach for this simple yet delicious recipe and enjoy every creamy bite!