Creamy Chicken and Pea Carbonara Pasta

creamy chicken pappardelle

This creamy chicken and pea carbonara pasta is a healthier take on the traditional Italian favourite.

Made with high-protein chickpea pasta, tender chicken, peas, parmesan, and a light creamy lemon sauce, this dish is rich, comforting, and perfect for an easy weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • High in protein and fibre
  • Lighter than traditional carbonara
  • Quick and easy dinner
  • Packed with fresh vegetables
  • Great for busy weeknights

Ingredients

  • Chickpea spirals pasta
  • Frozen peas
  • Sugar snap peas
  • Extra virgin olive oil
  • Chicken breast fillet
  • Truss cherry tomatoes
  • Garlic
  • Chilli flakes
  • Lemon rind
  • Egg
  • Cooking cream
  • Fresh lemon juice
  • Parmesan
  • Baby rocket

How to Make Chicken Carbonara Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Cook chickpea pasta until al dente.

Add frozen peas and sugar snap peas during the final minutes of cooking.

Reserve some pasta water before draining.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a frying pan.

Cook chicken and cherry tomatoes until the chicken is cooked through and tomatoes soften.

Add:

  • Garlic
  • Chilli flakes
  • Lemon rind

Cook until fragrant.

Step 3: Prepare the Carbonara Sauce

Whisk together:

  • Egg
  • Cooking cream
  • Lemon juice
  • Half the parmesan

until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the chicken mixture and sauce to the hot pasta.

Toss quickly to coat evenly, adding reserved pasta water if needed.

Stir through the rocket.

Step 5: Serve

Top with remaining parmesan and serve immediately.

Tips for the Best Carbonara Pasta

  • Toss the sauce quickly while the pasta is hot
  • Avoid overheating to prevent scrambled eggs
  • Reserve pasta water for a silky sauce
  • Fresh lemon brightens the creamy flavour
  • Chickpea pasta adds extra protein and fibre

Serving Suggestions

This pasta pairs well with:

  • Garlic bread
  • Simple green salad
  • Roasted vegetables
  • Extra parmesan and cracked pepper

Storage Tips

  • Refrigerate leftovers for up to 2 days
  • Reheat gently to keep the sauce creamy
  • Best enjoyed fresh

Recipe Variations

More Vegetables

Add spinach, asparagus, or zucchini.

Extra Heat

Increase chilli flakes.

Classic Version

Use regular pasta instead of chickpea pasta.

Final Thoughts

This creamy chicken and pea carbonara pasta delivers all the comfort of a traditional carbonara with a lighter, healthier twist. It’s quick, satisfying, and packed with fresh flavour, making it perfect for easy family dinners.

Leave a Comment

Discover more from Abel Prasad

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Continue reading