Creamy Chicken and Pea Carbonara Pasta
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.
