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Lemony Garlic Chicken Carbonara Pasta (High-Protein & Gluten-Free)

Lemony Garlic Chicken Carbonara Pasta (High-Protein & Gluten-Free)

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  • Author: Maria
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This creamy, zesty Lemony Garlic Chicken Carbonara Pasta is high in protein and gluten-free. Packed with juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and parmesan, it’s a fresh twist on the Italian classic that’s as comforting as it is energizing.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 10 oz. gluten-free brown rice spaghetti
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 egg yolks
  • 3/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 4 slices thick-cut no-sugar-added bacon, chopped
  • 1 pound chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt (for chicken)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest, divided
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh Italian parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente, reserve 1 cup pasta water, then drain.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together the egg, egg yolks, parmesan, salt, and black pepper. Set aside.
  3. In a skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving 1 tablespoon bacon fat in pan.
  4. Season chicken with salt, oregano, red pepper flakes, and half the lemon zest. Cook in same skillet until browned and cooked through. Add garlic, cook 1 minute, stir in lemon juice and remaining zest. Set aside.
  5. Return pasta to warm pot (off heat). Quickly add egg mixture, tossing well. Gradually stir in reserved pasta water until sauce is creamy.
  6. Stir in cooked chicken, garlic, and bacon. Toss to combine.
  7. Plate pasta, top with parsley, and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated parmesan for best texture and flavor.
  • Do not add the egg mixture over direct heat—toss pasta off the burner.
  • Use a splash of pasta water to revive leftovers when reheating.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 510
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 670mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 38g
  • Cholesterol: 195mg