Dinner made simple: step-by-step guide to making carbonara with jar sauce

Indulge in the creamy goodness of chicken carbonara without the hassle with our step-by-step guide using jar sauce. This quick and easy recipe will elevate your weeknight dinners to gourmet status.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 (16 ounce) jar Alfredo sauce
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Season the Chicken: Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown on all sides.
3. Add the Alfredo Sauce: Pour the Alfredo sauce into the skillet with the chicken and bring to a simmer.
4. Stir in the Parmesan: Gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
5. Add the Heavy Cream: Add the heavy cream to the sauce and stir to combine.
6. Simmer: Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
7. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, stir in the parsley, and serve immediately over pasta.

Variations:

• Add Vegetables: Sauté some chopped vegetables, such as broccoli, peas, or bell peppers, before adding the chicken to the skillet.
• Use a Different Sauce: If you don’t have Alfredo sauce, you can use a jar of white or pesto sauce instead.
• Add Bacon: For a smoky flavor, add some chopped bacon to the skillet before the chicken.
• Use Different Cheese: Swap out the Parmesan for another type of hard cheese, such as Asiago or Romano.

Tips:

• Use a Good Quality Jar Sauce: The quality of the jar sauce will directly affect the flavor of the dish. Choose a brand that you trust and that has a good reputation.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: The chicken should be cooked through but not dry. If it’s overcooked, it will become tough.
• Serve with Pasta: Chicken carbonara is traditionally served over pasta. Use any type of pasta that you like, such as spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine.

Benefits of Using Jar Sauce:

• Convenience: Jar sauces save time and effort, making them a great option for busy weeknights.
• Consistency: Jar sauces ensure a consistent flavor and texture every time.
• Flavor Variety: There are a wide variety of jar sauces available, so you can easily find one that suits your taste.
• Affordable: Jar sauces are generally affordable, making them a budget-friendly option.

Wrapping Up

Making chicken carbonara with jar sauce is a quick and easy way to create a delicious and satisfying meal. By following these steps and using our tips, you can impress your family and friends with this classic dish.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just be sure to thaw it completely before cooking.

Q: What type of pasta is best for carbonara?
A: Any type of pasta will work, but spaghetti, penne, and fettuccine are traditional choices.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. However, the chicken should be cooked fresh and added to the sauce just before serving.