Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Carbonara offers a delightful twist on the classic Italian dish, designed for effortless preparation in a slow cooker. This recipe combines succulent chicken, a rich creamy sauce, and savory flavors that are sure to please your taste buds. It’s an ideal choice for a comforting family dinner or a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds pork tenderloin, cubed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 3 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup butter
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare and Sear the Pork: Season the pork tenderloin cubes with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork until browned on all sides, about 4-5 minutes. Transfer the pork to the slow cooker.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat. Add fresh thyme leaves and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Sprinkle in flour and whisk continuously for another minute to create a roux.
- Add Chicken Broth and Mustard: Gradually whisk in chicken broth and Dijon mustard until smooth and thickened, about 2-3 minutes. Pour the sauce over the pork in the slow cooker.
- Cook Slow and Low: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 4-5 hours, until the pork is tender and thoroughly cooked.
- Finish and Serve: Stir in 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter until melted and blended into the sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish and Enjoy: Serve the creamy pork carbonara over pasta or rice, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations
- Creamy Texture: For a richer sauce, add 1/2 cup of heavy cream during the last hour of cooking.
- Additional Ingredients: Enhance the dish with diced onions, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added flavor and texture.
- Cheese Option: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese over the dish just before serving for a cheesy twist.
Keto and Low-Carb Options
- Low-Carb Version: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a low-carb thickener like xanthan gum or glucomannan powder.
- Keto-Friendly: Serve the creamy pork over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta or rice to reduce carbs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use chicken instead of pork in this recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken works well in this creamy carbonara recipe. You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or chicken breasts, cubed similarly to the pork tenderloin. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken may cook faster than pork in the slow cooker.
2. How can I make this dish more creamy?
To enhance the creaminess of the sauce, you can add heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk during the cooking process. Stir it in during the last hour of cooking to prevent curdling and to achieve a richer texture.
3. What side dishes pair well with Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Carbonara?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes:
- Pasta: Serve over fettuccine or linguine for a classic carbonara experience.
- Rice: White or brown rice complements the creamy sauce.
- Vegetables: Steamed broccoli, roasted asparagus, or a simple green salad are excellent choices.
4. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftover creamy chicken carbonara in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to refresh the sauce if needed.
5. How can I adjust the seasoning to my taste?
Feel free to adjust the seasoning in this recipe to suit your preferences. If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the sauce. You can also increase the garlic powder or add fresh minced garlic for a stronger garlic flavor.
In conclusion, Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Carbonara offers a comforting and satisfying meal option that’s perfect for any day of the week. Its creamy sauce, tender pork (or chicken), and aromatic thyme create a delightful combination of flavors that will please your entire family. Whether you’re following a keto lifestyle or simply looking for an easy slow cooker recipe, this dish ticks all the boxes. Don’t hesitate to experiment with additional ingredients or adjust the seasonings to make it your own. Enjoy this hearty dish and savor the flavors that make it a standout favorite!
