The Ultimate Potato Gem Chicken Carbonara Recipe

 Looking for a creamy, indulgent dinner idea with a fun twist? This Potato Gem Chicken Carbonara recipe is a delicious take on the traditional carbonara. By swapping out pasta with crispy, golden potato gems, you'll transform the classic into a family-friendly dish that's easy to make and loaded with flavor. It’s the perfect comfort food for busy weeknights or cozy weekends!

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to create this easy chicken carbonara with potato gems:

For the Base:

• 1 bag (approximately 500g) frozen potato gems (tater tots)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Carbonara Sauce:

• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Chicken:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great!)
• 4 strips of bacon, chopped
• 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional, for added color and flavor)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Potato Gems

1. Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F) and arrange your potato gems in a single layer on a lined baking tray.
2. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until they’re perfectly golden and crispy. (For extra crunch, you can also air-fry them!)

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

1. While the potato gems are baking, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the chopped bacon. Cook until crispy, then transfer to a plate lined with paper towels.
2. Reserve about 1 tablespoon of the bacon fat in the skillet for added flavor.

Step 3: Mix the Carbonara Sauce

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream until smooth.
2. Stir in the minced garlic, salt, and a generous pinch of black pepper. Set aside.

Step 4: Warm the Chicken and Peas

1. Using the same skillet with the reserved bacon fat, add the cooked chicken and peas (if using). Heat over medium-low heat until warmed through. Turn off the heat to avoid scrambling the eggs in the next step.

Step 5: Combine It All

1. Remove the skillet from the stove and slowly pour the carbonara sauce over the chicken mixture, stirring continuously. The residual heat will gently cook the eggs and thicken the sauce into a creamy consistency.
2. Toss the cooked bacon back into the skillet, giving the mix one final stir.

Step 6: Assemble the Dish

1. Arrange the crispy potato gems on a serving platter or in individual bowls. Spoon the creamy chicken carbonara mixture over the top.
2. Garnish with a sprinkle of additional grated Parmesan and fresh parsley, if desired.

Tips for Serving

• To keep the potato gems crispy, serve immediately after adding the carbonara topping.
• Pair this dish with a fresh green salad or steamed veggies for a complete meal.
• For added spice, sprinkle a little crushed red chili flakes over the top before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Potato Gem Chicken Carbonara is the perfect blend of crispy, creamy, and savory. The potato gems hold their crunch under the rich sauce, providing a playful twist that kids and adults alike will adore. Whether you're hosting a casual dinner or simply craving something comforting, this recipe is sure to impress!

Now it's your turn to wow your taste buds with this easy and unique carbonara recipe. Give it a try tonight, and enjoy every cheesy, crispy bite!