Ingredients:

  • 1 lb chicken breast, cut into 1 inch medallions
  • 0.5 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 4 oz pancetta, diced into small batons
  • 2 large whole eggs
  • 2 large egg yolks
  • 0.5 cup freshly grated Pecorino Romano
  • 0.5 cup freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano
  • 0.33 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 lb spaghetti
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced fine
  • 0.25 cup flat leaf parsley, chopped
  • 1 pinch red pepper flakes

Instructions:

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the 2 whole eggs, 2 egg yolks, Pecorino Romano, Parmigiano Reggiano, heavy cream, and black pepper. Note: Whisking early allows the cheese to begin hydrating in the egg proteins.
  2. Fill a large pot with water and a generous palmful of salt. Cook 1 lb spaghetti 1 minute less than package directions until it is slightly firmer than al dente.
  3. While the water boils, place 4 oz diced pancetta in a cold skillet over medium heat. Cook 5-7 mins until fat is rendered and edges are crispy.
  4. Remove the pancetta with a slotted spoon, leaving the fat in the pan. Add 1 lb chicken medallions in a single layer. Cook 3 mins per side until golden and cooked through.
  5. Push the chicken to the edges and add 0.5 lb shrimp, 3 cloves minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Cook 2 mins until shrimp is pink and opaque.
  6. Before draining the pasta, carefully dip a measuring cup into the pot. Reserve 1.5 cups of starchy pasta water.
  7. Add the cooked pasta and the crispy pancetta into the skillet with the chicken and shrimp. Toss over low heat for 1 min until the noodles are coated in fat.
  8. Turn off the heat entirely and move the pan to a cool burner. Pour in the egg mixture while tossing the pasta constantly with tongs. Note: Constant motion is what creates the sauce instead of scrambled eggs.
  9. Slowly drizzle in the reserved pasta water, 1/4 cup at a time, while continuing to toss. Stop when the sauce is velvety and clings to the noodles.
  10. Fold in the 0.25 cup chopped parsley. Serve immediately while the sauce is at its peak silkiness.