Chicken Carbonara with Spinach – Simple Creamy Pasta Recipe

Creamy chicken carbonara with spinach is one of those recipes that came together on a chilly Tuesday night with just a few staples from the fridge and pantry. After a long day, the goal was something warm, fast, and comforting. That first forkful of silky noodles, tender chicken, and garlicky greens made this recipe an instant favorite.

What makes it even better is how easy it is to pull together without needing anything fancy. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, a family meal, or something to impress guests without the fuss.

The rich flavor from the Parmesan, the gentle garlic aroma, and the pop of green from the spinach create a balance of taste and color that always hits the spot. And because it uses everyday ingredients, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again.

From the first time I stirred it off the heat to avoid scrambling the eggs, I knew this one was a keeper. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making it, too.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Carbonara with Spinach

• Ready in 30 minutes using one pan and simple ingredients
• Packed with flavor thanks to garlic, Parmesan, and juicy grilled chicken
• Fresh spinach gives it a vibrant color and healthy twist
• No cream sauces or flour needed, just a classic silky carbonara texture
• Easily adaptable with your favorite pasta shape or add-ins

Chicken Carbonara with Spinach Ingredients

• 12 ounces spaghetti or linguine, cooked al dente
• 2 cups grilled chicken breast, sliced or cubed
• 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
• ½ teaspoon sea salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ½ cup reserved pasta water
• Optional: ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes for mild heat

To make it picture-perfect, aim for fresh, high-quality Parmesan, bright spinach leaves, and golden seared chicken. This is one of those recipes where fresh ingredients truly shine. For a delicious twist on garlic-parmesan flavors, check out this Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice.

How to Make Chicken Carbonara with Spinach

1. Cook spaghetti or linguine in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add spinach and cook until just wilted, about 1 minute.
3. Stir in the sliced grilled chicken and cook for 2 minutes until heated through. Remove from heat.
4. In a bowl, whisk eggs, Parmesan, salt, and pepper until combined. Slowly pour egg mixture into the pan with pasta and chicken, tossing quickly to coat while the pan is still warm.
5. Add reserved pasta water gradually, stirring until the sauce becomes silky and clings to the noodles. Serve hot with extra Parmesan.

If you love one-pan recipes that come together easily, you might also enjoy this One Pan Chicken and Rice Bake.

Spinach Carbonara Pasta Serving Suggestions

This pasta is a satisfying main course on its own, but a few sides can make it even better.

Serve it with warm garlic bread or a slice of crusty sourdough. A crisp Caesar salad or mixed greens with lemon vinaigrette balance the richness beautifully. You can also add a soft-boiled egg on top for an extra creamy bite or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for heat.

When serving guests, swirl the pasta neatly on the plate, top with sliced chicken, and garnish with cracked pepper and shaved Parmesan. This meal pairs nicely with sparkling water with lemon or a chilled glass of apple cider. Looking for more ways to cook chicken to juicy perfection? Try these Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs next.

Spinach Carbonara Variations and Customization

• Swap the chicken: Use rotisserie chicken, turkey, or plant-based alternatives
• Add veggies: Mushrooms, zucchini, or peas go well in this dish
• Spice it up: Stir in a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes
• Go low-carb: Use zoodles or spaghetti squash instead of pasta
• Try different pasta: Penne, fettuccine, or tortellini are great substitutes

Spinach adds freshness and color, but you can switch to baby kale or arugula if that’s what you have on hand. For a rich, slightly sweet profile, roasted red peppers make a tasty add-in. Craving a comforting dish with big flavors? You’ll love this Marry Me Chicken Crock Pot as well.

Pasta Carbonara with Chicken Storage and Reheating

Let the pasta cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth, milk, or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. Stir constantly to avoid overcooking the eggs. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can dry out the sauce and make the eggs separate.

This dish doesn’t freeze well due to the egg-based sauce, but it holds up beautifully in the fridge for next-day lunches.

Skillet Chicken Carbonara Pro Tips

• Mix off heat: Always combine the egg and cheese mixture off the heat to prevent scrambling
• Use fresh Parmesan: Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly and affects texture
• Reserve enough pasta water: It helps emulsify the sauce into a creamy consistency
• Room temp eggs: Take them out before you start cooking so they mix easily
• Work quickly: Toss the hot pasta with the egg mixture as soon as it’s drained

These simple tips can take your pasta from good to great and help avoid common mistakes that often happen with quick-cooked sauces.

Spinach Carbonara Pasta Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the eggs: Pouring the egg mixture into a hot pan can lead to scrambled eggs
• Skipping the pasta water: It’s essential for creating a creamy, clingy sauce
• Using cold eggs: Cold eggs don’t blend well and may result in clumps
• Under-seasoning: Parmesan is salty, but you still need a little salt for balance
• Cooking spinach too long: It only needs a minute to wilt or it’ll become mushy

Avoiding these small slip-ups will give you a pasta dish that’s luscious and smooth every single time.

World’s Best Chicken Carbonara with Spinach Conclusion

This chicken carbonara with spinach recipe is a go-to meal for when you want something comforting but not heavy. It’s rich, creamy, and full of satisfying textures with a hint of freshness from the greens. Perfect for busy weeknights or special dinners, it’s easy to love and even easier to share.

If this recipe made your dinner table a little brighter, be sure to pin it and share it with your pasta-loving friends.

FAQs about Chicken Carbonara with Spinach

Can I use frozen spinach in chicken carbonara with spinach?

Yes, frozen spinach works if thawed and drained well. Be sure to squeeze out excess moisture so it doesn’t water down the sauce. Fresh spinach offers more texture and color, but both are delicious.

What type of pasta works best for spinach carbonara?

Spaghetti is classic, but linguine, fettuccine, or even penne work well. Use a pasta shape that holds the sauce and complements the chicken.

How do I make chicken carbonara with spinach healthier?

Use whole wheat or protein pasta, reduce cheese to ¾ cup, and skip additional oil if using nonstick pans. You can also add more greens or toss in steamed vegetables.

Is there a dairy-free option for this spinach carbonara?

To make it dairy-free, use a vegan Parmesan substitute and a dairy-free milk for creaminess. Make sure the plant-based cheese melts smoothly and has a salty bite similar to Parmesan.

Can I prep chicken carbonara with spinach in advance?

You can cook the chicken and prep the ingredients ahead of time, but mix the sauce fresh for best results. Carbonara is best served right after cooking while it’s hot and silky.

Chicken Carbonara with Spinach – Simple Creamy Pasta Recipe

Author: Ellie Courses: Dinner