Chicken Bolognese is a delightful twist on the traditional Bolognese sauce, swapping the usual beef or pork for ground chicken. This swap makes the dish lighter and a bit healthier, perfect for those looking for a comforting meal without the heaviness. It's a simple yet flavorful sauce that combines the tender, lean texture of chicken with the rich, tomato-based sauce, aromatic vegetables, and herbs.
This recipe is great for a family dinner or a cozy meal any night of the week. Plus, it's easy to make with just a few ingredients and steps, making it accessible to cooks of all levels.
Why This Recipe Works
What makes this Chicken Bolognese so special is its ability to deliver all the comforting flavors of a traditional Bolognese with a healthier twist. Ground chicken is much leaner than beef or pork, making this sauce lighter on the stomach while still being packed with flavor. The chicken perfectly absorbs the tastes of the tomatoes, garlic, and onions, ensuring that every bite is as satisfying as it is nutritious. Additionally, this recipe is incredibly versatile; it can be adapted to include whatever vegetables you have on hand, making it a great option for using up leftovers and reducing waste.
Another reason to love this Chicken Bolognese is its simplicity and speed. Unlike traditional Bolognese, which often requires hours of simmering to develop depth of flavor, this chicken version comes together in about an hour. This makes it an ideal recipe for busy weeknights when time is of the essence but you still crave a homemade, hearty meal. Furthermore, this sauce freezes beautifully, allowing you to make a large batch and save portions for future meals, saving time and effort down the line. Whether you're looking to lighten up your pasta night or simply in search of a quick and tasty dinner option, Chicken Bolognese is the way to go.
Ingredients
Ground Chicken - The base of the sauce. Lean chicken keeps it healthier. Turkey can be a good substitute.
Canned Tomatoes - Adds the saucy consistency. Fresh ripe tomatoes can also be used if you have time to cook them down.
Onion - Provides a foundational flavor. Shallots can be a milder substitute.
Garlic - Adds depth. If fresh isn't available, garlic powder can work in a pinch.
Carrots - Gives a slight sweetness and texture. Can be omitted or replaced with other veggies like celery.
Tips
- Brown the chicken well to develop flavor.
- Let the sauce simmer slowly to meld the flavors together.
- Use a splash of wine to deglaze the pan and add depth if you like.
- Finely chop the vegetables for a smoother sauce.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as the sauce cooks.
How to Serve
Chicken Bolognese is a versatile sauce that pairs wonderfully with various types of pasta. It's rich, comforting, and perfect for a hearty meal any day of the week. Whether spooned over spaghetti, layered in a lasagna, or used to stuff cannelloni, it's sure to be a hit.
- Over Pasta - Serve it over your favorite pasta, like spaghetti or fettuccine, and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese.
- In Lasagna - Use it as a layer in lasagna for a lighter alternative to traditional beef Bolognese.
- Stuffed Shells - Fill pasta shells with Chicken Bolognese and top with mozzarella cheese for a delicious baked dish.i
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Chicken Bolognese
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 can 28 oz crushed tomatoes
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 2 carrots finely diced
- ¼ cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- ½ cup milk
- Fresh basil for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and carrots, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground chicken. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 8 minutes.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Lower the heat and simmer the sauce for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the sauce gets too thick, add a little water or chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
- Stir in the milk and simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve the Chicken Bolognese over cooked pasta, garnished with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese.
Nutrition
Notes
• Let the sauce simmer slowly to meld the flavors together.
• Use a splash of wine to deglaze the pan and add depth if you like.
• Finely chop the vegetables for a smoother sauce.
• Taste and adjust seasoning as the sauce cooks.