Chicken Bolognese Recipe

Calendar icon Published: Oct 13th 2024 by Sarah Leadon
Clock icon Last updated: Dec 22nd 2024
Read time: 3 mins
Cuisine:
This recipe, developed through the collective effort of at least 6 experts, underwent meticulous research and testing for over 3 months. Learn more about our process in the art and science behind our recipes or read how we use AI responsibly. This post may contain affiliate links. Read our Disclosure Policy.
Close up view of Chicken Bolognese

Need a healthier alternative to traditional bolognese? Our Chicken Bolognese is a great option. One serving of Chicken Bolognese contains fewer calories and less cholesterol and saturated fat than bolognese made with beef. Plus, it's cooked over low heat for 1 hour, which allows the chicken to soak up the beautiful flavors of the tomato sauce. It is served over spaghetti and topped with salty Parmesan cheese and fresh basil, creating a warm, comforting, and filling meal. Add a side of our garlic bread to make this chicken bolognese even more irresistible!

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What is chicken bolognese made of?

Chicken bolognese is made with olive oil, ground chicken, onion, garlic, red bell pepper, carrot, celery, tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, honey, and various spices, including dried thyme and dried oregano.

What is the difference between meat sauce and Bolognese?

Both bolognese and meat sauce contain meat. However, bolognese includes carrots, celery, and carrots. Additionally, meat sauce is not cooked as long as bolognese. Bolognese sauce is simmered over low heat for 1–3 hours.

Why do Italians put milk in Bolognese?

There are a few reasons why Italians add milk to bolognese for several reasons. First, it adds richness and makes the meat super tender. Second, it helps cut the acidity of the tomatoes and red wine.

Is bolognese better with pasta or spaghetti?

It depends on your preference. Traditionally, bolognese is served with spaghetti. However, you can mix it up and serve it with penne, rigatoni, or tagliatelle pasta.

Author: Sarah Leadon
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Time & Serves

Prep Time
15 mins
Cook Time
72 mins
Total Time
87 mins
Serves
4 persons

Ingredients

  • 3 tablespoons Olive oil

  • 1 pound Ground chicken

  • 1 medium Onion, small dice

  • 1 medium Red bell pepper, small dice

  • 1 medium Carrot, small dice

  • 1 medium stalk Celery, small dice

  • 3 cloves Garlic, minced

  • 1 teaspoon dried Thyme

  • 1 teaspoon dried Oregano

  • 1 teaspoon dried Basil

  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed Red pepper flakes

  • 3 tablespoons Tomato paste

  • 1 teaspoon Kosher salt

  • 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper

  • 1 (28-ounce) can crushed Tomatoes

  • 1 teaspoon Honey

  • 8 ounces Spaghetti

  • 4 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese

  • 2 tablespoons fresh Basil, chopped

Instructions

To a skillet, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Set it over medium-high heat.

Prepare skillet for cooking the chicken

Add ground chicken and cook it for 5 minutes, breaking the meat into smaller pieces.

Cooking the chicken

Add the remaining olive oil, onions, red bell peppers, carrots, and celery, and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft.

Adding onions, bell peppers, carrots and celery

Add garlic, thyme, oregano, basil, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.

Adding garlic, thyme, oregano, basil and re pepper flakes

Add tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes.

Adding tomato paste

Add kosher salt, black pepper, crushed tomatoes, and honey, and stir to combine. Cover the bolognese, turn heat to low, and cook for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.

Adding salt, black pepper, honey and crushed tomatoes

Cook spaghetti in a pot of salted boiling water using the package instructions. Drain the spaghetti in a colander and divide it between 4 bowls.

Cooking the spaghetti

Top with the bolognese and garnish with Parmesan cheese and basil.

Serving the Chicken Bolognese
Sarah Leadon
Author:
Senior Recipe Developer & Food Writer

More posts by Sarah Leadon

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