Chicken Bolognese Recipe + VIDEO

Welcome to my kitchen, where I’m excited to share a healthier twist on the classic Italian Bolognese! This recipe offers a delicious alternative to traditional beef Bolognese, packed with vibrant flavors and nutritious ingredients that make it a family favorite.

Rich and hearty, Bolognese sauce is typically made with ground beef. I’ll be using ground chicken for a delicious, low-fat option that’s easy to prepare. Combined with robust marinara and a colorful mix of vegetables like carrots, onion, garlic, spinach, and mushrooms, this dish is both satisfying and wholesome.

Let’s roll up our sleeves and make a Chicken Bolognese that your taste buds will thank you for!

Why Choose Chicken for Bolognese?

Using ground chicken in your Bolognese offers several benefits:

• Lower in Fat: Chicken is leaner than beef and reduces overall calorie count without sacrificing flavor.
• High in Protein: Chicken is a great source of protein, supporting muscle health and keeping you full longer.
• Versatile Flavor: Chicken absorbs the flavors of spices and herbs beautifully, making it a perfect canvas for this sauce.

Tips

• Make It Ahead: This Chicken Bolognese sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or frozen for up to 2 months.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables based on your preference—zucchini, bell peppers, or even diced eggplant would work well!
• Spice It Up: For a little heat, add some red pepper flakes while sautéing the vegetables.

This Chicken Bolognese is an easy, delicious way to enjoy a classic dish with a healthy twist. Perfect for any night of the week, this meal will leave you feeling satisfied and nourished.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) ground chicken breast
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce (your favorite store-bought variety)
• 2 medium carrots, finely diced
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup spinach 
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 8 oz Pasta of your choice (spaghetti, penne, or whole-wheat)
• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pasta

Start by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining. Set aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced carrots sliced mushrooms and minced garlic. Season with salt and black pepper. Sauté for 5-8 minutes.

3. Add Chicken

Once the vegetables are ready, add the ground chicken breast to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it up, cooking until no pink remains, about 5 minutes.

4. Mix in the Marinara and Spinach

Once the chicken is cooked through, pour in the jar of marinara sauce. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes. Add the baby spinach, stirring until it wilts into the sauce.

5. Combine with Pasta

If the sauce is too thick, you can mix in some reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the Chicken Bolognese sauce, ensuring everything is well coated and heated through.

6. Serve and Garnish

Serve the Chicken Bolognese hot, topped with fresh basil or parsley if desired. For an extra touch, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Enjoy your hearty and healthy meal!

Tips

• Make It Ahead: This Bolognese sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or frozen for up to 2 months.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables based on your preference—zucchini, bell peppers, or even diced eggplant would work well!
• Spice It Up: For a little heat, add some red pepper flakes while sautéing the vegetables.

Enjoy a lighter, vibrant twist on tradition with Chicken Bolognese—a comforting dish bursting with flavor and packed with nutritious goodness for the whole family!

Happy Cooking!