The perfect cozy pasta night, made lighter with ground chicken and finished with a dreamy touch of cream. This recipe brings warmth and comfort to your table, with a rich and flavorful sauce that pairs beautifully with your favorite pasta. It's a lighter twist on the classic Bolognese, perfect for...
Ingredients
olive oil2tbsp
onion, finely diced1
carrot, diced1
celery stalk, diced1
garlic, minced3clove
tomato paste2tbsp
ground chicken1lb
salt1/2tsp
black pepper1/4tsp
red pepper flakes (optional)1pinch
white wine (or chicken broth)1/2cup
can crushed tomatoes28oz
dried thyme or Italian seasoning1/2tsp- heavy cream or whole milk1/2cup
pasta of choice (e.g., Pappardelle)1
mozzarella, for finishing1
Parmesan, for finishing1
fresh herbs, for finishing1
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
280.0kcal (14%)
Protein
23.5g (47%)
Carbs
13.0g (4.73%)
Sugars
4.5g (9%)
Healthy Fat
12.6g
Unhealthy Fat
5.0g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
How to make Chicken Bolognese
- Step 1
Sauté the onion, carrot, and celery in olive oil for 8–10 minutes until softened.
- Step 2
Add the minced garlic and stir for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 3
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2–3 minutes to deepen the flavor.
- Step 4
Add the ground chicken, season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using), and cook until the chicken is no longer pink.
- Step 5
Deglaze the pan with white wine or chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits, and let it simmer until reduced.
- Step 6
Add the crushed tomatoes and dried thyme or Italian seasoning. Simmer uncovered for 30–45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Step 7
Stir in the heavy cream or whole milk. Taste and adjust the salt if needed.
- Step 8
Toss the sauce with your cooked pasta of choice, ensuring it is well coated.
- Step 9
Top with mozzarella, Parmesan, and fresh herbs. Broil in an oven-safe dish for 2–4 minutes to melt the cheese and achieve a golden finish.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
280.0kcal (14%)
Protein
23.5g (47%)
Carbs
13.0g (4.73%)
Sugars
4.5g (9%)
Healthy Fat
12.6g
Unhealthy Fat
5.0g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Tips & Tricks
For a deeper flavor, let the sauce simmer longer, up to an hour, if you have the time.
If you prefer a spicier sauce, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
Reserve some pasta water to thin the sauce if it becomes too thick.
Pappardelle works beautifully, but feel free to use any pasta you love or have on hand.
FAQS
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground chicken with ground turkey, beef, or pork for a different flavor profile.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can replace the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream.
What can I use instead of white wine?
You can use chicken broth or vegetable broth as a substitute for white wine.
Can I freeze the sauce?
Yes, the sauce freezes well. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?
If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water or broth to thin it out to your desired consistency.
Loading reviews...
Carly's Cookbook
(@carlyscookbook)
I’ve got your dinner plans! 🍋healthy(ish), simple recipes for every home cook I’ve got your dinner plans! 🍋healthy(ish), simple recipes for every home cook...
Marnirni-apinthi Building, Lot Fourteen,
North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000
Australia