This chicken bolognese recipe puts a delightful twist on the classic Italian dish by using ground chicken instead of beef. The result is a dish that is lighter and healthier without compromising on flavor. The combination of juicy ground chicken, aromatic herbs, rich tomatoes, and savory Parmesan cheese makes this dish a winner for both weeknight meals and special occasions. Serve this chicken bolognese over your favorite pasta for a satisfying and comforting meal that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, finely chopped
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Cooked pasta for serving
Directions
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat some olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the garlic, carrot, and celery, and cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
- Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and add the ground chicken to the other side.
- Cook the chicken until browned and cooked through, breaking it up into smaller pieces with a spatula.
- Stir the vegetables and chicken together.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and red wine (if using) to the skillet.
- Stir in the dried basil, dried oregano, dried thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet.
- Let the bolognese sauce simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- When ready to serve, remove the bay leaf and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
- Serve the chicken bolognese over cooked pasta of your choice.