Quicker Chicken Spaghetti Bolognese
Ready for a cozy dinner that feels like a hug in a bowl but won’t have you spending hours in the kitchen? Let me introduce you to Quicker Chicken Spaghetti Bolognese, a fast-track version of the classic Italian comfort dish that’s every bit as satisfying. This one swaps traditional beef for juicy, tender chicken, which keeps it lighter but still deeply flavorful. Add in a rich tomato base, some garlic and herbs, and you’ve got yourself a weeknight winner that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Perfect for when you want something hearty, delicious, and made with love (but also want it ready in under 30 minutes). Trust me, this one’s a keeper.
Why You’ll Love Quicker Chicken Spaghetti Bolognese
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Serve it over your favorite pasta, use it in lasagna, or spoon it over baked potatoes.
Budget-Friendly: Simple pantry staples and ground chicken make it easy on the wallet without skimping on flavor.
Quick and Easy: Dinner on the table in 30 minutes flat yes, please!
Customizable: Add veggies, swap pasta types, or spice it up with chili flakes.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.
Ingredients in Quicker Chicken Spaghetti Bolognese
This Bolognese may be “quicker,” but it still brings big, bold flavor with just a few humble ingredients:
Ground Chicken
Lean and light, it soaks up all the rich tomatoey goodness beautifully.
Onion
The aromatic base that builds flavor from the start sweet and savory all in one.
Garlic
You know the drill: more is more. It gives the sauce that cozy depth we crave.
Tomato Paste
Concentrated flavor that makes the sauce thick and rich.
Crushed Tomatoes
The backbone of the sauce. Adds juiciness and that classic Italian flavor.
Olive Oil
For sautéing and a touch of richness.
Italian Seasoning
A blend of oregano, basil, and thyme to give it that unmistakable Bolognese vibe.
Salt & Black Pepper
Because good seasoning is everything.
Optional: Red Pepper Flakes
For a little kick, if you’re into that (we are).
Spaghetti
The perfect twirlable partner for this savory sauce.
Optional: Fresh Parsley or Basil
For a fresh pop of color and herby brightness.

Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Preheat Your Equipment
No oven needed here! Just get a large skillet or sauté pan warming over medium heat.
Combine Ingredients
In the hot pan, add olive oil, then sauté the onion until soft and translucent. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
Prepare Your Cooking Vessel
Meanwhile, bring a pot of salted water to a boil for your spaghetti.
Assemble the Dish
Add ground chicken to the pan, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until no longer pink. Stir in tomato paste, then add crushed tomatoes and seasoning. Let it all simmer to thicken and deepen in flavor.
Cook to Perfection
Boil spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and toss with a bit of olive oil or a spoonful of the sauce.
Finishing Touches
Taste and adjust seasoning. Add herbs and red pepper flakes if using. Let the sauce simmer for a few more minutes to bring everything together.
Serve and Enjoy
Plate up spaghetti and ladle on that luscious Bolognese. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or Parmesan if you’ve got it. Dig in!
Nutrition Facts: Servings: 4 Calories per serving: ~420
Preparation Time Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 20 minutes Total Time: 30 minutes
How to Serve Quicker Chicken Spaghetti Bolognese
This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
- Serve with a crisp green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette
- Add garlic bread or cheesy toast on the side
- Top with freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino
- Pair with roasted vegetables for a heartier meal
- A glass of red wine never hurt (if that’s your thing)
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
- Use ground turkey if you don’t have chicken
- Add finely chopped carrots or celery for more veg
- A splash of milk or cream can make the sauce extra silky
- Save pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed
- Cook pasta just to al dente it’ll absorb the sauce better
- Add mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor and nutrients
- Freeze leftovers for a future lazy dinner
- For gluten-free, use your favorite GF spaghetti
- Fresh basil at the end makes it pop
- Want to boost the umami? Add a dash of soy sauce or Worcestershire
FAQ’s
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! It works just as well and has a similar texture and flavor.
2. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! The sauce actually tastes even better the next day.
3. Can I freeze the sauce?
Definitely. Let it cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
4. What pasta works best?
Spaghetti is classic, but you can use penne, rigatoni, or even zoodles for a low-carb option.
5. Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes the recipe is naturally dairy-free. Just skip the Parmesan topping or use a dairy-free version.
6. Is this spicy?
Not unless you add red pepper flakes! Totally customizable to your spice preference.
7. How do I thicken the sauce?
Let it simmer uncovered, and the sauce will naturally reduce and thicken.
8. Can I add cheese to the sauce?
Sure! A handful of grated Parmesan stirred in makes it extra rich.
9. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, just cook them down longer to get the same rich consistency.
10. What herbs go best with this?
Basil and parsley are great. Rosemary or thyme can also be lovely in moderation.
Conclusion
There you have it Quicker Chicken Spaghetti Bolognese that doesn’t cut corners on flavor. It’s fast, it’s easy, and it’s seriously delicious. This recipe proves that weeknight cooking can still be comforting and impressive without making a mess or taking hours. Keep it in your back pocket for busy nights, cozy dinners, or when you’re just craving a big bowl of saucy, twirly happiness. You’re going to love every bite.
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Quicker Chicken Spaghetti Bolognese
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Halal
Description
Quicker Chicken Spaghetti Bolognese is a lighter, faster twist on the classic Italian meat sauce. Using ground chicken instead of beef makes it leaner and perfect for weeknight meals, while still delivering rich, savory flavor with herbs, tomatoes, and a touch of garlic.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 carrot, finely grated or chopped
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped (optional)
- 500g (1 lb) ground chicken
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/4 tsp chili flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 400g (14 oz) canned crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 300g (10 oz) spaghetti
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery until softened, about 5–6 minutes.
- Add the ground chicken, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and no longer pink.
- Stir in oregano, basil, chili flakes, tomato paste, and cook for 1–2 minutes.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir well, bring to a simmer, and cook for 10–15 minutes until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss the cooked spaghetti with the sauce or serve the sauce over the pasta. Garnish with fresh herbs and Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- For extra richness, add a splash of cream or milk to the sauce.
- This dish works well with other pasta shapes like penne or fettuccine.
- Use leftover roast chicken instead of ground for an even faster version.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: chicken bolognese, healthy pasta, quick spaghetti recipe, ground chicken pasta, weeknight dinner