Easy Chicken Bolognese with Fettuccine Recipe

If you’re looking for a delicious and comforting meal that comes together quickly and packs a flavorful punch, this Chicken Bolognese with Fettuccine is your new go-to. Combining tender ground chicken with a rich, savory tomato sauce and perfectly cooked fettuccine, this recipe is both hearty and satisfying. Whether you’re making a weeknight dinner or feeding a hungry crowd, this dish balances ease and taste in a way that’ll make it one of your favorites in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Speedy preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy evenings when time is tight.
• Healthy twist: Using ground chicken keeps it lighter than traditional beef bolognese without sacrificing flavor.
• Rich, customizable flavor: The sauce is easy to tweak with herbs and spices you love.
• Family-friendly: A crowd-pleasing dish that kids and adults both enjoy.
• Comfort food satisfaction: Creamy fettuccine soaked in a savory tomato sauce hits the spot every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, fresh ingredients make this Chicken Bolognese with Fettuccine stand out. Each component adds a layer of flavor or texture that combines into a mouthwatering meal you’ll crave again.

• Ground chicken: Lean protein that cooks quickly and absorbs rich flavors.
• Fettuccine pasta: Wide ribbons to hold the sauce beautifully.
• Canned tomatoes: Use crushed or diced tomatoes for a thick, flavorful base.
• Onion and garlic: Essential aromatics that create a savory foundation.
• Carrots: Grated for natural sweetness and subtle crunch.
• Olive oil: For sautéing and adding richness to the sauce.
• Dried Italian herbs: Basil, oregano, and thyme to infuse the sauce with classic Mediterranean flavors.
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated to finish the dish with a nutty, salty kick.
• Salt and pepper: To balance and enhance every flavor.
• Chicken broth or water: Adds moisture and depth to the sauce.

Variations for Chicken Bolognese with Fettuccine

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is! You can easily swap out ingredients or adjust flavors to fit dietary needs or personal cravings.

• Vegetable boost: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and texture.
• Spicy kick: Toss in red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free fettuccine or spiralized veggies as pasta substitutes.
• Herb variations: Swap dried Italian herbs for fresh basil or rosemary for a different aromatic twist.
• Dairy-free version: Use nutritional yeast or omit cheese altogether for vegan-friendly meals.

How to Make Chicken Bolognese with Fettuccine

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by finely chopping the onion, mincing the garlic, and grating the carrots. This prep work ensures the sauce will have an even texture and all the flavors blend perfectly.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining to help loosen the sauce later if needed.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and carrots and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then stir in garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Brown the Chicken

Add the ground chicken to the pan, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until it turns opaque and lightly browned, which should take about 6–8 minutes.

Step 5: Build the Sauce

Pour in the canned tomatoes and chicken broth, then sprinkle in the dried herbs, salt, and pepper. Let everything simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to deepen and the sauce to thicken.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Toss the cooked fettuccine into the sauce, adding reserved pasta water if the sauce seems too thick. Mix well to coat every strand. Serve hot with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Bolognese with Fettuccine

• Use quality chicken: Fresh ground chicken tastes best and cooks more evenly than frozen.
• Don’t skip the pasta water: Starchy pasta water helps the sauce adhere beautifully to the noodles.
• Simmer gently: Keep the sauce on low heat to develop richer flavors without drying out.
• Season gradually: Taste and adjust salt and pepper throughout cooking to perfectly balance flavors.
• Fresh garnishes matter: A sprinkle of fresh herbs or lemon zest adds brightness to the dish before serving.

How to Serve Chicken Bolognese with Fettuccine

Garnishes

Freshly grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, or basil leaves add color and fresh flavor that lifts the entire dish. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes also makes a lovely finishing touch.

Side Dishes

A crisp green salad or steamed veggies balance the rich pasta plate. Garlic bread or a crusty loaf complements the hearty sauce by soaking up every last bit.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the Chicken Bolognese with Fettuccine in shallow bowls to show off the sauce coating the noodles or layer the pasta, sauce, and cheese in a glass casserole dish for a rustic bowl presentation. Adding a lemon wedge on the side offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Chicken Bolognese with Fettuccine in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making reheated pasta even better!

Freezing

Freeze cooled sauce and cooked pasta separately in sealed containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently to preserve texture.

Reheating

Warm leftovers on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce’s consistency—microwaving works well too but stir halfway through for even heating.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will work similarly in terms of flavor and texture.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, the sauce and pasta freeze well when stored separately, making meal prep easy and convenient.

What can I use instead of fettuccine?

Any wide pasta like pappardelle or tagliatelle, or even spaghetti if that’s what you have on hand.

Can I add vegetables to the sauce?

Definitely, adding mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers boosts nutrition and adds delicious variety.

How spicy is this Chicken Bolognese with Fettuccine?

As written, it’s mild, but you can add chili flakes or hot sauce to raise the heat level to your preference.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Bolognese with Fettuccine recipe is a cozy, effortless meal that brings vibrant flavors to your table without hours of work. It’s perfect for weeknights when you want something warm, nourishing, and satisfying. Give it a try and see how quickly it becomes one of your favorite pasta dishes!

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