Chicken and Bacon Spaghetti Bolognese

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces of spaghetti
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 slices of bacon, chopped
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

To Make the Bolognese:

1. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the skillet.
3. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
4. Add the ground chicken to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
5. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, dried oregano, and dried basil. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.
6. Once the sauce is ready, add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss until the pasta is well coated in the sauce.
7. Serve the Chicken and Bacon Spaghetti Bolognese hot, garnished with crispy bacon, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped fresh parsley.

How Does It Compare to Traditional Italian Spaghetti Bolognese?

While this Chicken and Bacon Spaghetti Bolognese offers a twist on the traditional Italian version by incorporating chicken and bacon, it still retains the classic flavors of a rich tomato-based sauce with aromatic herbs. The addition of bacon adds a smoky depth of flavor, while the ground chicken provides a leaner alternative to beef. Overall, it’s a delicious variation that adds a unique twist to the classic dish.

Recipe Notes & Tips:

• For extra flavor, you can add a splash of red wine to the sauce while simmering.
• Feel free to adjust the seasoning and herbs according to your taste preferences.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.