If you’re craving a comforting pasta dish that’s both hearty and full of flavor, this Chicken Bolognese with Rigatoni is going to be your new go-to. This recipe offers a lighter twist on classic Bolognese by using ground chicken instead of beef or pork, creating a tender, savory sauce that clings perfectly to rigatoni pasta. With a rich tomato base infused with aromatic vegetables and herbs, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s simple enough for weeknight dinners but special enough to serve guests.

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

What makes this Chicken Bolognese with Rigatoni stand out? First, it’s incredibly easy to make with pantry staples and fresh ingredients you likely have on hand. The ground chicken cooks quickly and soaks up all the flavors of the herbs, garlic, and vegetables in the sauce. Rigatoni is an ideal pasta shape here; its ridges and hollow centers trap the chunky sauce for every delicious bite. Plus, it’s a versatile dish that can be whipped up in under an hour and still feels like a comforting, homemade meal. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly dinner or a new pasta favorite, this recipe delivers every time.

The Ingredient Lineup

1 pound ground chicken – lean and tender, the star protein in this sauce
2 tablespoons olive oil – for sautéing and building flavor
1 onion, finely chopped – adds sweetness and depth
2 cloves garlic, minced – aromatic and essential for Bolognese
1 carrot, diced – contributes subtle sweetness and texture
1 celery stalk, diced – classic soffritto base ingredient
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes – the rich tomato foundation of the sauce
2 teaspoons dried oregano – herbal warmth
1 teaspoon dried basil – bright, fragrant notes
Salt and pepper to taste – essential seasoning
1 pound rigatoni pasta – robust shape to hold the sauce
Fresh basil leaves for garnish – adds freshness and color
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving – salty, nutty finish

What You’ll Need (Gear)

Large skillet or sauté pan: For cooking the chicken and vegetables.
Large pot: To boil the rigatoni pasta.
Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring the sauce.
Colander: To drain the cooked pasta.
Measuring spoons: For precise seasoning.
Grater: To freshly grate Parmesan cheese.

Build Chicken Bolognese with Rigatoni Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Sofritto Base

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, diced carrot, and celery. Cook gently, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and the onion turns translucent, about 5-7 minutes. This aromatic base is crucial to building layers of flavor in your sauce.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Ground Chicken

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the ground chicken to the pan, breaking it up with your spoon. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink and begins to brown, about 6-8 minutes. This step ensures a rich, meaty texture.

Step 3: Pour in the Tomatoes and Herbs

Pour in the crushed tomatoes, then sprinkle in the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This slow simmer allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 4: Cook the Rigatoni Pasta

While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving a cup of pasta water just in case you want to loosen the sauce.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Mix the cooked rigatoni into the skillet with the Chicken Bolognese sauce. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Serve garnished with fresh basil leaves and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

Fresh Seasonal Changes

Add finely chopped zucchini or bell peppers in the soffritto for extra veggies during summer.
Swap crushed tomatoes for fresh, peeled, and diced tomatoes when they’re in peak season.
In cooler months, stir in some sautéed mushrooms for earthiness.
Top with a handful of fresh arugula or spinach just before serving for a peppery bite.

Missteps & Fixes

If your sauce tastes bland, don’t be shy with salt and pepper—seasoning is key!
If the sauce is too watery, simmer it uncovered a little longer to reduce and thicken.
If the sauce feels too thick, loosen it with reserved pasta water or a splash of chicken broth.
Overcooked pasta can become mushy—watch the cooking time and test frequently for al dente texture.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

This Chicken Bolognese with Rigatoni keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness. For longer storage, freeze the sauce (without pasta) in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Warm the sauce gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if it’s too thick. Reheat pasta separately or toss together briefly in the pan to combine before serving.

Handy Q&A

Can I use other pasta shapes with this recipe?

Absolutely! While rigatoni is ideal because it holds the chunky sauce well, you can also use penne, fusilli, or even rigatoni’s cousin, Baked Three Cheese Chicken Penne if you want to try a baked version.

Is ground chicken the best choice for a lighter Bolognese?

Ground chicken offers a leaner alternative to traditional beef or pork, keeping the dish lighter but still flavorful. It pairs perfectly with the herbs and vegetables in the sauce.

How can I make this dish more kid-friendly?

To appeal to picky eaters, finely chop the vegetables so they blend into the sauce more seamlessly. You can also top the pasta with extra Parmesan or even a little mild shredded mozzarella for a cheesy touch.

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Prepare it a day ahead, refrigerate, then reheat when ready. This also makes weeknight dinners a breeze.

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Make It Tonight

There’s nothing like the aroma of a simmering bolognese sauce filling your kitchen to bring a sense of warmth and comfort. This Chicken Bolognese with Rigatoni recipe is straightforward, satisfying, and customizable to whatever you have on hand. Whether you’re serving family, friends, or just yourself, it’s a reliable dish that delivers big on taste without fuss. So grab your skillet, boil that rigatoni, and get ready to enjoy a delicious meal that will keep you coming back for more!

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