Easy Chicken Ragu

This Easy Chicken Ragu is a quick, flavorful pasta dish made with ground chicken, fresh aromatics, and store-bought marinara. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a comforting, budget-friendly meal perfect for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare in 30 minutes
• Uses affordable and accessible ingredients
• Packed with flavor from fresh veggies and herbs
• Can be made with any ground meat
• Family-friendly and kid-approved
• Pairs well with any type of pasta
• Great for meal prep and leftovers
• Comforting yet lighter than traditional beef ragu
• Customizable with pantry staples
• Delicious with or without wine

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 8 ounces dry pasta (spaghetti or linguine)
• 1 pound (450g) ground chicken
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/2 medium onion, chopped
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
• 1 medium stalk celery, chopped
• 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh rosemary (or 1/4 teaspoon dried)
• 1 clove garlic, finely minced
• 1/4 cup (60ml) dry red or white wine (or substitute with broth)
• 3 cups (709ml) marinara sauce or one 26-ounce jar store-bought sauce
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.
4. Stir in garlic and rosemary. Add ground chicken and cook until no longer pink, about 10 minutes. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks.
5. Season with salt and pepper. Add wine or broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits.
6. Stir in marinara sauce and simmer for about 10 minutes until the sauce reduces slightly.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot over pasta.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Swap Proteins: Use ground turkey, pork, beef, or sausage.
• Add Cheese: Stir in grated Parmesan or top with mozzarella.
• More Veggies: Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or chopped chili.
• Wine-Free: Use broth or even lemon juice as a deglazer.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze sauce (without pasta) for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet or microwave until hot. Add a splash of water if sauce thickens.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute and works just as well.

What pasta works best with this ragu?

Spaghetti, linguine, rigatoni, or penne are all great choices.

Do I need to add wine?

No, wine adds flavor but can be replaced with broth or water.

Can I use homemade sauce?

Absolutely. Use your favorite marinara or tomato-based sauce.

How can I make this dairy-free?

Just skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, the sauce freezes well for up to 2 months.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger pot and double all ingredients.

Can I make this in advance?

Yes, it reheats well and tastes even better the next day.

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Don’t overcook and be sure to add moisture with sauce and veggies.

What can I serve with chicken ragu?

Serve with garlic bread, salad, or roasted vegetables.

Conclusion

This easy chicken ragu is the perfect weeknight dinner—hearty, flavorful, and incredibly simple to make. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, it’s sure to become a regular in your meal rotation. Enjoy it fresh or freeze a batch for a quick and comforting meal anytime!

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