This Veggie-Loaded Ground Chicken Spaghetti Sauce is packed with goodness! It features lean ground chicken and a colorful mix of veggies that makes it both healthy and tasty.
Honestly, the best part is how sneaky it is—your family won’t even know they’re eating their veggies! I love serving it over spaghetti for a fun, guilt-free meal that everyone enjoys.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is leaner than ground beef and less fatty. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can use plant-based ground meat or lentils. Both options work great in absorbing the sauce flavors.
Olive Oil: A staple for sautéing, but any cooking oil works. You could use avocado oil or even a butter substitute for a richer taste.
Mushrooms: They add a nice texture and earthy flavor. If you aren’t a fan, feel free to swap them for diced carrots or more zucchini. You can also use canned mushrooms if fresh ones aren’t available.
Crushed Tomatoes: The base of the sauce! If you want a lower sodium option, use fresh diced tomatoes or tomato puree. Just be mindful of the consistency.
Pasta: While spaghetti is classic, you can use any pasta you like, such as penne, fusilli, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb take.
How Do I Make Sure My Sauce Has Great Flavor?
The key to delicious sauce lies in layering flavors. Start by sautéing your onions and garlic properly; this builds a flavorful base. Here’s how to enhance the taste:
- Cook onions until they’re translucent but not browned, around 2-3 minutes.
- Don’t rush adding garlic; it only needs 30 seconds to release its aroma without burning.
- Simmer the sauce on low heat after adding all ingredients—this lets the flavors meld beautifully, about 10-15 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning! More herbs or a pinch of salt can elevate your sauce.
With these tips, your Veggie-Loaded Ground Chicken Spaghetti Sauce will be a crowd-pleaser!
Veggie-Loaded Ground Chicken Spaghetti Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sauce:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper (green or red), finely chopped
- 1 small zucchini, diced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
- 8 oz spaghetti pasta
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend roughly 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and 20 minutes cooking the sauce and pasta. It’s a quick and hearty meal that’s perfect for the whole family!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Spaghetti:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
While the spaghetti is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it releases its lovely aroma.
3. Brown the Chicken:
Next, add the ground chicken to the skillet. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks. Stir until it’s browned and fully cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the Veggies:
Add the chopped bell pepper, diced zucchini, and sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to become tender.
5. Make the Sauce:
Once the vegetables are tender, stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, dried parsley, optional red pepper flakes, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything well.
6. Simmer the Sauce:
Reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer for about 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally so the flavors blend and the sauce thickens nicely.
7. Final Touches:
Give your sauce a final taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Once it’s ready, remove it from heat.
8. Serve:
To plate, put a serving of spaghetti on each dish and generously spoon the veggie-loaded ground chicken sauce over the top. Sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil, and if you’d like, add some grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
9. Enjoy:
Serve your delicious spaghetti sauce immediately, perhaps alongside some garlic bread or a fresh side salad for a complete meal!
Enjoy your hearty, flavorful, and healthy Veggie-Loaded Ground Chicken Spaghetti Sauce!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can substitute ground chicken with ground turkey or lean ground beef. For a vegetarian option, try using lentils, chickpeas, or a plant-based meat substitute for a similar texture.
What If I Don’t Have All The Vegetables?
No worries! Feel free to get creative with the veggies you include. You can use carrots, spinach, or even eggplant based on your preference or what you have on hand. Just chop them into smaller pieces and add them at the same time as the other vegetables.
Can I Make This Sauce in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce a day ahead. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat on the stove and serve it with freshly cooked spaghetti.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating and serving!
