Spaghetti Sauce With Chicken
A hearty and flavorful spaghetti sauce with tender chicken, rich tomato flavors, and savory seasonings, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large pot, mix all ingredients together and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 2 hours.
- Add chicken and cook for another 2 to 3 hours or until the sauce thickens.
- Do not cover the pot during cooking.
- Add more water if the sauce gets too thick.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine or a bay leaf during cooking. If you want to reduce sodium, opt for low-sodium tomato products. You can substitute chicken with ground turkey for a leaner option. Adjust spices like garlic powder and celery salt to suit your taste, and don’t hesitate to add fresh herbs for a brighter flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty spaghetti sauce over your favorite pasta, such as spaghetti or penne. It pairs beautifully with Oven Baked Chicken Parmesan for a complete Italian meal. A side of garlic bread or a fresh garden salad complements the dish well. For a rustic touch, sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover spaghetti sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze it in portions for up to 3 months. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce is too thick. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaghetti Sauce With Chicken contains roughly 248 calories, with 9g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (162% of the Daily Value), potassium (46% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2503mg per serving (109% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can substitute fresh tomatoes for canned ones. Use about 2 to 3 pounds of fresh tomatoes, peeled and chopped. Keep in mind that fresh tomatoes may require longer cooking time to break down into a sauce, so adjust accordingly.
Is it possible to make this sauce vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for added flavor and texture. You can also enhance the umami by incorporating a splash of soy sauce or nutritional yeast.
How can I make the sauce spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or diced fresh jalapeños while cooking. You can also serve the sauce with a side of hot sauce for those who enjoy a spicier kick. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).