If you’re looking for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner, look no further than this easy chicken ragu recipe. This hearty Italian dish is made with tender chicken, flavorful tomatoes, and aromatic herbs. The best part? It can be on your table in less than an hour!
To make this chicken ragu, start by sautéing onions and garlic in a large pot until they become soft and fragrant. Then, add in boneless, skinless chicken breasts that have been seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken until it is browned on all sides, and then remove it from the pot.
In the same pot, add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and a bay leaf, along with a sprinkle of Italian seasoning. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. While the sauce is cooking, shred the cooked chicken with two forks. Once the sauce is ready, add the shredded chicken back into the pot and let it heat through.
Serve the chicken ragu over your favorite pasta or with crusty bread for a complete meal. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Give it a try and enjoy a taste of Italy in your own home!
What is Chicken Ragu?
To make Chicken Ragu, chicken pieces are first browned in a pan to develop a deep flavor. Then, onions, carrots, and celery are sautéed until tender. Tomatoes, broth, and herbs are added to the pot and simmered together with the chicken and vegetables until the meat becomes tender and easily shreddable. The end result is a thick and chunky sauce that is full of flavor.
Chicken Ragu is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. It can be served over pasta, such as spaghetti or tagliatelle, for a classic Italian meal. It can also be spooned over mashed potatoes or polenta for a comforting twist. Additionally, it can be used as a filling for sandwiches or as a topping for pizza.
Ingredients: | Instructions: |
---|---|
|
|
Understanding the Basics
First and foremost, let’s talk about the star of the dish – the chicken. When making a chicken ragu, it’s important to choose the right cut of chicken. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a great option, as they are tender and hold up well to braising. However, if you prefer white meat, boneless, skinless chicken breasts can also be used. It’s important to season the chicken well with salt and pepper before cooking it, as this will help to enhance its natural flavor.
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts.
- Seasoning: Salt and pepper.
Next, let’s talk about the sauce. The ragu sauce is the heart of this dish, and it’s what gives it its rich and flavorful taste. The base of the sauce is typically made with onions, garlic, and tomatoes. It’s important to sauté the onions and garlic until they are soft and fragrant before adding the tomatoes. This will help to develop the flavors and create a delicious sauce that coats the chicken. You can also add additional spices, such as dried herbs or red pepper flakes, to customize the sauce to your tastes.
Sauce Base: | Additional Spices: |
---|---|
Onions | Dried herbs |
Garlic | Red pepper flakes |
Tomatoes |
By understanding the basics of making a chicken ragu, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that is sure to impress. From choosing the right cut of chicken to creating a flavorful sauce, these simple steps can make a big difference in the final result. So why not give it a try and see for yourself!
Gathering the Ingredients
Before you start cooking the Easy Chicken Ragu, it’s essential to gather all the necessary ingredients. Having everything ready and organized will make the cooking process smooth and efficient.
Here is a list of the key ingredients you will need for this recipe:
- Chicken thighs: The main protein source for this dish. Make sure to use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for easier preparation.
- Olive oil: Used for cooking the chicken and sautéing the vegetables. It adds a rich flavor to the dish.
- Onion: A staple ingredient in many recipes, it provides a savory base for the ragu.
- Carrot: Adds sweetness and a vibrant color to the dish. It also complements the flavors of the chicken and tomatoes.
- Celery: Gives a subtle earthy flavor and adds crunch to the ragu. It pairs well with the other vegetables.
- Garlic: Provides a delightful aroma and enhances the overall taste of the dish.
- Tomato paste: Concentrated tomato flavor that adds richness and depth to the ragu.
- Canned diced tomatoes: The main tomato component of the ragu. Make sure to use high-quality canned tomatoes for a better taste.
- Dried herbs: A blend of dried basil, oregano, and thyme adds complexity to the sauce. You can also use fresh herbs if available.
- Chicken broth: Adds moisture and flavor to the dish. It helps to create a delicious sauce.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out the flavors of the ingredients.
- Pasta: Traditional Italian pasta, such as tagliatelle or fettuccine, is commonly served with ragu.
- Parmesan cheese: A classic garnish for ragu dishes. It adds a salty and nutty flavor to complement the sauce.
Make sure to check your pantry and local grocery store to ensure you have all the ingredients listed. Now that you have everything ready, it’s time to start cooking the Easy Chicken Ragu!