If you’re aiming to elevate your cooking repertoire with a dish that fuses rich Italian flavors with American comfort, the Ragu Chicken Parmesan Recipe is ideal. This delicious recipe melds the hearty nature of classic chicken parmesan with the savory depth of Ragu sauce, resulting in a satisfying and simple meal.
What is Ragu Chicken Parmesan?
Ragu Chicken Parmesan is a modern twist on the beloved Italian-American chicken parmesan. It features tender, breaded chicken breasts, generously coated in a rich, tomato-based Ragu sauce, and topped with melted mozzarella and parmesan cheese. This dish combines the comforting crunch of breaded chicken and the savory tang of tomato sauce, all baked to golden perfection.
Important Ingredients
To create the perfect Ragu Chicken Parmesan, you’ll need the following key ingredients:
1. Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless, pounded to an even thickness.
2. Breadcrumbs: For a crisp coating. Panko breadcrumbs can be used for added crunch.
3. Eggs: Beaten, to help the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken.
4. Flour: For dredging the chicken before coating it with egg and breadcrumbs.
5. Ragu Sauce: The star of the dish, providing a rich and flavorful tomato base.
6. Mozzarella Cheese: For a gooey, melty topping.
7. Parmesan Cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor to the topping.
8. Olive Oil: For frying the chicken to a golden brown.
9. Seasonings: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning to enhance the flavor.
How to Make Ragu Chicken Parmesan
Follow these steps to create a mouthwatering Ragu Chicken Parmesan:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off the excess.
- Dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully coated.
- Press the chicken into the breadcrumbs, coating evenly.
2. Cook the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Fry the breaded chicken breasts until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Transfer the fried chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
3. Assemble the Dish:
- Spread a thin layer of Ragu sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Place the fried chicken breasts on top of the sauce.
- Spoon additional Ragu sauce over each piece of chicken.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan cheese generously over the chicken.
4. Bake to Perfection:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- For an extra crispy top, broil for the last 2-3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
- Let the dish cool slightly before serving.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of color and added flavor.
Quick Tips for the Best Ragu Chicken Parmesan Recipe
- Even Cooking: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure they cook evenly.
- Crispy Coating: For an extra crispy coating, use Panko breadcrumbs and make sure the oil is hot enough before frying.
- Sauce Quality: Use a high-quality Ragu sauce for the best flavor. Homemade or premium store-bought versions work well.
- Cheese Combination: Mixing mozzarella and parmesan cheese provides a perfect blend of melty and sharp flavors.
- Resting Time: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking to let the juices redistribute, resulting in a juicier bite.
The Ragu Chicken Parmesan Recipe is a fantastic way to impress your family and friends with a delicious, hearty meal. With its crispy chicken, flavorful Ragu sauce, and cheesy topping, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!