Welcome to the Roots Food Group blog, where today we're exploring a comforting and savory recipe: Chicken Ragu with Bacon. This dish combines tender chicken and crispy bacon in a rich, flavorful broth, offering a hearty meal perfect for any day of the week. Before diving into the recipe, explore this delightful dish's history, benefits, and cultural significance.
A Brief History of Ragu
Ragu is a meat-based sauce from Italian cuisine, traditionally served with pasta. While the most famous ragu is perhaps the Bolognese, variations exist throughout Italy and worldwide. Our Chicken Ragu with Bacon is a twist on these traditional recipes, using poultry instead of red meat and adding bacon for a deeper, smokier flavor.
Health Benefits
Chicken is a great source of lean protein, essential for muscle growth and repair. Incorporating chicken into your diet provides a nutritious alternative to red meats, which can be higher in fat. Adding chicken broth to this recipe also helps create a comforting, hydrating, and soothing dish, especially during colder months.
Cultural Significance
Ragu holds a special place in many cultures, symbolizing home cooking and the warmth of family gatherings. This Chicken Ragu with Bacon can be seen as a fusion dish, combining traditional Italian cooking techniques with the universal appeal of bacon, thereby catering to diverse palates and preferences.
The Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts, 6 chicken thighs, or 1 1⁄2 lbs chicken tenders – cut into 1-inch cubes
- 6 oz thick bacon (about 3 strips, diced)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp. flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Step 1: In a large saucepan, cook bacon for 5-10 minutes until the fat has rendered out and the bacon is crispy.
Step 2: Stir onion and garlic, coat with bacon fat, and cook over low to medium heat for 5-8 minutes.
Step 3: Stir in flour, add chicken, and pour chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then lower heat to a simmer.
Step 4: Partially cover the pot and cook for approximately 30-40 minutes or until the chicken is tender.
Step 5: Using two forks, pull the chicken apart to the desired consistency.
Serve this Chicken Ragu with Bacon over pasta or rice, or enjoy it as a stew with some crusty bread on the side. It's sure to become a new favorite in your household, bringing everyone to the table for a filling and flavorful meal. Enjoy the rich taste and comforting textures of this wonderful dish!
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