Who doesn’t love the comforting flavors of a classic chicken parm? Our Ragu Chicken Parm takes this beloved dish to the next level with a rich, savory twist. It’s the perfect combination of crispy breaded chicken, gooey melted cheese, and the bold, hearty flavor of ragu sauce that ties it all together.
Ragu Chicken Parm Recipe
Making Ragu Chicken Parm at home is a delightful experience that combines bold flavors and comforting textures. Follow our detailed, step-by-step guide to recreate this mouthwatering dish.
Ingredients
Here’s what we need to get started:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 5–6 oz each)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour, seasoned with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups Ragu traditional sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for frying
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
This recipe comes together beautifully when followed methodically. Let’s get cooking!
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap.
- Using a meat mallet, pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch.
- Season both sides of the chicken lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Set Up the Breading Station
- Prepare three shallow bowls:
- Bowl 1: Add the seasoned flour.
- Bowl 2: Beat the eggs with 1 tablespoon water.
- Bowl 3: Mix the breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of the Parmesan cheese.
3. Bread the Chicken
- Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, ensuring an even coat.
- Dip into the beaten egg mixture, letting excess drip off.
- Press into the breadcrumb mixture, coating thoroughly.
4. Pan-Fry the Chicken
- Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Once the oil is shimmering, add the breaded chicken breasts.
- Fry for 3–4 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy.
- Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
5. Assemble the Dish
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Spread 1/2 cup Ragu sauce in the bottom of a baking dish.
- Arrange fried chicken breasts in a single layer over the sauce.
- Spoon remaining Ragu sauce over the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
- Sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan cheese and mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake to Perfection
- Sprinkle Italian seasoning over the dish.
- Bake uncovered for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Optional: Broil on high for 1–2 minutes for a golden-brown layer of cheese.
7. Garnish and Serve
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with freshly chopped basil leaves.
Quick Summary Table
| Step | Key Time/Details | Important Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Prepare Chicken | Pound to 1/2 inch thick | Season evenly for full flavor |
| Breading | 3-bowl method | Ensure full coating for crispiness |
| Pan-Fry | 3–4 mins per side | Oil should sizzle when ready |
| Baking | 20 mins at 375°F | Broil 1-2 mins for golden cheese |
Ingredients
To create our rich and flavorful Ragu Chicken Parm, we’ll need to gather simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients. Here’s a detailed list of everything required:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to an even thickness about ½ inch thick)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (seasoned with 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 ½ cups Italian-style breadcrumbs (for a perfectly herbed coating)
- ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese (mix into breadcrumbs for extra richness)
- 4 tablespoons olive oil (for pan-frying)
For the Sauce and Toppings:
- 2 cups Ragu traditional pasta sauce (rich and hearty for that iconic flavor)
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (melts beautifully for a gooey top)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for baked perfection)
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
Optional Side:
- 12 oz cooked spaghetti (to serve alongside for a complete meal setting)
- Extra Parmesan cheese (for dusting over the pasta)
Notes:
Make sure ingredients like chicken and cheese are fresh for the best taste. Using Ragu sauce gives this dish its signature savory depth, but feel free to choose your preferred variety if available.
Tools And Equipment
To create the perfect Ragu Chicken Parm, having the right tools and equipment is essential. A well-prepped kitchen ensures a smooth cooking process and consistently delicious results. Below is a detailed list of what we need, along with their specific roles in making this dish.
Essential Tools
- Meat mallet or rolling pin: For pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness.
- Mixing bowls (3): To set up the breading station — one for seasoned flour, one for beaten eggs, and one for breadcrumbs.
- Shallow dish or baking tray: To hold and organize breaded chicken before frying.
- Large skillet (non-stick preferred): For pan-frying the breaded chicken to golden perfection.
- Tongs: For safely flipping chicken while frying, preventing burns.
- 9×13-inch baking dish: For assembling the chicken parm with sauce and cheese before baking.
- Microplane or box grater: To freshly grate Parmesan cheese for the topping.
- Chef’s knife: For slicing optional garnishes like fresh basil.
- Cutting board: A must for prepping chicken and garnishes.
Cooking and Baking Equipment
- Stove: For pan-frying the chicken and reheating the sauce if needed.
- Oven: Preheated to 375°F for baking the assembled dish until bubbly and golden.
- Meat thermometer: Optional but useful to ensure the chicken reaches a safe 165°F internal temperature.
Additional Serving Items
- Serving platter or individual plates: To beautifully present your finished dish.
- Large saucepan: If serving with cooked spaghetti or another side, use this to boil and prepare the pasta.
Recommended Organization Table
| Tool/Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Meat mallet or rolling pin | Ensures chicken is evenly thin for cooking consistency. |
| Mixing bowls (3) | Sets up the breading station for flour, egg, and breadcrumb coating. |
| Large skillet | Fries the chicken to achieve a crispy golden crust. |
| 9×13-inch baking dish | Layers the breaded chicken, sauce, and cheese for baking. |
| Chef’s knife | Preps fresh garnishes like basil or other herbs. |
| Oven | Bakes the assembled dish to meld flavors and create a bubbly cheese topping. |
| Tongs | Safely flips chicken during frying, reducing risk of splatter or burns. |
Directions
Let’s dive into making this mouthwatering Ragu Chicken Parm. Follow these easy steps to prepare, cook, assemble, and bake this classic with a unique twist.
Prep
- Prepare the chicken: Place 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet to pound each piece to about ½ inch thickness for even cooking.
- Set up the breading station: Arrange three shallow bowls. Fill the first with 1 cup of seasoned flour, the second with 2 beaten eggs, and the third with 1½ cups of Italian-style breadcrumbs.
- Coat each pounded chicken breast:
- Lightly dredge it in the seasoned flour, shaking off the excess.
- Dip it into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
- Press both sides into the breadcrumbs until it’s fully covered.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
Cook
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Place the breaded chicken in the hot skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until crispy and golden brown (the chicken will bake further in the oven).
- Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate lined with a paper towel to drain any excess oil.
Assemble
- Pour 1 cup of Ragu Traditional Pasta Sauce evenly along the bottom of your prepared baking dish.
- Arrange the cooked chicken breasts over the sauce in a single layer.
- Spoon 1-1½ cups of Ragu sauce over the chicken, covering each piece generously.
- Sprinkle 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top, followed by ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
- Add an optional garnish of finely chopped fresh basil or parsley.
Bake
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden around the edges.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving.
- Serve your Ragu Chicken Parm over freshly cooked spaghetti, pairing the crispy chicken and rich, cheesy sauce with perfectly cooked pasta.
| Step | Time | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Prep | 15 minutes | Pound chicken evenly. Setup coating ingredients. |
| Cook | 6-8 minutes total | Golden-brown crust ensures crispiness. |
| Assemble | 10 minutes | Layer sauce, chicken, and cheese to perfection. |
| Bake | 20-25 minutes | Melt and bubble cheese until lightly golden. |
This method ensures a crispy, cheesy chicken parm bursting with the intense flavor of Ragu sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serving Ragu Chicken Parm is all about creating a harmonious plate that complements the bold, savory flavors of the dish. Whether you’re feeding the family or hosting guests, here are some ideas to elevate your presentation and complete the meal.
Pairing with Pasta
- For a classic touch, serve the chicken parm over a bed of freshly cooked spaghetti. Toss the noodles in a light drizzle of olive oil or coat them in extra Ragu sauce for added richness.
- Other pasta options include linguine, penne, or fettuccine. Each captures the sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is delicious.
Side Dishes for Balance
- A crisp Caesar salad or mixed greens with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
- Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks make excellent accompaniments, perfect for scooping up the extra Ragu sauce on your plate.
- Opt for roasted or steamed vegetables such as broccoli, zucchini, or green beans for lighter, fresh sides.
Garnish and Presentation
- Garnish each serving with fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan for a vibrant, polished look.
- Serve the dish in a large, shallow plate or bowl, which allows space for the sauce to pool alongside the pasta without overcrowding.
Beverage Pairings
- Pair the meal with a glass of Chianti or another dry red wine to enhance the Ragu sauce’s flavor profile. For a non-alcoholic option, iced tea or sparkling water with lemon works well.
Serving Suggestions Overview
Here’s a summary table of these ideas for quick reference:
| Category | Suggestions |
|---|---|
| Pasta Base | Spaghetti, linguine, penne, fettuccine |
| Side Dishes | Caesar salad, garlic bread, mixed greens, roasted vegetables |
| Garnishes | Fresh basil, grated Parmesan cheese |
| Beverage Pairings | Chianti, dry red wine, iced tea, sparkling water with lemon |
Entertaining Tip
If you’re hosting, keep the Ragu Chicken Parm warm in the oven on low heat until it’s time to serve. Arrange everything family-style so guests can help themselves and customize their plates. Adding fresh pasta and sauce directly to the table makes it interactive and inviting.
Make-Ahead And Storage Tips
Preparing Ragu Chicken Parm ahead of time or storing leftovers is easy and ensures we can enjoy this delicious dish without compromising on flavor. Follow these practical tips and methods to keep everything fresh and tasty.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the Chicken: Pound, bread, and cook the chicken cutlets until golden-brown. Let them cool completely before proceeding.
- Assemble Separately: Instead of baking right away, layer the cooked chicken, Ragu sauce, and cheeses in the baking dish, but do not bake. Cover the dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate: Store the assembled, unbaked casserole in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Avoid storing for longer to maintain optimal freshness.
- Bake When Needed: When ready to bake, preheat the oven, and bake as per the recipe instructions. You might need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to ensure even heating.
Pro Tip: If you don’t have time to assemble the entire dish, individually breaded and cooked chicken can be stored separately in the refrigerator and assembled later with fresh sauce and cheese.
Storage Tips for Leftovers
Proper storage keeps the bold flavors of the Ragu Chicken Parm intact. Here’s how to store leftovers like a pro:
Refrigerator
- Cool First: Allow the chicken parm to cool completely at room temperature before storing.
- Use Airtight Containers: Store individual portions or the entire leftover dish in airtight containers to keep it fresh.
- Shelf Life: The leftovers will keep well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
Freezing Leftovers
- Wrap Tightly: For best results, portion the chicken parm into individual servings and wrap them tightly using plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place wrapped portions into a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Label and Date: Write the storage date on the container for easy tracking.
- Freezer Shelf Life: These portions can remain fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating Tips
Reheating ensures that the incredible flavors of Ragu Chicken Parm are revived while maintaining its crispy texture and cheesy consistency.
| Reheat Method | Steps | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Oven (Recommended) | Preheat to 375°F. Cover with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes until heated through. Uncover for crisping. | Whole dish or large portions |
| Microwave | Place on a microwave-safe plate. Cover lightly and heat at medium power in 1-minute intervals. | Quick single servings |
| Stovetop | Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a little extra sauce to prevent drying. | Individual chicken cutlets only |
Pro Tip: Avoid reheating multiple times as it can dry out the chicken and alter the sauce’s flavor.
By following these Make-Ahead And Storage Tips, we can savor the comforting and hearty flavors of Ragu Chicken Parm even on our busiest days.
Conclusion
Ragu Chicken Parm is more than just a meal—it’s a comforting classic with a flavorful twist that brings everyone to the table. With its crispy chicken, rich sauce, and gooey melted cheese, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
By following our detailed guide, you’ll create a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen. Whether served over spaghetti or paired with your favorite sides, it’s sure to impress. Don’t forget to experiment with garnishes and pairings to make it uniquely yours. Let’s savor every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients do I need for Ragu Chicken Parm?
To make Ragu Chicken Parm, you’ll need chicken breasts, seasoned flour, beaten eggs, Italian-style breadcrumbs, Ragu traditional pasta sauce, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and optional garnishes like fresh basil. You can also serve it with cooked spaghetti for a complete meal.
Can I use a different sauce instead of Ragu?
Yes, while the recipe recommends Ragu traditional pasta sauce for its flavor, you can substitute it with any sauce of your choice. Just ensure it complements the dish for the best taste.
What kitchen tools are essential for this recipe?
You’ll need a meat mallet, mixing bowls, a large skillet, a baking dish, a stove, and an oven. These tools are crucial for prepping, cooking, assembling, and baking the perfect Ragu Chicken Parm.
How long does it take to make Ragu Chicken Parm?
The recipe takes approximately 15 minutes to prepare, 15 minutes to cook the chicken, and 15-20 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll need about 45-50 minutes to make this dish from scratch.
Can I make Ragu Chicken Parm ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the breaded chicken and assemble the dish (without baking) up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in the refrigerator, and bake it just before serving for a fresh and delicious meal.
How should I store leftovers?
Cool leftovers completely and store them in airtight containers. They can last 3-4 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer. Reheat in the oven for the best flavor and texture.
What sides pair well with Ragu Chicken Parm?
Ragu Chicken Parm pairs beautifully with spaghetti, linguine, or penne. Popular side dishes include Caesar salad, garlic bread, and roasted vegetables. Garnish with fresh basil for a flavorful finishing touch.
Can I freeze Ragu Chicken Parm?
Yes, you can freeze it. Ensure the dish is fully cooled before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
The oven is the best way to reheat Ragu Chicken Parm. Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until fully heated. For faster reheating, use a microwave, but the texture may differ slightly.
What’s a good beverage pairing for Ragu Chicken Parm?
Pair Ragu Chicken Parm with a glass of Chianti or other red wine for a classic combination. For non-alcoholic options, iced tea or sparkling water with a slice of lemon complements the dish beautifully.