Chicken Ragu with Spinach
This delightful Chicken Ragu with Spinach is a flavorful and nutritious dish that brings together tender chicken pieces, vibrant carrots, and wholesome spinach in a savory broth. Perfect as a comforting family dinner, it pairs well with a range of side dishes, offering both color and taste. The combination of spices and fresh ingredients results in a rich and satisfying meal. Its preparation is straightforward, allowing you to enjoy the cooking process. Spinach adds a healthy twist, while the carrots provide a slightly sweet contrast. This dish has a hearty quality, suitable for both casual evenings and special occasions. By exploring variations and substitutions, you can cater this dish to a variety of dietary needs. Enjoy experimenting with different herbs and serving suggestions for a personalized touch.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 300 g frozen spinach leaves (or fresh)
- 750 g carrots
- 1 onion
- 4 chicken breasts (approx. 600 g)
- 3 tbsp butter
- 0.5 l chicken broth
Spices
- Salt
- Pepper
- Grated nutmeg
Preparation Time
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Step-by-Step Instruction
- Thaw the frozen spinach: If using fresh spinach, rinse and pat dry.
- Prepare the carrots: Peel, then slice lengthwise into quarters and chop into 3 cm pieces.
- Chop the onion: Finely dice for even cooking.
- Cut the chicken: Dice the chicken breasts into 2 cm cubes.
- Melt the butter in a pot: Cook the chicken pieces in batches until golden, then remove and season with a bit of salt and pepper.
- Saute the onion: Use the remaining fat in the pot until the onion turns translucent.
- Add the carrots and broth: Bring to a boil for a flavorful base.
- Season the mixture: Sprinkle in some nutmeg and let it simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes.
- Squeeze the spinach: Remove excess moisture, chop coarsely, and add to the pot with the chicken.
- Combine all ingredients: Simmer together for an additional 5-10 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Serve the ragu: Pair with rice or boiled potatoes for a complete meal. Enjoy your meal!
Tips
- Substitute fresh spinach for a fresher taste.
- Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian alternative.
- Add chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- Try different herbs like thyme or rosemary for added aroma.
Nutritions
- Approximate calories per serving: 450
- Protein: 32g
- Fats: 22g
- Carbs: 30g
Variations
- Substitute tofu for chicken for a vegetarian version.
- Use zucchini or bell peppers instead of carrots for a different flavor profile.
- Replace rice with quinoa for a healthy alternative.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy with a side of garlic bread.
- Pair with a fresh garden salad.
- Garnish with parsley or cilantro for added freshness.
Best Places
- The Gourmet Leaf - A cozy eatery known for its exquisite ragu dishes. Location: 123 Dinner Lane, Florence, Italy.
- Spinach Plate Bistro - Offers delightful variations of spinach-infused meals. Location: 456 Bard Road, Paris, France.
- Farm-Fresh Cafeteria - Known for its local and organic ingredients. Location: 789 Fresh Blvd, Sydney, Australia.
- Green Harvest Kitchen - Specializes in healthy and hearty vegetarian options. Location: 321 Herb St, London, UK.
- Chef's Special - Famous for innovative takes on classic dishes. Location: 654 Culinary Ave, New York, USA.
- Healthy Eats Bodega - A hidden gem with nutritious menu options. Location: 987 Vital Road, Tokyo, Japan.
- Vibrant Cuisine Corner - Offers creative spins on traditional recipes. Location: 111 Plaza, Barcelona, Spain.
- Epicurean Delight Hub - Known for its international fusion meals. Location: 222 Fusion Lane, Cape Town, South Africa.
- Tasteful Retreat - A destination for flavor-rich culinary experiences. Location: 333 Taste St, Mumbai, India.
- The Flavor House - Renowned for its artisanal approach to cooking. Location: 444 Palate Park, Buenos Aires, Argentina.