If you have been craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Chicken Risotto Recipe is your new best friend. Creamy, comforting, and bursting with layers of flavor, this Italian classic transforms simple pantry staples into an impressive and satisfying meal. With tender chicken, velvety Arborio rice cooked to perfection, and the subtle richness of Parmesan cheese, you’ll find yourself reaching for seconds and eager to share this gem with everyone you know.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in building the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color, making it simple yet superb. From the oh-so-creamy Arborio rice to the fresh chicken and aromatic aromatics, these components work together beautifully.
- Olive oil: A good quality olive oil adds a mild fruitiness and helps sauté the aromatics perfectly.
- Small onion (finely chopped): Brings a subtle sweetness that is the base for the risotto’s flavor.
- Garlic cloves (minced): Adds a gentle kick and savory depth without overwhelming.
- Arborio rice: This short-grain rice gives the risotto that signature creamy texture as it slowly releases starch.
- Dry white wine: Provides acidity that balances the richness and infuses a subtle complexity.
- Low-sodium chicken broth (warmed): Essential for cooking the rice evenly and layering umami notes, warming it helps maintain the cooking temperature.
- Cooked chicken breast (shredded or chopped): Adds protein and heartiness while blending effortlessly into the creamy risotto.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the dish for a salty, nutty finish that elevates every bite.
- Unsalted butter: Enriches the texture, giving the risotto that silky, luxurious mouthfeel.
- Salt and black pepper: To season perfectly and bring all flavors into harmony.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional garnish): For a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness.
How to Make Chicken Risotto Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the base
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook it gently for about 4 minutes until it becomes translucent and soft—this sweet aroma sets the stage for everything to come. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute to release its fragrant goodness without letting it burn.
Step 2: Toast the rice
Add the Arborio rice to the pan, stirring constantly for about 2 minutes. Toasting the rice like this is an essential step—it awakens the grains and helps them maintain their perfect chewy texture while allowing them to absorb all the liquid beautifully.
Step 3: Add the wine
Pour in the dry white wine and stir as it simmers, letting it absorb mostly into the rice. This step introduces a subtle tang and a hint of elegance, preparing your taste buds for the creamy wonder that is about to unfold.
Step 4: Gradually add warm broth
Begin adding the warmed chicken broth one ladle at a time, stirring constantly. Wait until each ladleful is mostly absorbed before adding the next. This slow and steady process releases the rice’s starches, creating that signature risotto creaminess. Keep doing this for 18 to 20 minutes until the rice is tender but still has a slight bite.
Step 5: Incorporate the chicken
Once the rice reaches the perfect creamy consistency, stir in the cooked chicken breast. Let it warm through for an additional 2 to 3 minutes so the flavors meld deliciously.
Step 6: Finish with cheese and butter
Remove the pan from heat and lovingly mix in the grated Parmesan cheese and butter. These final touches add richness and silkiness to the risotto while seasoning it perfectly with a sprinkle of salt and black pepper to taste.
How to Serve Chicken Risotto Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a vibrant touch and fresh contrast to the rich, creamy flavors. You can also add a drizzle of good quality olive oil or a zest of lemon to brighten the dish if you like.
Side Dishes
Pair this risotto with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to bring some crunchy texture and herbaceous notes. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or roasted asparagus pairs beautifully and keeps the meal balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Chicken Risotto Recipe in charming shallow bowls to showcase its creamy texture topped with a little extra Parmesan and parsley. For dinner parties, you can even scoop it into Parmesan crust cups or bake it briefly with a crunchy breadcrumb topping for a delightful twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The risotto will thicken as it cools—perfect for enjoying the next day stirred with a bit of extra broth or water to loosen it up.
Freezing
Although risotto’s creamy texture is best fresh, you can freeze leftovers for up to a month. Use a freezer-safe container and leave some room for expansion. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat risotto slowly over low heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently and adding a splash of broth or water to bring back that creamy silkiness. This gentle attention revives the dish beautifully without losing texture or flavor.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of rice for this Chicken Risotto Recipe?
Arborio rice is best for risotto because of its high starch content, which creates that creamy texture. Using other types of rice will affect the dish’s signature creaminess, so it’s recommended to stick with Arborio or similar short-grain varieties.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and leave out the chicken. You can add mushrooms, peas, or other vegetables to maintain heartiness and flavor.
Can I make this dish ahead of time for a party?
You can prepare the risotto up to the point of adding the cheese and butter, then cool it quickly and refrigerate. Reheat gently with added broth, then finish with cheese and butter just before serving for best results.
What wine pairs well with Chicken Risotto Recipe when serving?
A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc matches this dish wonderfully, complementing its richness without overpowering the delicate flavors.
Can I use leftover roast chicken for this recipe?
Yes! Leftover roast chicken or even rotisserie chicken works perfectly here. Just shred it and add it in toward the end of cooking for a quick, tasty twist on this comforting risotto.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Risotto Recipe is truly one of those dishes that brings warmth and satisfaction with every spoonful. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy a little taste of Italy at home. So grab your ingredients, embrace the gentle stirring rhythm, and savor the delicious comfort of this creamy treat—your future self will thank you!
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Chicken Risotto Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Chicken Risotto recipe offers a creamy, comforting Italian classic that’s both flavorful and easy to prepare. Tender Arborio rice is slowly cooked on the stovetop with aromatic onions, garlic, white wine, and warm chicken broth, then enriched with shredded chicken, Parmesan cheese, and butter for a rich, satisfying meal perfect for weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth, kept warm
- 1 1/2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for about 4 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more to release its fragrance without browning.
- Toast the Rice: Add the Arborio rice and toast it for 2 minutes, stirring frequently to coat the grains with oil and lightly heat them, which helps develop flavor and texture.
- Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the dry white wine and stir until mostly absorbed by the rice, enhancing the dish with subtle acidity and depth.
- Add Broth Gradually: Start adding the warm chicken broth one ladle at a time. Stir constantly and allow each addition to be fully absorbed before adding the next. Continue this process for about 18–20 minutes, or until the rice becomes tender and creamy.
- Incorporate Chicken: Stir in the cooked shredded or chopped chicken and cook for another 2–3 minutes, ensuring the chicken is heated through and well combined.
- Finish the Risotto: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and unsalted butter. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve: Serve the risotto hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley if desired for a burst of color and freshness.
Notes
- For extra flavor, homemade chicken broth is recommended.
- Add sautéed mushrooms, peas, or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking to introduce texture and additional nutrients.
- Rotisserie chicken is a convenient shortcut that works well in this recipe.
