Creamy Chicken Risotto is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken, creamy arborio rice, and a rich, flavorful broth. Infused with garlic, Parmesan, and a touch of white wine, this classic Italian-inspired dish is perfect for a cozy dinner. While it may seem fancy, this recipe is simple enough to make at home for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Luxuriously creamy: The creamy texture of the rice makes this dish irresistible.
• Full of flavor: Garlic, Parmesan, and white wine create a rich and satisfying taste.
• Customizable: Add vegetables, herbs, or extra protein to make it your own.
• Perfect for any occasion: Fancy enough for dinner guests but easy enough for a weeknight.
• Comfort food classic: Warm, filling, and oh-so-delicious!

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Arborio rice
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cubed)
• Chicken broth (warm)
• Dry white wine (optional)
• Onion (finely chopped)
• Garlic (minced)
• Parmesan cheese (grated)
• Olive oil
• Butter
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)
• Salt
• Black pepper

Directions

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

1. Season and cook the chicken:
   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
   • Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Risotto Base

1. Sauté the aromatics:
   • In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Toast the rice:
   • Add the arborio rice to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the rice is lightly toasted and coated in butter.
3. Deglaze with wine:
   • Pour in the white wine, if using, and stir until the wine is mostly absorbed.

Step 3: Cook the Risotto

1. Add the broth gradually:
   • Add the warm chicken broth, 1 cup at a time, stirring frequently. Allow the rice to absorb most of the liquid before adding more. Continue this process until the rice is tender and creamy (about 20-25 minutes).
2. Add the chicken and cheese:
   • Stir the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Add the Parmesan cheese and mix until melted and creamy. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

• Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. Pair with a green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe serves 4-6.
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Add vegetables: Stir in spinach, peas, asparagus, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
• Herb boost: Add fresh thyme, rosemary, or sage for additional flavor.
• Dairy-free option: Substitute the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or a dairy-free alternative.
• Seafood version: Replace chicken with shrimp or scallops for a seafood twist.
• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to restore the creamy texture. Avoid microwaving as it may dry out the risotto.

FAQs

What is arborio rice?

Arborio rice is a short-grain rice with a high starch content, giving risotto its signature creamy texture.

Can I use another type of rice?

For the best results, use arborio or another risotto rice like carnaroli. Regular rice won’t achieve the same creamy consistency.

Do I have to use white wine?

No, you can skip the wine and use extra chicken broth instead.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Risotto is best enjoyed fresh, but you can partially cook it, stop just before the rice is fully tender, and finish cooking with broth just before serving.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, leftover or rotisserie chicken works well. Add it during the last few minutes of cooking to heat through.

Why do I need to warm the broth?

Warm broth helps the rice cook evenly and maintains the creamy texture of the risotto.

How do I prevent risotto from becoming too thick?

Add broth gradually and stir often to keep the rice creamy without drying out.

What sides go well with this dish?

A crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables pair perfectly with risotto.

How do I know when the risotto is done?

The rice should be tender with a slight bite (al dente) and the consistency creamy, not soupy.

Can I freeze risotto?

Risotto doesn’t freeze well, as the texture can become grainy when reheated. It’s best to enjoy it fresh or as leftovers within a few days.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken Risotto is a comforting, flavorful dish that feels like a restaurant-quality meal made right in your own kitchen. With tender chicken, creamy rice, and rich Parmesan, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. Customize it with your favorite additions, and enjoy a delicious, satisfying dinner that’s sure to become a household favorite!

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• Author: Mariem
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian-Inspired

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Description

This Creamy Chicken Risotto is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken pieces with rich, creamy rice infused with Parmesan and garlic. Perfect for a hearty family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is as elegant as it is satisfying.

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Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Risotto:

• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional, or substitute with extra broth)
• 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped

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Instructions

• Cook the Chicken:
  • Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Season the chicken with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
• Sauté the Aromatics:
  • In the same skillet, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil or butter. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 2 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
• Toast the Rice:
  • Stir in the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly toasted and coated with the oil.
• Deglaze with Wine:
  • Pour in the white wine, if using, and cook until mostly evaporated.
• Cook the Risotto:
  • Add 1 ladle of the warm chicken broth to the rice, stirring constantly until absorbed. Repeat this process, adding broth one ladle at a time, until the rice is tender and creamy (about 18-20 minutes).
• Make it Creamy:
  • Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and cooked chicken. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors.
• Serve and Garnish:
  • Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve warm and enjoy!

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Notes

• For a flavor boost, sauté mushrooms or spinach alongside the onion and garlic.
• If you don’t have Arborio rice, use another short-grain rice like Carnaroli.
• Adjust the creaminess by adding more broth or cream at the end of cooking.