Creamy Chicken and Herb Risotto
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Fancy a taste of Italy without forking out on a plane ticket? Have you ever wondered if you could nail a restaurant quality chicken risotto at home? This recipe makes it easy! Get ready for a bowl of pure comfort, packed with flavor!
Brief Overview
Risotto hails from Northern Italy, and its creamy texture is what makes it so famous. This Italian risotto recipe is not as scary as it seems.
This easy chicken risotto recipe will take about an hour to make, yielding four hearty servings. Perfect for a cosy weeknight in, or impressing at a dinner party!
Main Benefits
This creamy chicken risotto recipe is packed with protein. It is thanks to the chicken and calcium from the Parmesan.
The perfect comfort food risotto to serve to your friends. This chicken and herb risotto is one of those dishes that just makes you feel good.
From Bland to Grand: My Risotto Story
Honestly, my first attempt at risotto was a disaster. It was gluey, bland, and the rice was crunchy, argh!. Then, I learned the secret: patience and warm broth.
Now, my homemade risotto is a regular on our weeknight risotto menu.
This Parmesan risotto has a depth of flavour that's amazing. It's all thanks to a splash of white wine (optional, but highly recommended) and plenty of Parmesan cheese.
Trust me, once you master this Arborio rice risotto recipe , you will feel like a proper chef.
Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get Started!
Alright, so you're thinking about making my awesome chicken risotto ? Fantastic! Honestly, it's easier than you think. I'm not even joking! I remember the first time I made it, I was proper nervous.
But trust me, if I can do it, you totally can too.
Main Ingredients: The Stars of the Show
Let’s talk ingredients, shall we? Here's what you need to nail this creamy chicken risotto :
- Chicken: 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1 inch (2.5cm) cubes. Get good quality chicken. Free range or organic is always a winner, you know?
- Chicken Broth: 6 cups (1.4L) low-sodium. Proper chicken broth is the backbone of this Italian risotto recipe.
- Arborio Rice: 1.5 cups (300g) . This is non-negotiable.
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup (50g) grated, plus extra for serving. Freshly grated is the only way, innit? Trust me.
- Olive Oil: 3 tbsp (45ml) total.
- Yellow Onion: 1 medium . Finely chopped is key.
- Garlic: 2 cloves . Mince 'em good!
- Dry White Wine: 1/2 cup (120ml) (optional, but highly recommended). A Pinot Grigio is perfect.
- Unsalted Butter: 2 tbsp (30g)
- Fresh Parsley: 1/4 cup (15g) chopped
- Fresh Chives: 2 tbsp (12g) chopped
- Salt and pepper: To taste, obviously!
For the chicken, look for breasts that are plump, firm, and have a healthy pink color. Avoid anything that looks pale or smells funny.
When it comes to the broth, low-sodium is best so you can control the saltiness yourself. Plus, the flavour of good chicken stock elevates any homemade risotto .
Seasoning Notes: Spice Up Your Life
This chicken and herb risotto relies on simple but effective seasoning. A classic combo of salt and pepper does wonders.
Parsley and chives add a fresh, herby note that complements the chicken beautifully. You can use dried herbs if that's all you have but use half the quantity of fresh ones
For a bit of extra oomph, try a pinch of red pepper flakes. If you're feeling fancy, a drizzle of truffle oil at the end is banging!
Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple
You don't need loads of fancy gear for this easy chicken risotto recipe . Here's what's essential:
- Large, heavy bottomed pot or Dutch oven.
- Large skillet or frying pan.
- Ladle.
- Wooden spoon.
If you don't have a Dutch oven, a regular heavy bottomed pot will do just fine. And a big spoon is really all you need!. Weeknight risotto just got way easier, right?
Right, you're all set to make this amazing Arborio rice risotto recipe ! Go get 'em.
Creamy Chicken and Herb Risotto: A Taste of Italy
Honestly, who doesn’t love a proper comfort food risotto ? This Creamy Chicken and Herb Risotto is like a hug in a bowl.
Think tender chicken, creamy Arborio rice, all swimming in a rich, Parmesan -infused broth. I reckon this is the perfect dinner party risotto , but easy enough for a weeknight risotto too.
You know, one of those dishes that just makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside. I always say, if you can stir, you can make risotto! And I'm going to show you exactly how.
Prep Steps: Your Mise en Place Matters
First things first, essential mise en place is key . Chop 1.5 lbs (680g) chicken into bite sized pieces. Dice one medium yellow onion.
Mince two cloves of garlic. Grate 1/2 cup (50g) of proper Parmesan, not the stuff in a shaker! Chop your parsley and chives fresh is always best.
Measure out 1.5 cups (300g) Arborio rice and 6 cups (1.4L) of low-sodium chicken broth. Now, warm the broth in a separate pot.
Seriously, don’t skip this step! It makes a huge difference. Time saving tip : You can chop the veg earlier in the day and store it in the fridge.
step-by-step to Creamy Chicken Risotto Heaven
- Season your chicken with 1/2 tsp (2.5ml) salt and 1/4 tsp (1.25ml) pepper. Heat 1 tbsp (15ml) olive oil in a pan. Brown the chicken until cooked through about 8 minutes , or until it reaches 165° F ( 74° C) . Set aside.
- In your big risotto pot, heat 2 tbsp (30ml) olive oil over medium heat. Sauté that chopped onion until it's soft and translucent, about 5 minutes . Add the minced garlic and cook until you can smell it about 1 minute . Oh, the aroma!
- Chuck in 1.5 cups (300g) of Arborio rice . Toast it for 1- 2 minutes , stirring. It should look a bit translucent around the edges.
- (Optional) Pour in 1/2 cup (120ml) dry white wine like Pinot Grigio. Stir until it's absorbed. This really elevates the flavour of the Italian risotto recipe .
- Ladle in 1 cup of warm chicken broth. Stir constantly until it's absorbed. Keep going, one cup at a time, stirring, stirring, stirring. It takes around 20- 25 minutes to get that lovely creaminess.
- Stir in the cooked chicken, 1/2 cup (50g) of grated Parmesan, 2 tbsp (30g) butter, and your chopped parsley and chives. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately, garnished with more Parmesan. Boom! You've nailed it.
Pro Tips for the Best Risotto Ever
Want to really impress? My Nonna always told me that the secret to a truly great homemade risotto is all in the stirring.
Don't let it catch on the bottom! Also, don't overcook the rice you want it al dente , with a slight bite.
A common mistake? Adding too much broth at once. Patience, my friend, patience! And finally, freshly grated Parmesan is non-negotiable.
Trust me on this. For a easy chicken risotto recipe you can prepare the chicken in advance and chop your vegetables, storing them in the fridge in preparation for the next steps.
.
Recipe Notes for Your Creamy Chicken Risotto Masterpiece
Alright, you're about to embark on a culinary adventure with this chicken risotto recipe. Honestly, it's easier than you think! But like any good dish, a few extra pointers can elevate your homemade risotto from "meh" to "OMG, this is amazing!".
So, let's dive into some essential tips and tricks.
Serving Up Some Style: Plating and Presentation
Presentation is key, right? Think about how you want to wow your guests. I like to serve my creamy chicken risotto in warmed bowls.
Top it with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan risotto , a drizzle of good olive oil, and a sprig of parsley.
For a bit of fancy, you could also add a few shavings of Parmesan. If you want to be extra, a side of crusty bread is always a winner.
As for drinks, a crisp, dry white wine like Pinot Grigio complements the richness of the Italian risotto recipe perfectly.
A simple green salad also adds a fresh contrast.
Storing Like a Pro
Got leftovers? No worries! This chicken and herb risotto keeps well. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge.
It's good for up to 3 days . When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up.
Microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between, or gently heat it in a saucepan over low heat. Freezing isn't ideal, as the texture can change.
Remix Your Risotto: Variations
Want to mix things up? You can totally adapt this recipe!
- Dietary Adaptations: For a dairy-free version, skip the butter and Parmesan, and use nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavour. To make it gluten-free, just ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free.
- Seasonal Ingredient Swaps: In the autumn, try adding roasted butternut squash for a bit of sweetness. In the spring, fresh asparagus or peas work a treat. Just use what's fresh and in season.
Nutrition Lowdown
This easy chicken risotto recipe is packed with protein from the chicken. It also provides carbohydrates for energy. Arborio rice is naturally gluten-free and provides some fibre.
Parmesan cheese adds calcium. A serving of this comfort food risotto contains roughly 550 calories, 45g protein, 25g fat, 40g carbohydrates, 2g fiber, 3g sugar, and 700mg sodium.
Keep in mind that this is an estimate. The actual nutritional information will vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes.
And that's it! With a little bit of love and attention, you'll be serving up bowls of dinner party risotto that would make Nonna proud.
Don't be scared to experiment and make it your own. Now go on, get cooking and enjoy every bite of this yummy weeknight risotto .
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the secret to getting that perfectly creamy texture in my chicken risotto? Is it like, actual magic?
Not magic, but close! The key is consistently stirring the Arborio rice as you gradually add warm chicken broth. This constant stirring releases the starch in the rice, creating a naturally creamy sauce. Think of it like making a béchamel patience and persistence are your best mates.
Can I prep any of the ingredients for this chicken risotto recipe ahead of time to save a bit of time later?
Absolutely! You can chop the vegetables (onion, garlic, herbs) and cube the chicken breasts in advance. Just store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. Warming your chicken broth is also a good shout.
However, it's best to cook the risotto fresh for the best flavour and texture once it's made, it's best eaten straight away!
What kind of wine should I use in chicken risotto, and is it really necessary? I don't want to end up with a hangover while cooking!
A dry white wine, like a Pinot Grigio or Soave, works brilliantly to add a touch of acidity and depth of flavour to chicken risotto. If you don't have any wine on hand, or prefer not to use it, simply omit it and add an extra splash of chicken broth, or even a squeeze of lemon juice for a bit of zing.
No hangover required!
Help! I've made too much chicken risotto. Can I store leftovers, and how do I reheat it without it turning into a gloopy mess?
Leftover chicken risotto is best enjoyed within 1-2 days. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or water to the risotto in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently until heated through.
You might need to add a knob of butter and a bit more Parmesan to bring it back to its original creamy glory. Microwaving is an option, but the hob is better.
I'm feeling a bit adventurous. What variations can I try to spice up my chicken risotto?
Fancy getting creative? Try adding some sautéed mushrooms for a earthy twist, or some roasted vegetables like butternut squash or asparagus for added flavor and texture. A pinch of saffron threads can also elevate the risotto with a beautiful color and subtle aroma.
Don't be afraid to experiment with different herbs as well rosemary or thyme would be delicious.
Is chicken risotto a healthy meal, or is it a bit of a treat? I'm trying to watch my waistline, you see!
Chicken risotto can be part of a balanced diet, but it's worth being mindful of portion sizes. You can make it healthier by using low-sodium chicken broth, lean chicken breast, and plenty of vegetables. A smaller portion alongside a big green salad makes a perfect and balanced meal. Treat yourself, but in moderation!
Creamy Chicken And Herb Risotto
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 550 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 25g |
| Fiber | 2g |
