Chicken and Veg Risotto Recipe for Easy Weeknight Dinners

Risotto is the ultimate comfort food that combines creamy textures with rich flavors, and adding chicken and vegetables turns it into a wholesome, satisfying meal perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this chicken and veg risotto recipe is sure to impress.

It’s packed with tender chicken pieces, fresh seasonal vegetables, and arborio rice cooked to perfection in a savory broth. The magic lies in the slow stirring and gradual addition of liquid, which creates that signature creamy consistency without any cream.

Ready to learn how to make this delicious dish that’s both elegant and easy? Let’s dive in!

This recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize with your favorite vegetables or swap chicken for another protein. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some extra veggies without sacrificing flavor.

If you love hearty, one-pot meals that feel luxurious but don’t require hours in the kitchen, this risotto will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken and veg risotto is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Here’s why this recipe stands out:

• Rich and creamy texture: The arborio rice slowly absorbs flavorful broth, creating a luscious, velvety base.
• Loaded with nutritious vegetables: A medley of colorful veggies boosts the dish’s health quotient.
• Protein-packed: Tender chicken adds sustenance and makes it a complete meal.
• Customizable: Easily swap veggies or add herbs to suit your taste.
• Perfect for all occasions: Impress guests or enjoy a cozy night in.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup arborio rice
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
• 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
• 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, bell peppers, zucchini)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Equipment

• Large deep skillet or saucepan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Chef’s knife and cutting board
• Ladle for adding broth
• Grater for Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Prepare the broth: Heat the chicken broth in a saucepan over low heat. Keep it warm while you cook the risotto.
2. Sauté aromatics: In your skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Toast the rice: Add the arborio rice to the skillet and stir constantly for 2 minutes. This step helps the rice to absorb flavors and maintain its texture.
4. Deglaze with wine: Pour in the white wine (if using) and stir until it has mostly evaporated, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add broth gradually: Using the ladle, add about 1/2 cup of warm chicken broth to the rice. Stir continuously until the liquid is almost fully absorbed. Repeat this process, adding broth little by little, stirring often. This should take about 18-20 minutes.
6. Add vegetables and chicken: When the rice is halfway cooked (after about 10 minutes), stir in your mixed vegetables and diced chicken. Continue adding broth and stirring until rice is tender but still has a slight bite.
7. Finish with butter and cheese: Once the rice is cooked to your liking, remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the butter and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top and serve immediately while warm and creamy.

Tips & Variations

“The key to perfect risotto is patience and constant stirring to release the starch from the rice, creating that creamy texture.”

• Vegetable swaps: Try mushrooms, asparagus, or spinach for different flavors and textures.
• Protein options: Substitute chicken with shrimp, turkey, or tofu for a twist.
• Herbs and spices: Add fresh thyme, rosemary, or a pinch of saffron for aromatic depth.
• Make it vegan: Use vegetable broth, skip the cheese and butter, and add nutritional yeast instead.
• Use leftover chicken: This recipe works wonderfully with pre-cooked or leftover chicken, making it super convenient.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This chicken and veg risotto is a hearty dish that pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. A glass of chilled white wine complements the creamy texture beautifully.

For an extra touch, serve with garlic bread or a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts on top. If you want to explore more comforting chicken dishes, check out our Pcos Chicken Recipes for healthy and delicious ideas.

For a delicious vegetable side, try the Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe — it’s a great way to add even more color and nutrition to your dinner table.

And if you’re looking for a warming, protein-packed alternative meal, consider the Bariatric Meatloaf Recipe, a fantastic choice for meal prepping.

Conclusion

There’s nothing quite like the comforting creaminess of a well-made risotto, and with this chicken and vegetable version, you get a perfectly balanced meal full of flavor and nutrients. This recipe is ideal for anyone looking for a delicious yet straightforward dinner that comes together in one pan.

From the tender chicken to the vibrant veggies and rich Parmesan, every bite brings a taste of home-cooked goodness. Plus, the flexibility of this dish means you can adjust it to your preferences or what’s in season.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this risotto offers a rewarding cooking experience and a delicious meal you’ll want to make again and again.

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