Chicken and Mushroom Risotto Recipe

Introduction

Chicken and Mushroom Risotto is a comforting and creamy dish that combines tender pieces of chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a rich, velvety rice base. This flavorful meal is perfect for a cozy dinner, special occasions, or a weeknight treat when you’re craving something satisfying and delicious. The combination of sautéed chicken, mushrooms, and a savory broth creates a dish that is both hearty and comforting, with a texture that is simply irresistible.

The process of making risotto might seem daunting at first, but with the right technique, you’ll be able to prepare this dish with ease. The slow addition of stock to the rice and constant stirring is key to achieving that signature creamy consistency. In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step of the way, offering tips for success and variations to make this dish your own.

Why You’ll Love Chicken and Mushroom Risotto

• Comforting and Hearty: Risotto is the ultimate comfort food, and this version with chicken and mushrooms brings a satisfying, warming element to your meal. It’s creamy and indulgent, with the chicken providing protein and the mushrooms adding depth of flavor.
• Rich and Flavorful: The combination of sautéed chicken and mushrooms cooked with garlic, white wine, and chicken broth creates a dish packed with umami flavors. The slow cooking process enhances the taste of the ingredients, making each bite delicious.
• Perfectly Creamy: The rice in risotto absorbs the broth gradually, releasing its starches to create a creamy, luxurious texture without the need for heavy cream or butter. The result is a rich, velvety dish that doesn’t feel overly greasy.
• Versatile: This recipe is easily customizable. You can add other vegetables like peas or spinach, switch up the types of mushrooms, or use different herbs and spices to suit your taste.
• Impressive and Elegant: Despite being a simple dish, Chicken and Mushroom Risotto has an elegant presentation that’s perfect for dinner parties or special gatherings. It’s a dish that’s sure to impress your guests while being relatively easy to prepare.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 400-450 calories per serving, depending on portion sizes and ingredients.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 400-450 kcal
• Fat: 10-12g
• Carbohydrates: 50-55g
• Protein: 25-30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 4-6g

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Mushroom Risotto:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ cups Arborio rice
• 1 cup white wine (optional, can substitute with additional broth)
• 4 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms (such as cremini or button mushrooms)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional Add-ins:

• 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
• 1 teaspoon thyme or rosemary (for additional herb flavor)
• ¼ cup heavy cream (for extra creaminess)
• Zest of one lemon (for brightness)

Special Equipment

While preparing Chicken and Mushroom Risotto doesn’t require a lot of special equipment, there are a few tools that will help you achieve the best results:

1. Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: A large skillet or sauté pan is essential for cooking the chicken and vegetables and allowing enough space for the risotto to cook evenly.
2. Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: A wooden spoon or silicone spatula is the best tool for stirring the risotto. You’ll need to stir constantly to release the starch from the rice and achieve the creamy texture.
3. Ladle: A ladle is perfect for adding the hot broth to the risotto gradually. It’s important to add the broth in small amounts to allow the rice to absorb the liquid.
4. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are important in risotto to ensure the proper balance of ingredients, so make sure to have a good set of measuring cups and spoons.
5. Sharp Knife: A sharp knife is necessary for chopping the chicken, vegetables, and herbs. This will make prep work quicker and safer.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the pan and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is browned on all sides and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

2. Cook the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant. Be sure to scrape any browned bits off the bottom of the pan to incorporate the flavors into the dish.

Next, add the sliced mushrooms to the pan and cook for 5-6 minutes, until the mushrooms have softened and released their moisture. The mushrooms will add a deep, earthy flavor to the risotto.

3. Toast the Rice

Add the Arborio rice to the pan and stir it into the onion and mushroom mixture. Toast the rice for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This step helps the rice release its starches, which will give the risotto its signature creamy texture.

4. Deglaze with Wine

Once the rice is toasted, pour in the white wine (if using), and stir the mixture. Let the wine cook off for about 1-2 minutes, until it has mostly evaporated. This adds a lovely depth of flavor to the risotto, but if you prefer, you can skip the wine and add a bit more chicken broth instead.

5. Add the Broth

Begin adding the warm chicken broth to the rice, one ladle at a time. Stir constantly as you add the broth, allowing the rice to absorb the liquid before adding more. Continue this process until the rice is tender and creamy, about 20-25 minutes. Be patient and stir frequently—this is what gives the risotto its signature texture. You may not need all of the broth, so check the texture of the rice as you go.

6. Finish the Risotto

Once the rice is cooked to your desired consistency, add the cooked chicken back to the pan, stirring to incorporate it into the risotto. Add the butter and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the butter has melted and the cheese is fully incorporated into the risotto. The risotto should be creamy and have a rich, velvety texture.

Taste the risotto and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed. If you like, you can also add a squeeze of lemon juice or lemon zest to brighten up the flavors.

7. Serve and Garnish

Spoon the Chicken and Mushroom Risotto onto plates and garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

Tips for Perfect Chicken and Mushroom Risotto

• Use Warm Broth: Always use warm or hot broth when making risotto. Adding cold broth to the rice will cause the cooking process to slow down and prevent the rice from releasing its starch properly.
• Stir Constantly: Stirring the risotto regularly is key to creating the creamy texture. This helps the rice release its starch, making the dish velvety and rich.
• Don’t Rush the Process: Making risotto takes time and patience. The gradual addition of broth and constant stirring is essential for getting the right texture, so be sure not to rush through the steps.
• Taste and Adjust: Since risotto doesn’t require much seasoning at the start, always taste it towards the end and adjust the seasoning to your liking. A squeeze of lemon juice or a bit more Parmesan can make a huge difference.
• Use Fresh Chicken: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh chicken breast rather than pre-cooked or frozen chicken. The fresh chicken will cook more evenly and add a juicier bite to the dish.
• Add Protein Variations: You can easily add other proteins to this dish, such as shrimp, pancetta, or even a bit of sausage, to switch things up. The risotto is versatile and can be customized with different proteins.

Variations of Chicken and Mushroom Risotto

• Chicken and Spinach Risotto: Add a couple of handfuls of fresh spinach to the risotto just before serving. The spinach will wilt into the dish, adding color, nutrients, and a slightly bitter contrast to the rich, creamy rice.
• Chicken and Asparagus Risotto: Stir in some blanched or grilled asparagus at the end of cooking for a fresh, slightly crunchy texture. Asparagus pairs beautifully with the creamy risotto.
• Lemon Herb Chicken and Mushroom Risotto: Add lemon zest and fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil to the risotto for a bright and fragrant twist. The lemon will cut through the richness and add a fresh, summery note.
• Mushroom Risotto with Truffle Oil: For a luxurious version of this dish, drizzle a little bit of truffle oil on top of the finished risotto just before serving. The earthy truffle flavor pairs perfectly with the mushrooms.

Storage and Shelf Life

Chicken and Mushroom Risotto is best enjoyed fresh, as the texture of the rice can change once it cools. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

To reheat, add a bit of broth or water to the risotto and heat it over low heat, stirring frequently, until it reaches the desired temperature. Be sure to add extra liquid, as risotto can become too thick as it sits.

For longer storage, risotto can be frozen, though the texture may change slightly upon reheating. To freeze, place the risotto in a freezer-safe container, and it will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Chicken and Mushroom Risotto

Pair this rich and creamy risotto with some complementary sides to complete the meal:

• Side Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with greens like arugula or spinach and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the risotto.
• Garlic Bread: Serve with crusty garlic bread for a comforting addition that’s perfect for dipping into the creamy risotto.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, or butternut squash make a delicious side that pairs perfectly with the earthy mushrooms in the risotto.
• Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, complements the flavors of the chicken and mushrooms in the risotto.

Print

Conclusion

Chicken and Mushroom Risotto is the perfect dish for any occasion, combining tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and creamy rice in a way that’s both satisfying and comforting. With a few simple steps and tips, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen. Whether you serve it for a weeknight dinner or as the star of a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress with its rich flavors and creamy texture. Enjoy the warmth and indulgence of Chicken and Mushroom Risotto—it’s a dish that’s both luxurious and simple to make!