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Chicken Risotto Recipe

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This creamy Chicken Risotto is a comforting and flavorful dish made with tender chicken thighs, Arborio rice, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that’s gluten-free and easy to make, while also elegant enough for special occasions. Enjoy a rich and indulgent dish with the perfect balance of protein, carbs, and vegetables in every bite.

Ingredients

4 skinless, boneless chicken thighs

1 cup Arborio rice

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup dry white wine

4 cups chicken broth (hot)

2 tbsp butter

1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (room temperature)

1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, chopped)

2 cups fresh spinach

Spices: 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp chili powder, 1 tsp Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Season the chicken thighs with smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, chili powder, and Italian seasoning. Sear in a hot pan until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side. Set aside.

  • In a separate pan, sauté the garlic in 1 tbsp of oil from the sun-dried tomatoes until fragrant, about 1 minute.

  • Add the Arborio rice and toast lightly for 2 minutes. Deglaze the pan with white wine, scraping up any bits from the bottom.

  • Gradually add the hot chicken broth, stirring frequently, letting the rice absorb the liquid before adding more.

  • Once the rice is tender and creamy (about 18-20 minutes), stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and spinach. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts.

  • Fold in butter and Parmesan cheese to achieve a rich, creamy texture.

  • Serve the risotto with the seared chicken on top and garnish with extra Parmesan if desired.

Notes

  • You can substitute chicken thighs with breasts or rotisserie chicken for quicker prep.

  • Spinach can be replaced with kale or other leafy greens.

  • Try adding vegetables like mushrooms or asparagus for variety.

  • To reheat leftovers, warm gently in a skillet with a little broth or water to restore its creamy texture.