Name: Chicken and Mushroom Risotto Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil or butter; 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, diced; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1 small onion or shallot, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 8 oz mushrooms (cremini or button), sliced; 1½ cups Arborio rice; ½ cup dry white wine (optional); 5–6 cups warm chicken broth; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

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If you’re looking for a comforting, creamy meal that truly feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Chicken and Mushroom Risotto Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine perfectly tender pieces of chicken mingling with earthy mushrooms and velvety Arborio rice, all simmered slowly in savory broth and finished with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. This classic Italian-inspired dish brings cozy elegance to your dinner table and makes every bite a delightful experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows eleven clear or white bowls and a glass cup arranged on a white marbled surface. The largest bowl contains sliced white mushrooms with brown edges, sitting in the upper right. Below it, a small white bowl holds finely chopped white onions. Near the bottom center, another white bowl is filled with light brown almond meal, and directly below it is a smaller white bowl with a piece of yellow butter. To the left of the butter, a round cup is filled with raw cubed chicken pieces that are a light pink color. Near the top left, a clear glass jug contains pale yellow broth, and next to it is a white bowl with dry oats. A small glass bowl with green herbs and a tiny glass with brown seeds sit near the center. Finally, a small container of white powder is also present, completing the neatly arranged ingredients. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are simple yet essential, each contributing to the beautiful harmony of flavors and textures that make this risotto so unforgettable. From the aromatic garlic to the creamy Parmesan, every element plays a starring role.

2 tbsp olive oil or butter: For a rich base that starts the cooking process with flavor and helps brown the chicken perfectly.
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, diced: Tender protein that soaks up all the delicious flavors throughout cooking.
Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to bring out the best in every ingredient.
1 small onion or shallot, finely chopped: Offers sweetness and depth to the base of the risotto.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a pungent kick that complements mushrooms beautifully.
8 oz mushrooms (cremini or button), sliced: Earthy and meaty, these bring satisfying texture and umami depth.
1½ cups Arborio rice: The star grain that creates the creamy, luscious texture risotto is known for.
½ cup dry white wine (optional): Adds acidity and brightness, balancing the richness.
5–6 cups warm chicken broth: The liquid that cooks the rice slowly, infusing it with rich flavor.
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings saltiness and creaminess, finishing the dish perfectly.
2 tbsp unsalted butter: Stirred in at the end for extra silkiness and glossy finish.
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped: A fresh, herbaceous garnish that brightens every bite.

How to Make Chicken and Mushroom Risotto Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Chicken

Begin by heating olive oil or butter in a large pan over medium heat. Season your diced chicken with salt and pepper, then cook it until it’s lightly browned on all sides. This step not only locks in flavor but creates a wonderful texture contrast. Once browned, remove the chicken and set it aside—don’t worry, it will rejoin the dish soon.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Mushrooms

In the same pan, add the finely chopped onion (or shallot) and garlic. Cook gently for 2 to 3 minutes until soft and fragrant. Then, stir in the sliced mushrooms. Let these cook until tender and golden brown, which will bring out their natural earthiness and deepen the overall flavor profile.

Step 3: Toast the Arborio Rice

Next, stir the Arborio rice into the pan with your mushrooms and aromatics. Cooking the rice for about a minute helps toast it just enough to enhance its nutty flavor without browning it. This step is key for that signature creamy texture later on.

Step 4: Add White Wine (If Using)

If you’re using white wine, pour it in now and stir continuously until the liquid is fully absorbed by the rice. This fleeting but important step adds a subtle acidity and complexity to the dish, elevating it from everyday to elegant.

Step 5: Gradually Add Warm Chicken Broth

This is where the magic happens. Add warm chicken broth slowly, about half a cup at a time. Stir frequently and wait for the rice to absorb the liquid before adding more. This slow process allows the Arborio rice to release its starches, creating the creamy, luscious risotto texture everyone loves. Continue this for 18 to 22 minutes, until the rice is tender yet has a slight bite.

Step 6: Stir in Chicken, Cheese, and Butter

Now it’s time to bring everything together. Add the browned chicken back into the pan, along with the grated Parmesan cheese and the unsalted butter. Stir gently, letting the cheese melt smoothly into the risotto and enriching the silky texture. Taste and adjust salt and pepper at this point.

How to Serve Chicken and Mushroom Risotto Recipe

A white bowl is filled with a creamy risotto dish that has several layers of ingredients. The base layer shows soft, light yellow risotto rice mixed with small pieces of cooked mushrooms that are brown and beige. On top, there are slices of whole mushrooms scattered around, some small bits of crispy bacon giving a reddish-brown color, and finely chopped green herbs sprinkled evenly. The risotto is topped with a dusting of grated white cheese that adds a textured look. The bowl sits on a light blue cloth on a white marbled surface, and there is a silver fork placed to the top left of the bowl. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley not only adds a pop of green but also a bright, fresh flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creamy, rich risotto. If you like, a little extra Parmesan on top never hurts either for that perfect finishing touch.

Side Dishes

This risotto shines as a complete meal, but pairing it with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables adds balance and a fresh textural contrast. Crispness from a side like arugula with lemon vinaigrette works wonderfully to cut through the creaminess.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, serve the risotto in warmed shallow bowls, topped with a sprig of parsley and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil. You can also serve it alongside grilled asparagus or a slice of rustic bread to create a rustic yet refined plate that’s both inviting and photogenic.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chicken and Mushroom Risotto Recipe stores well in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep it in an airtight container to maintain its creamy texture as much as possible.

Freezing

While risotto is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers if needed. Use a tightly sealed container and thaw in the fridge before reheating. Keep in mind, the texture might be a little less creamy after freezing due to rice starch changes.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen it up and revive that luscious creaminess. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and to ensure even warming.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs for this risotto?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts will work just as well. They tend to be leaner, so be careful not to overcook them to keep the chicken tender and juicy within the risotto.

Is it necessary to use white wine in the Chicken and Mushroom Risotto Recipe?

No, the white wine is optional but recommended for added depth and flavor complexity. If you prefer not to use alcohol, you can simply skip it and increase the broth slightly.

What type of mushrooms are best for this recipe?

Cremini or button mushrooms are commonly used and work perfectly, but you can also experiment with shiitake or porcini for a more intense umami punch.

Can I make this risotto vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables like roasted squash or artichokes and use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian twist.

Why do I need to add broth gradually while making risotto?

Adding broth slowly and stirring constantly helps the rice release its starches gradually, which creates the creamy texture unique to risotto. Pouring all the liquid at once won’t give you the same luscious result.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this Chicken and Mushroom Risotto Recipe, it’s bound to become a kitchen favorite for cozy dinners and special occasions alike. The blend of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and rich, creamy rice is comforting yet sophisticated. So grab your ingredients, get stirring, and enjoy the rewarding experience of making this classic Italian comfort food from scratch—you won’t regret it!

Chicken and Mushroom Risotto Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need