Ingredients
Broth and Liquids
- 4 cups chicken broth (kept warm)
- ½ cup dry white wine (optional, can substitute with extra broth)
Proteins and Dairy
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Extra butter or Parmesan for finishing (optional)
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (cremini or button)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Grains and Seasonings
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Broth: Heat chicken broth in a saucepan and keep warm on low heat to ensure it’s ready for gradual absorption.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and minced garlic; sauté until soft and fragrant, about 3–5 minutes.
- Cook Mushrooms: Add sliced mushrooms to the pan and cook until golden brown and tender, roughly 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Toast Rice: Stir in Arborio rice, cooking and stirring for 1–2 minutes until the rice grains become lightly translucent and toasted, enhancing flavor.
- Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the white wine (if using), stirring frequently until it is mostly absorbed by the rice, which adds depth to the dish.
- Add Broth Gradually: Begin adding the warm chicken broth one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Allow each addition of liquid to be mostly absorbed before adding the next. Continue this process until the rice is creamy and al dente, about 18–20 minutes.
- Incorporate Chicken and Cheese: Stir in the cooked chicken, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped fresh parsley. Season the risotto with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the pan from the heat. For extra creaminess, add an optional pat of butter or an extra sprinkle of Parmesan. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Use leftover rotisserie chicken for an easy shortcut to save time.
- For extra depth and flavor, consider using a mix of wild mushrooms instead of just cremini or button.
- Risotto thickens as it cools; when reheating leftovers, add a splash of broth to loosen the texture and restore creaminess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free