Parmesan Chicken Alfredo Risotto
If you’re looking for the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness with the heartiness of tender chicken, look no further than Parmesan Chicken Alfredo Risotto. This recipe combines the classic flavors of a rich Alfredo sauce with the delicate, creamy texture of risotto. It’s an indulgent, satisfying dish that’s perfect for a cozy family dinner, an elegant date night meal, or even a dinner party with friends.
For those who love both risotto and Alfredo pasta, this dish offers the best of both worlds. The slow-cooked Arborio rice absorbs flavorful chicken broth before being enriched with heavy cream and Parmesan, creating a smooth, velvety texture. Topped with golden-browned chicken and fresh parsley, this dish is sure to impress.
In this blog post, you’ll find a step-by-step guide on how to make Parmesan Chicken Alfredo Risotto, along with tips, substitutions, and storage recommendations.
Ingredients
To make this deliciously creamy risotto, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 4 cups chicken broth, warm
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
To make this risotto successfully, have the following kitchen tools on hand:
- Large skillet or saucepan
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Ladle
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Chicken
Season the cubed chicken breast with salt and black pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and the butter. Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
3. Toast the Rice
Stir in the Arborio rice, ensuring the grains are well-coated in the oil and butter. Toast for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently. This step enhances the nutty flavor of the rice.
4. Gradually Add Broth
Begin adding the warm chicken broth one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Allow the rice to absorb the broth before adding more. Continue this process for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is creamy and al dente.
5. Incorporate Cream and Parmesan
Once the rice is fully cooked, stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the cheese is fully melted and the risotto has a silky consistency.
6. Add the Chicken
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring to incorporate it evenly into the risotto. Let everything simmer for another minute or two to meld the flavors.
7. Garnish and Serve
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve warm, topped with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips & Variations
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: To save time, substitute fresh-cooked chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in spinach, peas, or mushrooms for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Make it Lighter: Swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk.
- Enhance the Flavor: Use homemade chicken broth for a deeper, richer taste.
- Wine Instead of Broth: For an extra depth of flavor, replace the first ½ cup of chicken broth with white wine.
How to Store and Reheat
Storing Leftovers
- Store leftover risotto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Risotto doesn’t freeze well, as the texture can become grainy and dry.
Reheating Instructions
- Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore the creamy texture.
- Stir frequently to prevent sticking and to maintain the consistency.
Food & Drink Pairings
- Side Dishes: Serve with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.
- Wine Pairing: A crisp Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio complements the richness of the dish.
- Non-Alcoholic Option: Try serving with a sparkling lemon-infused water or iced herbal tea.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of rice?
Arborio rice is best for risotto due to its high starch content, which creates the creamy texture. Other options include Carnaroli or Vialone Nano, but avoid long-grain rice as it won’t achieve the same consistency.
2. How do I prevent my risotto from becoming too thick?
If the risotto thickens too much before serving, simply add a bit more warm broth or cream and stir until the desired consistency is reached.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Risotto is best served fresh, but you can partially cook it (about 75% done), then finish the last steps just before serving.
4. How do I make this dish gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use a gluten-free chicken broth.
Conclusion
Parmesan Chicken Alfredo Risotto is a rich, indulgent dish that’s easy to make and sure to impress. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting a dinner party, or simply treating yourself, this recipe delivers comfort and elegance in every bite.
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Happy Cooking!
