Are you ready to transform an ordinary dinner into a restaurant-worthy culinary experience? Chase's Parmesan Chicken Risotto is not just a meal—it's a creamy, cheesy journey that will transport you straight to the heart of Italy with every luxurious bite. This classic Italian dish combines the rich, comforting flavors of perfectly cooked Arborio rice, aromatic garlic and onions, and the irresistible depth of Parmesan cheese, creating a dish that's both elegant and incredibly satisfying.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 onion (finely chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by finely chopping the onion, mincing the garlic, and measuring out the rice, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese.
- In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent and soft, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, being careful not to brown the garlic as it can become bitter.
- Pour in the Arborio rice and stir continuously for 1-2 minutes, allowing the rice to become slightly toasted and coated with oil, which helps develop a nutty flavor.
- Begin adding the chicken broth one ladleful at a time, stirring constantly. Allow each ladleful to be mostly absorbed before adding the next, which helps release the rice's natural starches and creates a creamy texture.
- Continue adding broth and stirring for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender but still has a slight bite (al dente).
- Remove the risotto from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, which will add richness and depth of flavor.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring the flavors are well balanced.
- Let the risotto rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to become creamy.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley just before serving, which adds a bright, fresh element to the dish.
- Serve immediately in warm bowls, ensuring the risotto maintains its creamy consistency.
Tips
- Choose the Right Rice: Always use Arborio rice, as its high starch content is crucial for achieving that signature creamy texture.
- Patience is Key: Risotto requires constant stirring and gradual broth addition. Don't rush the process—each ladleful should be mostly absorbed before adding the next.
- Temperature Control: Keep your broth warm in a separate pot before adding to the rice. Cold broth can interrupt the cooking process and result in uneven texture.
- Constant Stirring: This helps release the rice's starches, creating the signature creamy consistency. Use a wooden spoon and stir gently but consistently.
- Al Dente is Perfect: The rice should have a slight bite in the center. Overcooking will turn your risotto mushy.
- Rest and Finish: Allow the risotto to rest for 2-3 minutes after cooking to let flavors meld and achieve the perfect creamy consistency.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 20mg
