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Chicken Risotto (Creamy Rice) with Spinach, Sun-Dried Tomatoes, and Parmesan

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This Chicken Risotto with Spinach, Sun‑Dried Tomatoes, and Parmesan is a creamy, comforting one‑pot meal where tender Arborio rice simmers to perfection with chicken, bright greens, tangy sun‑dried tomatoes, and savory Parmesan—restaurant‑quality flavor at home.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
  • 1 ½ cups Arborio rice
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4–5 cups chicken broth, kept warm
  • ½ cup dry white wine (optional for deglazing)
  • ½ cup sun‑dried tomatoes (oil‑packed), sliced
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Chopped fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Season the diced chicken with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon oil or butter in a large skillet or wide saucepan over medium heat. Cook chicken until golden and cooked through; transfer to a plate.
  3. Add remaining oil if needed. Sauté onion until soft, then stir in garlic and Arborio rice for about 1–2 minutes until the rice is lightly toasted.
  4. Pour in white wine (if using) and stir until mostly absorbed.
  5. Begin adding warm broth one ladle at a time, stirring frequently and waiting until fully absorbed before adding more.
  6. After about 15 minutes, stir in sun‑dried tomatoes.
  7. Once the rice is creamy and al dente (about 18–20 minutes total), stir in spinach, cooked chicken, and Parmesan until the spinach wilts and everything is well combined.
  8. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

  • For extra depth, add sautéed mushrooms or roasted red peppers.
  • Swirl in a splash of heavy cream at the end for even richer texture.
  • Substitute shrimp for chicken for a lighter seafood version.
  • Use Carnaroli or Vialone Nano rice if available for optimal creaminess.
  • Frequent stirring (not constant) helps release starch and achieve creamy consistency.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipesbyliza.com/chicken-risotto-creamy-rice-with-spinach-sun-dried-tomatoes-and-parmesan/