Chicken Risotto with Spinach

This creamy chicken risotto combines tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and rich sun-dried tomatoes for a restaurant-quality dinner you can make at home. The slow cooking process creates a velvety texture that wraps around every bite of savory chicken and bright vegetables.

I first made this risotto when entertaining friends who thought homemade risotto was too difficult. Their amazed faces when they realized they could replicate this dish themselves made it an instant favorite in our dinner party rotation.

Ingredients

• Arborio rice: essential for that classic creamy risotto texture without becoming mushy
• Chicken breast: adds lean protein and makes this a complete meal
• Chicken broth: the foundation of flavor use homemade for best results
• Sun-dried tomatoes: bring concentrated umami flavor and bright color contrast
• Fresh spinach: adds nutrition and vibrant green color wait to add until the end
• Parmesan cheese: use freshly grated for the smoothest melt and best flavor
• White wine: optional but adds wonderful depth to the finished dish
• Olive oil: choose a good quality extra virgin for best flavor
• Salt and pepper: always adjust to your preference

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Ingredients:

Dice chicken into bite-sized pieces about 1 inch cubes. Chop spinach and sun-dried tomatoes. Measure out rice and have broth nearby ready to add. Having everything ready makes the stirring process much easier.

Sauté Chicken:

Heat olive oil in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat until shimmering, then add diced chicken. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until golden brown on all sides. The chicken will finish cooking with the rice, so it need not be completely cooked through at this stage.

Toast The Rice:

Add Arborio rice to the pan with chicken and stir continuously for 1 to 2 minutes. This crucial step toasts the rice grains and helps them maintain their structure while absorbing liquid. The rice should become translucent around the edges while remaining white in the center.

Add Liquid Gradually:

Begin adding warm chicken broth a half cup at a time, stirring constantly, until each addition is fully absorbed. This slow process takes patience, about 20 to 25 minutes total, but creates the creamy consistency risotto is famous for. The rice should be tender but with slight resistance when bitten.

Incorporate Vegetables:

Once rice is cooked to al dente stage, stir in chopped spinach and sun-dried tomatoes. The residual heat will wilt the spinach perfectly without overcooking. The sun-dried tomatoes will release their rich flavor into the creamy rice.

Finish With Cheese:

Remove pan from heat and stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper, tasting as you go until perfectly balanced. Let the risotto rest for 2 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

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The sun-dried tomatoes in this recipe are my absolute secret weapon. I always keep a jar in my pantry because they add instant depth to any dish. My husband claims he can always tell when I’ve added them and says their sweet intense flavor elevates this risotto from everyday to exceptional.

Mastering The Perfect Texture

The key to risotto is achieving that perfect consistency—not too thick, not too runny. After cooking, your risotto should gently spread when spooned onto a plate while maintaining some body. Italians call this consistency "all'onda," meaning wavelike. If your risotto becomes too thick after adding cheese, simply stir in a splash more warm broth until it reaches the ideal texture. Remember, risotto continues to thicken as it cools, so serve immediately for the best experience.

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Make Ahead Options

While risotto is traditionally made and served immediately, you can prepare components ahead of time to streamline the cooking process. Cook the chicken up to a day ahead and refrigerate. Chop vegetables and measure ingredients several hours before cooking. For entertaining, I often prepare the risotto until just before adding the vegetables, then take a break before finishing the dish for serving. Just keep the partially cooked risotto warm and have additional warm broth ready to loosen the texture when you resume cooking.

Pairing Suggestions

This risotto works beautifully as a standalone meal but also pairs wonderfully with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For wine, a crisp Pinot Grigio or light Chardonnay complements the creamy texture without overwhelming the delicate flavors. During cooler months, serve smaller portions as a luxurious first course before a simple roasted meat. The versatility of this dish makes it perfect for casual family dinners and special occasions alike.

Nutritional Benefits

This balanced meal provides excellent nutrition from multiple food groups. The chicken offers lean protein essential for muscle maintenance, while the Arborio rice provides complex carbohydrates for sustained energy. Spinach contributes iron, folate, and antioxidants, while sun-dried tomatoes add lycopene, known for its potential heart health benefits. The Parmesan cheese provides calcium and protein, making this a truly nutritious complete meal. For those monitoring sodium intake, consider using low-sodium broth and adjusting added salt accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of rice for this dish?

For the best creamy texture, Arborio rice is recommended. However, you can use other short-grain rice varieties, though the consistency might differ slightly.

→ Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?

Yes, you can use shrimp, turkey, or even tofu as a substitute for chicken. Adjust cooking times accordingly for different proteins.

→ What can I use instead of white wine?

If you prefer not to use white wine, substitute it with additional chicken broth or a splash of apple cider vinegar for acidity.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan with a splash of broth to revive the creamy texture.

→ Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Mushrooms, asparagus, or peas would complement the flavors nicely. Add them during cooking for the best results.