Almost Hands-Free Risotto with Chicken and Herbs – Creamy, Flavorful, and Easy

This Almost Hands-Free Risotto with Chicken and Herbs is a convenient twist on traditional risotto that delivers creamy, comforting flavor without constant stirring. Tender chicken, fragrant herbs, and perfectly cooked rice come together in a rich, savory dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With minimal hands-on time, it’s an easy way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Tender & Savory – Juicy chicken pieces infused with herbs and flavor.
Herbaceous & Aromatic – Fresh herbs elevate the creamy risotto.
Almost Hands-Free – Minimal stirring, letting the rice cook itself.
Comfort Food Favorite – Creamy, satisfying, and elegant in every bite.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup arborio rice
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth, warm
• ½ cup dry white wine (optional)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tsp fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried)
• 1 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken
   In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics
   In the same skillet, add butter, onion, and garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 2–3 minutes.
3. Add Rice and Liquids
   Stir in arborio rice, coating it in butter and onion. Add white wine, if using, and let it absorb. Pour in chicken broth, bring to a simmer, and cover. Cook for 18–20 minutes, stirring once halfway, until rice is creamy and tender.
4. Finish the Risotto
   Stir in cooked chicken, Parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
5. Serve
   Spoon risotto onto plates, garnish with parsley if desired, and enjoy warm.

Nutritional Information

Calories: ~450
Protein: 35g
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Sugar: 2g
Fiber: 2g

Tips for Success

• Use Warm Broth – Helps the rice cook evenly and absorb flavors.
• Fresh Parmesan – Adds the best creamy, cheesy finish.
• Adjust Herbs – Customize with your favorite fresh herbs for extra flavor.

Why This Recipe Works

The almost hands-free cooking method allows the rice to absorb flavors from the chicken and herbs while staying creamy and tender. Juicy chicken and fresh herbs complement the risotto perfectly, creating a comforting, satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare.

Almost Hands-Free Risotto with Chicken and Herbs is a simple yet elegant meal that brings creamy, flavorful risotto to your table with minimal effort. Perfect for weeknights or entertaining guests, it’s a dish that’s both impressive and easy to make.