Skillet Chicken Risotto
A hearty and flavorful skillet chicken risotto featuring tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, sweet carrots, and fragrant seasonings. This comforting dish combines the creaminess of risotto with the satisfying texture of cooked poultry, making it perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 10-inch skillet, brown the chicken on all sides in hot oil, about 15 minutes.
- Remove the chicken pieces from the skillet.
- Drain all but 2 tablespoons of fat from the skillet.
- Add rice, chopped onion, salt, and poultry seasoning to the skillet. Cook and stir until the rice is lightly browned.
- Add sliced mushrooms, bias-cut carrots, and water to the skillet.
- Place the cooked chicken on top of the rice mixture.
- Season the chicken with additional salt and pepper.
- Sprinkle with paprika, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes or until the chicken and rice are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of white wine before adding the water. If you don’t have poultry seasoning, a mix of thyme and sage works well. To cut down on cooking time, you can use pre-cooked chicken. This Skillet Chicken Risotto can also be enhanced with fresh herbs like parsley or basil.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the risotto with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple green salad for a balanced meal. A light white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, pairs beautifully with the dish. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside Garlic Bread. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or chicken broth to maintain moisture, then warm in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. Avoid reheating more than once to maintain quality.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Skillet Chicken Risotto contains roughly 991 calories, with 21g protein, 111g carbohydrates, and 63g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (144% of the Daily Value), and iron (110% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 716mg per serving (31% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of long grain rice?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time and increase the water. Brown rice typically takes longer to cook, so simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes until tender.
What can I do if I don't have fresh mushrooms?
If fresh mushrooms are unavailable, you can use canned mushrooms or dried mushrooms. If using dried, rehydrate them in warm water before adding to the dish. This will still impart a nice flavor to the risotto.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
The chicken is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer for accuracy. The juices should run clear, and the meat should no longer be pink inside.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).