Risotto is one of those dishes that feels both luxurious and comforting—a creamy, savory rice dish that pairs perfectly with everything from seafood to seasonal vegetables. Traditionally, risotto is known for its labor-intensive cooking method, requiring constant stirring and close attention. But what if you could enjoy all the richness of classic risotto without being glued to the stovetop?
Enter the Almost Hands-Free Risotto with Chicken and Herbs, a simplified version of the Italian classic that minimizes effort without compromising on flavor. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or anytime you’re craving something warm and satisfying but don’t want to babysit a pot for 45 minutes.
Why “Almost Hands-Free”?
This version of risotto uses a clever technique that lets you step away from the stove while the rice absorbs most of the broth on its own. You’ll still give it a few gentle stirs to achieve the signature creamy texture, but it won’t demand constant attention. It’s the best of both worlds: authentic taste with modern convenience.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this easy risotto:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 ½ cups Arborio rice
- ½ cup dry white wine (optional)
- 4 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth, warmed
- 1 ½ cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried)
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or ½ tsp dried)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté Aromatics
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
2. Toast the Rice
Add the Arborio rice and stir to coat the grains in oil. Toast for about 2–3 minutes, until the edges of the rice become translucent. This step enhances the nutty flavor of the rice.
3. Deglaze with Wine
Pour in the white wine and stir until it has mostly evaporated. If you’re skipping wine, just move on to the next step.
4. Add Broth and Simmer
Pour in about 4 cups of the warm broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir briefly to ensure nothing is sticking, then reduce the heat to medium-low.
Here’s the hands-free trick: Cover the pot with a lid slightly askew and let it simmer undisturbed for 16–18 minutes. Stir once or twice during this time to prevent sticking.
5. Add Chicken and Herbs
After the liquid is mostly absorbed, stir in the chicken, thyme, rosemary, and the remaining ½ cup of broth. Cook for 5–7 more minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and creamy.
6. Finish with Cheese
Remove from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish and Serve
Spoon into bowls and top with fresh parsley or an extra sprinkle of Parmesan. Serve immediately for best texture.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~460
- Protein: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 620mg
This dish offers a balance of protein, carbs, and healthy fats—ideal for a satisfying, one-bowl meal.
Presentation Tips
- Rustic Chic: Serve in wide, shallow bowls to showcase the creamy texture. Garnish with a small sprig of thyme or rosemary.
- Perfect Pairings: Pair with a crisp green salad and a glass of chilled white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
- Elevate It: Add a drizzle of truffle oil or a soft-poached egg on top for a more gourmet twist.
Make It Your Own
This base recipe is wonderfully adaptable:
- Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth. Add sautéed mushrooms or asparagus instead.
- Creamier: Stir in a splash of cream or a pat of butter just before serving.
- Zesty: Add lemon zest or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Almost Hands-Free Risotto delivers everything you want in a comfort meal: richness, warmth, and a touch of elegance—with less work. It’s ideal for busy home cooks who want the taste of a restaurant-style dish without the fuss.
Whether you’re serving guests or just treating yourself to a cozy night in, this risotto is bound to impress with its creamy consistency, herby aroma, and tender chunks of chicken.