Creamy Chicken and Asparagus Risotto Recipe – Easy One-Pot Dinner!
Looking for a restaurant-quality risotto that’s easy to make at home? This Chicken and Asparagus Risotto is creamy, flavorful, and packed with protein and fresh veggies. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or impressing guests!
In this SEO-optimized recipe guide, you’ll learn:
✔ Step-by-step instructions (with pro tips!)
✔ Key ingredients & substitutions
✔ Nutritional benefits
✔ Why this recipe works
Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Asparagus Risotto
✅ One-pot wonder – Less cleanup!
✅ Creamy without heavy cream – Just Parmesan and slow-cooked Arborio rice.
✅ Packed with protein & fiber – Balanced meal in one bowl.
✅ Easily customizable – Swap chicken for shrimp or mushrooms.
Ingredients You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Amount | Substitutions |
|---|---|---|
| Arborio rice | 1 ½ cups | Carnaroli rice |
| Chicken breast | 2 (diced) | Thighs or shrimp |
| Asparagus (chopped) | 1 bunch | Broccoli or peas |
| Chicken broth | 4 cups | Veggie broth |
| White wine (optional) | ½ cup | Lemon juice |
| Onion & garlic | 1 each | Shallots |
| Parmesan cheese | ½ cup | Pecorino Romano |
| Butter & olive oil | 2 tbsp | Ghee or avocado oil |
Pro Tip: Use warm broth for creamier risotto!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the Chicken & Veggies
- Heat 1 tbsp oil in a deep pan.
- Cook diced chicken until golden (5 min). Set aside.
- In the same pan, sauté onion & garlic until soft.
2. Toast the Rice
- Add Arborio rice, stirring 2 min until translucent.
- Pour in white wine (or lemon juice) and let it absorb.
3. Slow-Cook with Broth
- Gradually add warm broth, ½ cup at a time, stirring frequently.
- After 15 min, add asparagus and cook until tender.
4. Finish with Cheese & Butter
- Stir in Parmesan, butter, and cooked chicken.
- Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon.
Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Serving Suggestions
🍽 Pair with: A crisp white wine (Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc).
🌿 Garnish: Fresh parsley, extra Parmesan, or chili flakes.
🥗 Side dish: Simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette.
Nutritional Info (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 28g
- Carbs: 50g
- Fiber: 4g
Dietary Notes:
- Gluten-free (use GF broth)
- High-protein (great for fitness meals)
Pro Tips for Perfect Risotto
🔥 Keep stirring! Releases starch for creaminess.
⏳ Low & slow wins – Don’t rush the broth absorption.
🧊 Leftovers? Reheat with a splash of broth or milk.
Why This Recipe Works
- Asparagus adds freshness – Balances the richness.
- Chicken keeps it hearty – No “missing meat” complaints.
- Restaurant trick: Finish with cold butter for extra silkiness.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken and Asparagus Risotto is a foolproof way to master risotto at home. Creamy, savory, and packed with spring flavors, it’s a 30-minute meal that tastes gourmet!
Try it tonight and tag #RisottoRecipe on Instagram!