Nothing quite beats the comfort of a creamy and flavorful risotto, especially when it involves the bright and zesty flavors of chicken, lemon, and peas. This Chicken Lemon and Pea Risotto recipe combines the richness of the chicken with the freshness of lemon and the sweetness of peas to create a delightful dish perfect for any cozy evening at home. Let’s delve into the recipe:
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 2 chicken breasts, diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup dry white wine
– Zest of 1 lemon
– Juice of 1 lemon
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breasts and cook until they are no longer pink, around 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
2. In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed and sauté the chopped onion and garlic until they are soft and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
3. Stir in the Arborio rice, making sure to coat it evenly with the oil and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the rice becomes slightly translucent.
4. Pour in the white wine and stir constantly until it is completely absorbed by the rice.
5. Begin adding the chicken broth one ladle at a time, stirring frequently and allowing each addition to be absorbed before adding the next. Continue this process until the rice is creamy and cooked to al dente, which should take around 18-20 minutes.
6. Stir in the lemon zest and juice, frozen peas, cooked chicken, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well to combine all the flavors and let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
7. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. Remember, the Parmesan cheese will add some saltiness, so adjust accordingly.
8. Serve the Chicken Lemon and Pea Risotto hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and additional freshness.
This delightful Chicken Lemon and Pea Risotto is the perfect meal for any occasion, whether you’re looking for a cozy night in or wanting to impress dinner guests with a comforting yet elegant dish. The creamy texture of the risotto combined with the tangy lemon zest, juicy chicken, and sweet peas create a harmony of flavors that will leave everyone wanting more. Enjoy this dish with a glass of white wine for the ultimate dining experience. Bon appétit!
