Instant Pot Chicken Risotto: Creamy, Delicious!

Hey fellow food lovers! Get ready to dive into a bowl of pure comfort with a serious flavor kick! I’m so excited to share one of my absolute favorite weeknight winners: Instant Pot Chicken Risotto!

This recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a flavor adventure that turns an ordinary dinner into something truly special. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!

Picture this: It’s a busy weeknight, you’re craving something warm and satisfying, but you definitely don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. That’s where this Instant Pot Chicken Risotto comes to the rescue! It’s become my go-to solution for a delicious and quick meal that never compromises on taste. The magic of the Instant Pot transforms simple ingredients into a creamy, dreamy risotto that’s ready in a fraction of the time.

This isn’t your grandma’s risotto, though (unless your grandma is super adventurous in the kitchen!). I’ve taken the classic comfort food and given it a Grill Drip twist, packing it with bold flavors that will make you do a little happy dance with every bite.

The “aha” moment with this recipe came when I realized that the Instant Pot could create the perfect creamy texture without all the stirring that traditional risotto requires. It’s pure genius! Plus, the flavors meld together so beautifully under pressure, creating a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible.

I’m thrilled to share this Instant Pot Chicken Risotto recipe with you and show you how easy it is to create a restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen. So, grab your Instant Pot, and let’s get cooking! I promise, this will become one of your new favorite comfort food recipes. Let’s get ready to enjoy a creamy, dreamy bowl of deliciousness!

INGREDIENTS You Need

This Instant Pot Chicken Risotto ingredient list is all about bold flavors that actually work together! You can grab these finds during your normal shopping trip. Here’s what you’ll need to make this magic happen:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil: This helps start the cooking process and adds richness.
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces: The star of the show!
• 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds a sweet and savory base.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Because garlic makes everything better!
• 1 1/2 cups Arborio rice: The key to creamy risotto.
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional): Adds a layer of depth; I often use Pinot Grigio.
• 4 cups chicken broth: Low sodium is best so you can control the salt.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: For that cheesy goodness.
• 1/4 cup heavy cream: This is how this recipe gets the creamy finish
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: For freshness and color.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Seasoning is key!
• Optional: Red pepper flakes: I love adding extra red pepper flakes to my Instant Pot Chicken Risotto for that extra kick!
• Optional: 1/2 cup frozen peas: Stir in at the end for a pop of color and sweetness.

No worries if you don’t have white wine; I use extra chicken broth all the time in my Instant Pot Chicken Risotto! It still tastes amazing. This Instant Pot Chicken Risotto gets its amazing taste from the combination of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley. It’s a flavor explosion in every bite!

Here’s my Instant Pot Chicken Risotto secret that takes it from good to incredible: a splash of lemon juice right before serving! It brightens up the flavors and adds a zing that will make your taste buds sing. I also love to prep all my veggies ahead of time on busy weeknights. Chop the onion, mince the garlic, and measure out the rice so that when it is time to cook, it is a smooth process. Store any unused parsley in a damp paper towel in the fridge to keep it fresh for longer.

Let’s Make Some!

This is my favorite part of making Instant Pot Chicken Risotto – watch the magic happen! These steps are written like we’re cooking together in your kitchen. Let’s get started on this amazing flavor adventure!

1. Sauté the Chicken: Turn on your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function. Add the olive oil and let it heat up. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the Instant Pot and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Your Instant Pot Chicken Risotto should smell absolutely incredible right now.
3. Toast the Rice: Add the Arborio rice to the Instant Pot and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. This toasting step is crucial for developing the rice’s flavor and preventing it from becoming mushy. This is where the magic starts happening!
4. Deglaze (Optional): If using, pour in the white wine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the wine is mostly absorbed. This step adds depth of flavor but is totally optional.
5. Add Broth and Chicken: Pour in the chicken broth and return the browned chicken to the Instant Pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Pressure Cook: Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to “Sealing.” Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” function and set the timer for 6 minutes.
7. Release Pressure: Once the cooking time is up, let the Instant Pot release pressure naturally for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, do a quick release of any remaining pressure. Be careful when releasing pressure!
8. Stir in Creaminess: Open the lid and stir in the Parmesan cheese and heavy cream. If using, stir in the frozen peas. The Instant Pot Chicken Risotto will be nice and creamy.
9. Finishing Touches: Stir in the fresh parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Don’t worry if your Instant Pot Chicken Risotto looks a little loose; it will thicken as it cools slightly.

In my kitchen, this Instant Pot Chicken Risotto usually takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it the perfect weeknight meal. While your Instant Pot Chicken Risotto is doing its thing, get ready for some amazing aromas! One of my favorite shortcuts is to buy pre-chopped onions to save time on busy nights.

How to Serve Up This!

People literally do happy dances when this Instant Pot Chicken Risotto hits the table with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil! It’s seriously that good!

Here’s how I love to enjoy this Instant Pot Chicken Risotto:

• Classic Presentation: Serve it in a bowl with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a generous grating of Parmesan cheese. A drizzle of olive oil adds a touch of richness.
• Bold Flavor Pairings: This Instant Pot Chicken Risotto is incredible with a side of roasted asparagus or a simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette. The bright acidity cuts through the richness of the risotto.
• Perfect Occasions: This is perfect for those weeknight dinners that need to be special! It’s also great for casual get-togethers with friends or family.
• Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs perfectly with this risotto.
• Creative Leftover Transformations: Turn leftover risotto into crispy risotto cakes! Mix the risotto with an egg and some breadcrumbs, form into patties, and pan-fry until golden brown. Serve with a dollop of aioli.
• Fusion Variation: Try adding a sprinkle of truffle oil for a luxurious twist, and this Instant Pot Chicken Risotto reminds me of another bold flavor favorite, jalapeno popper chicken wraps!

This Instant Pot Chicken Risotto is so versatile, and it makes weeknight dinners so much easier. I once served this at a potluck, and it was gone in minutes! Everyone raved about how creamy and flavorful it was.

FAQs:

Here are some common questions I get about making Instant Pot Chicken Risotto. Let’s get these answered so you can cook with confidence!

• Will kitchen newbies succeed with this Instant Pot Chicken Risotto? Absolutely! The Instant Pot makes this recipe incredibly easy and almost foolproof. Just follow the steps, and you’ll be a risotto pro in no time.
• What if I mess up my Instant Pot Chicken Risotto? (Spoiler: it’ll still taste incredible!) Even if you overcook it a little, it will still be delicious! The texture might be a bit softer, but the flavor will still shine through.
• Can I use brown rice instead of Arborio rice? I don’t recommend it. Arborio rice is key to getting that creamy texture. Brown rice will result in a completely different dish.
• How can I prep this Instant Pot Chicken Risotto for busy weeknights? Chop the vegetables and measure out the rice ahead of time. You can even brown the chicken in advance and store it in the fridge.
• Can I make this vegetarian? Absolutely! Just skip the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add sautéed mushrooms or other vegetables for extra flavor.
• What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese? You can substitute with another hard cheese like Pecorino Romano or Asiago.
• How do I store leftovers? Store leftover Instant Pot Chicken Risotto in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• Can I add other vegetables to this dish I love to add mushrooms for an earthy flavor that combines so well with the herbs and Parmesan.

This Instant Pot Chicken Risotto is forgiving, so don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own! The most important thing is to have fun in the kitchen! If you’re loving this comfort food twist, you’ll go crazy for my white chicken chili!

CONCLUSION:

This Instant Pot Chicken Risotto brings me so much joy because it’s a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. It’s perfect for those nights when you need a little bit of love in a bowl.

My Instant Pot Chicken Risotto Flavor Secrets:

1. Lemon Zest: A little bit of lemon zest adds a bright, citrusy note that elevates the entire dish.
2. Toasted Pine Nuts: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts on top for a nutty crunch.
3. Saffron Threads: A pinch of saffron threads adds a beautiful color and a subtle, earthy flavor.

Here are a few delicious Instant Pot Chicken Risotto variations I’ve tested:

• Mushroom Risotto: Add sautéed mushrooms to the Instant Pot along with the rice. Perfect for a cozy fall meal!
• Lemon Herb Risotto: Add lemon zest and a mix of fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary. A bright and flavorful option for springtime.
• Spicy Sausage Risotto: Use Italian sausage instead of chicken and add a pinch of red pepper flakes. This is a flavor bomb!

Remember, cooking is all about trusting your taste buds and getting creative in the kitchen. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create your own signature Instant Pot Chicken Risotto.

I’m so excited for you to try this Instant Pot Chicken Risotto and create some delicious memories in your own kitchen! Let me know how it turns out! For more weeknight winners that don’t sacrifice on taste, check out this crockpot white chicken chili recipe!

Instant Pot Chicken Risotto Recipe – Happy Foods Tube is a similar recipe if you want to compare techniques.Instant Pot Lemon Chicken Risotto – Sweetphi is another great recipe if you want to try different flavor options.Instant Pot Chicken Risotto (VIDEO!) quick, easy, gluten free … can help you follow along with a visual demonstration.

Instant Pot Chicken Risotto

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This creamy Instant Pot Chicken Risotto is a weeknight wonder! It’s quick, easy, and delivers a comforting, flavorful meal with minimal effort.

• Author: Nyla
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Instant Pot
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 cups Arborio rice
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Turn on the Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add olive oil.
2. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides. Remove chicken from the Instant Pot and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion to the Instant Pot and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add Arborio rice to the Instant Pot and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Pour in white wine (if using) and cook until absorbed, about 1 minute.
6. Pour in chicken broth and return the chicken to the Instant Pot. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Cancel the sauté function. Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set the valve to the sealing position. Cook on high pressure for 6 minutes.
8. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
9. Remove the lid and stir in Parmesan cheese and butter until melted and creamy.
10. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

For an extra touch of flavor, stir in some cooked mushrooms or asparagus before serving.