Chicken and lemon risotto

Chicken and lemon risotto is a creamy dish featuring tender chicken, zesty lemon, and fresh peas. This recipe guides you through making a delightful risotto that's perfect for any occasion.

06 Feb 2026
Cook time 45 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

6 cups chicken gravy
1/3 cup butter
2 onions
2 garlic cloves
1 tsp fresh thyme
2 cups white rice
1/2 cup white wine
1 tbsp olive oil
1.50 lb chicken breasts
1 cup peas
3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
3 cups spinach
1/3 cup feta cheese
2 tbsp lemon zest

Chicken and lemon risotto is a creamy and savory dish that promises a delightful culinary experience. Combining the zesty brightness of lemon with tender chicken and vibrant peas, this dish is ideal for both a cozy night in and an elegant dinner party. Follow this recipe to create a balanced and flavorful risotto that is sure to impress.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken Gravy: Keep the chicken gravy warm in a saucepan over low heat.

2. Cook the Chicken:
1. In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the diced chicken breasts, cooking until they are browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

3. Prepare the Onion and Garlic:
1. In the same pan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the finely chopped onions and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and fresh thyme, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

4. Cook the Rice:
1. Add the white rice to the pan, stirring to coat the rice in the butter mixture.
2. Pour in the white wine, and cook, stirring constantly, until the wine is absorbed by the rice.

5. Begin Adding Chicken Gravy:
1. Add one ladle of the warm chicken gravy to the rice, stirring frequently until almost all the liquid is absorbed.
2. Continue to add the chicken gravy one ladle at a time, stirring constantly and allowing the liquid to be absorbed before adding more. This process will take about 20-25 minutes until the rice is creamy and cooked al dente.

6. Incorporate Other Ingredients:
1. Once the rice is nearly done, stir in the cooked chicken and peas, mixing well.
2. Add the grated parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and well combined.
3. Fold in the chopped spinach, allowing it to wilt from the heat of the risotto.
4. Stir in the lemon zest, distributing it evenly through the risotto.

7. Finish the Dish:
1. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
2. Serve the risotto hot, garnished with the crumbled feta cheese on top.

Your Chicken and Lemon Risotto is now ready to be served! This dish perfectly balances the richness of the risotto with the freshness of lemon zest and the creaminess of cheeses. Enjoy this hearty meal with a side of fresh salad or a crispy baguette for an unforgettable dining experience.

Chicken and lemon risotto FAQ:

What is the total cooking time for Chicken and Lemon Risotto?

The total cooking time for Chicken and Lemon Risotto is approximately 35-40 minutes. This includes 5-7 minutes for cooking the chicken, 5 minutes for sautéing the onions and garlic, and about 20-25 minutes for cooking the rice with the chicken gravy.

How can I tell when the risotto is done?

Risotto is done when the rice is creamy and cooked al dente—meaning it should be tender but still have a slight firmness in the center. Taste the rice around the 20-minute mark and continue to cook until it reaches the desired texture.

Can I make substitutions for the white wine in the risotto?

Yes, you can substitute the white wine with additional chicken gravy, chicken broth, or a splash of apple cider vinegar mixed with water for a similar acidity without alcohol.

What is the best way to store leftovers of Chicken and Lemon Risotto?

Store leftover risotto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it on the stove with a splash of broth or water to restore creaminess.

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Parmesan?

Yes, you can use other cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano as alternatives to Parmesan. Each will add a unique flavor to the risotto.

Cooking Tips:

- Constantly stir the risotto as it cooks to achieve a creamy texture.

- Gradually add the chicken gravy to the rice instead of pouring it all at once. This allows the rice to fully absorb the liquid and flavors.

- Make sure the chicken is cooked through and tender before adding it to the risotto.

- Use a good quality white wine to enhance the depth of flavors.

- Season the risotto to taste with salt and pepper at the end since the chicken gravy and the cheeses already contain salt.

- Garnish with extra parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of lemon zest before serving for an added touch of elegance.

Nutrition Facts

8 Servings
Calories 550kcal
Protein 30g
Carbohydrates 60g
Fiber 2.62g
Sugar 3.76g
Fat 20g

Chicken and lemon risotto