Spring vegetable risotto

Spring vegetable risotto is a creamy dish featuring tender chicken, seasonal asparagus, and peas, enhanced with white wine and parmesan. It’s a satisfying meal that balances fresh flavours with a rich texture.

21 Apr 2026
Cook time 40 min
Prep time 20 min

Ingredients:

1 short spray cooking spray oil
4 chicken breasts
1/2 cup peas
1.50 lb asparagus
1 onion
2 garlic cloves
1 tbsp water
6 cups chicken gravy
1/2 cup white wine
2 cups white rice
salt & pepper to taste
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

Spring vegetable risotto is a delightful and creamy dish that combines the fresh flavors of seasonal vegetables with the rich taste of white wine and chicken gravy. Not only is it a treat for the taste buds, but it also makes for a hearty and satisfying meal. Follow these steps to cook a perfect spring vegetable risotto that will impress your family and friends.

Instructions:

1. Prepare Ingredients:
- Slice the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
- Dice the onion finely.
- Mince the garlic cloves.
- Trim the asparagus, then cut into 1-inch pieces.

2. Cook the Chicken:
- Heat a large pan over medium-high heat and spray lightly with cooking spray oil.
- Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.

3. Cook Vegetables:
- In the same pan, reduce heat to medium, and add the diced onion. Cook until translucent, stirring occasionally.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

4. Prepare the Risotto Base:
- Add the white rice to the pan with the onions and garlic. Stir well to coat the rice with the oil and let it toast for 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in the white wine and cook until the wine has mostly evaporated.

5. Cook the Risotto:
- Gradually add the chicken gravy, one cup at a time, stirring frequently. Wait until each cup is mostly absorbed before adding the next. Continue this process until the rice is creamy and al dente, which should take about 20-25 minutes.

6. Add Vegetables & Chicken:
- When adding the final cup of chicken gravy, add the asparagus and peas to the risotto.
- Stir in the cooked chicken pieces and cook until the vegetables are tender and the chicken is heated through, about 5 minutes.

7. Finish & Serve:
- Stir in 1 tablespoon of water to loosen the risotto if it's too thick.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and stir in the grated parmesan cheese until well combined.

8. Serve:
- Spoon the risotto into serving bowls and garnish with additional parmesan cheese, if desired. Enjoy your spring vegetable risotto!

With patience and attention to detail, cooking a delicious spring vegetable risotto can be a rewarding experience. By following the steps carefully and incorporating these tips, you'll create a memorable dish that highlights the vibrant flavors of the season's freshest vegetables. Enjoy this culinary journey and savor every bite of your homemade risotto.

Spring vegetable risotto FAQ:

How long does it take to cook the risotto?

Cooking the risotto takes about 20-25 minutes once you start adding the chicken gravy. You'll need to stir frequently and add the gravy gradually for the best texture.

What should I do if my risotto turns out too thick?

If your risotto is too thick, stir in 1 tablespoon of water to loosen it. You can repeat this as needed to achieve your desired consistency.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice for this risotto?

While you can use brown rice, it will require a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust the cooking time to about 40-45 minutes for brown rice to become tender.

What is the best way to store leftover risotto?

Store leftover risotto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or chicken gravy to loosen it up again.

Can I substitute another protein for the chicken?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or even cooked sausage, adjusting cooking times accordingly to ensure thorough cooking.

Cooking Tips:

- Preparation: Ensure all ingredients are prepped and measured before starting to cook. This will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

- Stirring: Frequently stir the risotto to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan and to help release the starch from the rice, making it creamy.

- Temperature: Cook the risotto over medium heat to ensure even cooking and to prevent the rice from becoming mushy or undercooked.

- Liquid: Add the chicken gravy gradually and allow the rice to absorb the liquid slowly. This ensures a perfectly creamy texture.

- Taste Test: Regularly taste the risotto to check the seasoning and the texture of the rice. Adjust the salt, pepper, and cooking time as necessary.

- Cheese: Add the grated parmesan cheese at the end to give the risotto a rich and creamy finish.

Nutrition Facts

4 Servings
Calories 810kcal
Protein 44g
Carbohydrates 120g
Fiber 7g
Sugar 7g
Fat 13g

Spring vegetable risotto