Description
This Instant Pot Chicken Risotto recipe offers a creamy and flavorful twist on classic risotto, made easy with the help of a pressure cooker. Tender chicken pieces are cooked with Arborio rice, garlic, and onions, then finished with Parmesan cheese and optional cream for a rich, velvety texture. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal with Italian-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups Arborio rice
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream (optional)
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the Instant Pot: Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode and add olive oil and butter. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Add Garlic and Rice: Stir in the minced garlic and Arborio rice, cooking for 1–2 minutes until the rice becomes lightly toasted and fragrant.
- Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the white wine, if using, and stir continuously until it is mostly absorbed by the rice.
- Add Chicken and Broth: Add the bite-sized chicken pieces, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together to combine.
- Pressure Cook: Cancel Sauté mode, secure the lid on the Instant Pot, and set it to Pressure Cook (Manual) on high for 7 minutes.
- Release Pressure: After cooking completes, allow a natural pressure release for 5 minutes, then carefully perform a quick release to release any remaining pressure. Open the lid carefully.
- Finish Risotto: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and heavy cream, if using, mixing well until the risotto becomes creamy and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately for a warming, comforting meal.
Notes
- For added vegetables, stir in a handful of baby spinach or peas after cooking the risotto.
- The heavy cream is optional but enhances the richness and creaminess of the dish.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to better control the saltiness of the final dish.
- Ensure you allow a natural pressure release for part of the time to preserve texture and flavor.
