Chicken and Mushroom Risotto without Wine (Easy Recipe)

Chicken and mushroom risotto without wine is a classic Italian dish that is known for its creamy texture and rich flavors.

While many traditional risotto recipes call for the addition of white wine, you can still create a delicious and satisfying dish without it.

Chicken and mushroom risotto is a comforting and savory meal that is perfect for a cozy dinner at home.

By omitting the wine, you can still enjoy all the delicious flavors of the dish without the addition of alcohol.

Here’s how you can make a flavorful chicken and mushroom risotto without wine:

Chicken and Mushroom Risotto without Wine

When you’re in the mood for a comforting and indulgent meal, a bowl of chicken and mushroom risotto hits the spot.

This recipe is the ultimate combination of creamy arborio rice, tender chicken, and earthy mushrooms. It’s a dish that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds.

And the best part? You don’t need to worry about opening a bottle of wine or having it on hand. You can create a flavorful risotto without it.

Ingredients

For this chicken and mushroom risotto recipe without wine, you will need the following ingredients:

• Chicken broth: This is the key ingredient that adds depth and flavor to the risotto. Make sure to use a good quality chicken broth for the best results.
• Chicken breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breast works best in this recipe. It adds protein and a meaty texture to the dish.
• Arborio rice: Arborio rice is a short-grain rice that is commonly used in risotto. Its high starch content helps create the creamy consistency that is characteristic of risotto.
• Mushrooms: Use your favorite mushrooms for this recipe. Whether it’s cremini, shiitake, or button mushrooms, they will add a rich and earthy flavor to the dish.
• Onion and garlic: These aromatics provide a strong base flavor for the risotto.
• Parmesan cheese: Grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty and tangy taste to the risotto while also contributing to its creamy texture.
• Butter: A small amount of butter adds richness and enhances the flavors of the dish.
• Fresh herbs: Optional but highly recommended, adding fresh herbs like thyme or parsley at the end of the cooking process will elevate the flavors of the risotto.

How to Make Chicken and Mushroom Risotto without Wine

Follow these steps to make a delicious chicken and mushroom risotto without wine:

1. Prepare the chicken broth: In a separate pot, heat the chicken broth until it simmers. Keep it warm over low heat.
2. Cook the chicken: Season the chicken breast with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Cook the chicken until it is no longer pink in the center, about 6-8 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest. Once it has cooled slightly, shred it into bite-sized pieces.
3. Saute the mushrooms, onions, and garlic: In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed and sauté the mushrooms, onions, and garlic until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the rice and cook: Stir in the Arborio rice and cook for a couple of minutes until it is lightly toasted. This helps to bring out its nutty flavor.
5. Add the chicken broth: Begin adding the warm chicken broth to the skillet, one ladleful at a time. Stir the rice constantly until the liquid is absorbed before adding more broth. Repeat this process until the rice is cooked al dente, which takes about 20-25 minutes.
6. Finish the risotto: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the shredded chicken, Parmesan cheese, and butter. Keep stirring until the cheese and butter have melted and the risotto reaches a creamy consistency. If desired, add fresh herbs at this stage.
7. Serve and enjoy: Divide the chicken and mushroom risotto among serving plates and garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and herbs if desired. Serve immediately while it’s still hot.

For the complete list of ingredients and detailed instructions, please refer to the recipe card below.

Tips for the Best Wine-Free Chicken and Mushroom Risotto

• Use a good quality chicken broth: Since the chicken broth is the main flavor base for this risotto, using a high-quality broth will ensure a rich and delicious result. If you have homemade chicken broth, even better!
• Toast the rice: Toasting the Arborio rice in olive oil before adding the broth helps to bring out its nutty flavor and gives the risotto an extra layer of depth.
• Stir constantly: Risotto requires constant stirring to release the starches from the rice, resulting in a creamy texture. Be patient and keep stirring!
• Add the broth gradually: Adding the warm chicken broth to the risotto one ladleful at a time allows the rice to absorb the liquid gradually, resulting in a creamy and tender consistency.
• Adjust the seasoning: Taste the risotto throughout the cooking process and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may need to add a little more salt or pepper to enhance the flavors.

Recipe Variations

• Add vegetables: Feel free to incorporate other vegetables into this risotto. Peas, asparagus, or spinach would all be delicious additions. Simply sauté them along with the mushrooms, onions, and garlic.
• Use different protein: Swap out the chicken breast for diced cooked chicken thighs, cooked shrimp, or even cooked Italian sausage for different flavor profiles.
• Experiment with different cheeses: While Parmesan cheese adds a traditional flavor to risotto, you can try using other cheeses like goat cheese or Gruyère for a unique twist.
• Add herbs and spices: Enhance the flavor of the risotto by adding herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage. You can also experiment with spices like smoked paprika or dried chili flakes for a hint of heat.

What to Serve With Chicken and Mushroom Risotto

• Green salad: Serve a fresh green salad on the side to add some freshness and crunch to the meal. A simple vinaigrette or lemon dressing complements the richness of the risotto.
• Crusty bread: A slice of crusty bread or garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy risotto.
• Roasted vegetables: Add some roasted vegetables, such as roasted Brussels sprouts or carrots, to round out the meal and add more color and flavor.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerate: Store any leftover chicken and mushroom risotto in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3-4 days.
• Reheat: To reheat the risotto, add a splash of chicken broth or water to a skillet and warm it over medium-low heat until it is heated through. Stir occasionally to ensure even reheating.
• Freeze: If you have more leftover risotto than you can eat within a few days, you can freeze it. Place individual portions in freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.