One Pot Chicken Risoni with Crispy Salami

One Pot Chicken Risoni with Crispy Salami is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings together tender chicken, savory salami, and satisfying risoni pasta, all cooked in one pot. The beauty of this dish lies not only in its delicious flavors but also in its simplicity. With minimal preparation and cooking time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a comforting meal that doesn’t take hours to prepare. The crispy salami adds a delightful crunch, complementing the richness of the chicken and the creaminess of the Parmesan. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this one-pot wonder will surely be a crowd-pleaser.

The combination of chicken, pasta, and peas in a savory broth creates a comforting base that’s both filling and nutritious. Plus, the fact that it’s all made in one pot makes cleanup a breeze, allowing you to enjoy your meal without the hassle of washing multiple pans. Whether you’re new to cooking or an experienced chef, this dish will make you feel like a culinary pro with its simple ingredients and easy steps.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. One Pot Convenience

Cooking everything in one pot means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.

2. Crispy Salami Adds Flavor

The crispy salami provides an unexpected crunch, adding a smoky, savory flavor that enhances the dish.

3. Quick and Easy

With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.

4. Comforting and Hearty

The combination of chicken, pasta, and peas creates a satisfying meal that will keep you full and content.

5. Versatile

This dish is easy to customize by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping the chicken for another protein like turkey or sausage.

Ingredients

• Olive oil
• Salami, sliced
• Onion, chopped
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Chicken breast, diced
• Risoni
• Chicken broth
• Frozen peas
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Variations

1. Vegetarian Version

Skip the chicken and salami, and use extra vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, and mushrooms for a meat-free meal.

2. Add Extra Veggies

For more color and nutrition, add carrots, zucchini, or spinach along with the peas.

3. Swap Chicken for Another Protein

Substitute the chicken breast with turkey breast, chicken thighs, or even cooked shrimp for a different twist.

4. Spicy Version

Add some red pepper flakes or a dash of chili powder for a bit of heat.

5. Use Different Pasta

If you can’t find risoni, use orzo, or any small pasta like penne or farfalle, which will also absorb the flavors of the broth nicely.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Salami

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced salami and cook until crispy. Remove the salami and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Brown the Chicken

Add the diced chicken breast to the pot and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 4: Cook the Risoni

Stir in the risoni and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the risoni is tender.

Step 5: Add Peas

Stir in the frozen peas and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the risoni is fully cooked and the peas are heated through.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the chicken risoni topped with the crispy salami and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use a Large Pot: Make sure your pot is big enough to hold all the ingredients comfortably. A large Dutch oven or stockpot works well.
• Monitor the Chicken: Keep an eye on the chicken to ensure it doesn’t overcook and dry out. Stir occasionally for even cooking.
• Adjust Seasoning: Depending on the saltiness of your salami and chicken broth, you may need to adjust the salt and pepper.
• Don’t Overcook the Risoni: Risoni cooks quickly, so check it after 10 minutes to prevent it from becoming too soft or mushy.
• Add More Flavor: For extra depth, consider adding a splash of white wine or a squeeze of lemon juice at the end.

How to Serve

• With a Side Salad: Serve this dish with a fresh, crisp salad for a well-rounded meal.
• With Garlic Bread: A slice of garlic bread would pair perfectly with the creamy risoni, making it even more indulgent.
• On Its Own: This dish is filling enough to stand alone, with the crispy salami adding all the extra flavor you need.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover chicken risoni in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little extra chicken broth or water to restore the creamy texture.

Freezing

This dish freezes well. To freeze, allow the chicken risoni to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stovetop with a bit of broth or water.

Reheating

Reheat in a large pot on low heat, adding a little chicken broth or water to bring the consistency back. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta instead of risoni?

Yes, you can substitute orzo or another small pasta if risoni is unavailable.

2. How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Cook the chicken just until browned on the outside and avoid overcooking by keeping an eye on it while simmering.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep everything in advance and reheat it when ready to serve. It also freezes well.

4. Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, turkey or even pork can be substituted for the chicken in this recipe.

5. How can I make the dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or chili powder when cooking the onion and garlic for some extra heat.

6. Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh peas can be used in place of frozen peas, but they may require a slightly shorter cooking time.

7. Can I substitute salami for another cured meat?

Yes, prosciutto, pancetta, or even pepperoni would work well as a substitute for salami.

8. How do I know when the risoni is cooked?

Risoni should be tender but not mushy. Taste a small spoonful to check its doneness.

9. Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Yes, vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian version of this dish.

10. How do I store the crispy salami leftovers?

Store the crispy salami in a separate airtight container in the fridge to maintain its crispiness. Add it back on top when reheating the dish.

Conclusion

One Pot Chicken Risoni with Crispy Salami is the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. The combination of tender chicken, flavorful salami, and creamy risoni makes this dish a go-to for busy nights when you want something hearty without all the hassle. With its simplicity and versatility, you can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences. Whether served with a side salad or on its own, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

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