Introduction
If you love rich, comforting meals that feel restaurant-quality but are easy to make at home, this Marry Me Chicken Risotto is about to become your new favorite dinner. Inspired by the viral “Marry Me Chicken,” this risotto version combines tender chicken, creamy Parmesan rice, garlic, herbs, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes into one irresistibly cozy dish.
The result? A creamy, flavor-packed meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights, special occasions, or when you simply want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. With simple ingredients, one-pan cooking, and foolproof steps, this Marry Me Chicken Risotto recipe delivers bold Tuscan flavors in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Marry Me Chicken Risotto
- One-Pot Wonder: This recipe uses just one pot and one skillet for minimal cleanup!
- Flavor Packed: The combination of creamy Parmesan, savory chicken, and sundried tomatoes creates an irresistible flavor profile.
- Hidden Veggies: Sneaky spinach adds a boost of nutrients without overpowering the dish.
- Easy Weeknight Meal: This risotto comes together in under an hour, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Impressive Yet Simple: This dish looks and tastes fancy but requires minimal effort, making it ideal for both casual dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Marry Me Chicken Risotto
Make sure to scroll to the recipe card below for exact measurements and step-by-step instructions.
- Arborio Rice – The secret to a perfectly creamy risotto.
- Chicken Broth – Provides rich, savory depth to the dish.
- Heavy Cream – Adds luscious creaminess for that indulgent texture.
- Shredded Parmesan Cheese – For umami richness and cheesy goodness.
- Fresh Thyme Leaves – Aromatic and flavorful, enhancing the chicken.
- Oregano – Complements the creamy sauce with a subtle herbal note.
- Kosher Salt – To season and bring out all the flavors.
- Fresh Baby Spinach – Adds color, nutrients, and a hint of freshness.
- Shallot, Finely Diced – Sweet and delicate, forming the base of the risotto.
- Garlic Cloves, Minced – Essential aromatic for a savory kick.
- Tomato Paste – Intensifies the flavors and gives a subtle tang.
- Sundried Tomatoes, Diced – Adds sweet-tangy bursts of flavor.
- Olive Oil – For sautéing and enriching the dish.
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast, Cubed – Tender, juicy protein that soaks up all the creamy sauce.
Marry Me Chicken Risotto – Creamy Tuscan-Style One-Pan Dinner That Everyone Loves
Description
This Marry Me Chicken Risotto is a rich, creamy, and comforting one-pan dinner inspired by the viral Tuscan chicken recipe. Made with tender chicken, Arborio rice, garlic, herbs, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan, it delivers restaurant-quality flavor using simple pantry ingredients. Perfect for busy weeknights, special occasions, or when you want an impressive meal without the effort.Ingredients
Instructions
-
Heat olive oil in a large, heavy-based skillet over medium heat. Season the diced chicken with salt and black pepper, then sear until golden brown on all sides. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside. Using high-quality chicken ensures a juicy and flavorful outcome.
-
In the same pan, add the finely diced onion (or shallot) and minced garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and translucent. This forms the flavor base of the risotto.
-
Add the Arborio rice to the pan and stir for 1–2 minutes, allowing the rice to lightly toast and absorb the aromatics. Toasting the rice helps release starch and creates the creamy texture risotto is famous for.
-
Gradually add warm chicken stock, one cup at a time, stirring continuously. Wait until each addition is mostly absorbed before adding the next. Maintain a gentle simmer and medium-low heat. This slow absorption method is key for achieving the perfect creamy consistency.
-
Once the rice is tender but still slightly firm to the bite (al dente), stir in heavy cream, Dijon mustard, paprika, oregano, thyme, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese. Return the cooked chicken to the pan and combine gently. This step layers richness, depth, and a luxurious texture into your dish.
-
Remove the skillet from the heat and fold in fresh baby spinach until just wilted. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. For extra flavor, garnish with fresh basil and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
-
Serve the risotto hot in individual bowls or on a platter. The creamy texture, tender chicken, and savory-sweet sundried tomatoes make this dish a perfect centerpiece for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Pro Cooking Tips
-
-
Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for juicier meat.
-
Warm the stock before adding it to prevent cooling the rice and ensure even cooking.
-
For a gluten-free version, swap Arborio rice with short-grain gluten-free rice and follow the same method.
-
Stir gently but continuously to release starch and achieve a creamy risotto without overcooking the rice.
-
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 2 days; reheat gently with a splash of cream or stock.
-
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 720kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 38g59%
- Saturated Fat 15g75%
- Trans Fat 0.01g
- Cholesterol 180mg60%
- Sodium 1450mg61%
- Potassium 820mg24%
- Total Carbohydrate 60g20%
- Dietary Fiber 5g20%
- Sugars 6g
- Protein 546g1092%
- Vitamin A 3200 IU
- Vitamin C 18 mg
- Calcium 680 mg
- Iron 5 mg
- Vitamin D 2 IU
- Vitamin E 3 IU
- Vitamin K 53 mcg
- Vitamin B6 1.2 mg
- Folate 90 mcg
- Vitamin B12 1.8 mcg
- Phosphorus 400 mg
- Magnesium 55 mg
- Zinc 3 mg
- Selenium 25 mcg
- Copper 0.3 mg
- Manganese 0.6 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Chicken Choice: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe, but you can also use chicken thighs for juicier meat. Leftover cooked chicken works perfectly too.
- Rice Tip: Arborio rice is essential for a creamy risotto texture. Avoid regular long-grain rice as it won’t absorb the liquid properly.
- Cream Alternatives: For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt or half-and-half. This will reduce calories without sacrificing creaminess.
- Hidden Veggies: You can easily add extra vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or peas to increase nutrition. Just chop them small for a smooth consistency.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: If unavailable, use roasted red peppers, cherry tomatoes, or a small spoon of tomato paste for a similar flavor boost.
- Make Ahead: You can prep the chicken and dice the vegetables in advance. Store in airtight containers until ready to cook.
- Storage: Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of stock or water to loosen the sauce. Freezing is not recommended as the risotto texture may change.
- Cheese Swap: Parmesan is preferred, but you can use Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or a hard vegan cheese alternative if desired.
