Risotto often has a reputation for being fussy or difficult, but this One Pot Creamy Parmesan Garlic Risotto with Lemon Pepper Chicken makes it simple, approachable, and absolutely delicious. You don’t need to stand over the stove for hours — just one pot, a few quality ingredients, and a little patience will reward you with a luxurious meal.
This dish strikes a beautiful balance between the creamy, comforting risotto and the bright, zesty chicken. The sharpness of Parmesan and garlic pairs perfectly with the peppery lemon flavor, creating a meal that’s rich but not heavy.
Using Arborio rice is key to achieving that signature creamy texture. As it cooks, it releases starches, creating a naturally luscious consistency without needing heavy cream.
Lemon pepper chicken adds a burst of flavor to contrast the richness of the risotto. The zesty lemon and aromatic black pepper infuse the chicken with a brightness that makes every bite exciting.
Another thing to love is that everything cooks in one pot, making both preparation and cleanup a breeze. It’s an ideal recipe for busy weeknights when you want something comforting but don’t want to deal with a pile of dishes afterward.
The combination of tender chicken and creamy rice makes this dish feel hearty and satisfying, perfect for when you need a meal that feels like a hug in a bowl.
You’ll also love how flexible this recipe is. Prefer turkey? Swap the chicken. Want to add some green? Toss in spinach or peas during the final minutes of cooking.
Unlike traditional risottos that demand constant stirring, this version is more forgiving. A few occasional stirs are all it takes to achieve that creamy texture.
The flavors are crowd-pleasing yet sophisticated enough to serve to guests. It’s an easy way to impress friends and family with minimal effort.
Cooking everything in the same pot means the rice soaks up every bit of flavor from the chicken and broth, making each bite layered and delicious.
The garlic and Parmesan are what truly elevate this risotto, giving it a savory depth that feels both rustic and luxurious at the same time.
This is the kind of recipe that quickly becomes a favorite because it tastes like comfort but is polished enough for any dinner occasion.
And the aroma! As the risotto simmers with garlic, Parmesan, and lemony chicken, your kitchen will smell like a cozy Italian trattoria.
If you’re looking for a one-pot wonder that delivers on flavor, texture, and comfort, this Creamy Parmesan Garlic Risotto with Lemon Pepper Chicken will quickly earn a permanent spot in your meal rotation.
Servings: 4 servings
Time: Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 3 cups chicken broth, warmed
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Season chicken breasts with lemon pepper seasoning.
- In a large pot or deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until golden and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, add butter and diced onion. Sauté until translucent.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in Arborio rice, cooking for 1-2 minutes to toast slightly.
- Add warmed chicken broth, one cup at a time, stirring occasionally, letting the rice absorb the broth before adding more.
- Once all broth is absorbed and rice is creamy and tender, stir in Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
- Slice cooked chicken and place on top of the risotto.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot.
Tips:
- Use warmed broth for the creamiest risotto texture.
- Toasting the rice briefly enhances the nutty flavor.
- Adjust lemon juice to taste depending on how bright you want the dish.
- Stirring occasionally, not constantly, still results in a creamy risotto.
- Let the cooked chicken rest a few minutes before slicing for juicier results.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
This One Pot Creamy Parmesan Garlic Risotto with Lemon Pepper Chicken is luxurious yet simple, bringing restaurant-quality comfort food to your kitchen with minimal fuss. The bright lemon flavors and creamy risotto are a match made in culinary heaven.
Whip up a comforting and impressive meal with this One Pot Creamy Parmesan Garlic Risotto with Lemon Pepper Chicken. Creamy, flavorful, and easy — it’s a dinner dream come true!
