If you love dishes that combine comforting textures with bold flavors without the fuss of multiple pots and pans, you are going to adore this One Pot Chicken Risoni with Crispy Salami Recipe. It’s a delightful medley where tender chicken, nutty risoni pasta, and irresistibly crispy salami come together in one skillet, creating a creamy, savory feast that feels both special and incredibly easy. This recipe is a fantastic go-to for busy weeknights but impressive enough to share with friends when you want to serve something memorable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keeping this dish simple and straightforward is key to its charm. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating layers of flavor,texture, and color that make this meal truly shine. From the rich and creamy Parmesan to the smoky hit of paprika, these ingredients turn a humble one-pot meal into a culinary celebration.
- 2 chicken breasts or thighs, diced: Choose thighs for extra juiciness or breasts for leaner protein; both work beautifully.
- 200g risoni (or orzo pasta): These tiny pasta grains cook quickly and soak up flavors wonderfully.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Essential for sautéing and adding a subtle fruitiness.
- 4 slices salami, cut into strips: For that crunchy, smoky burst that elevates the whole dish.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth once softened.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a fragrant warmth and savory punch.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Offers a herbaceous aroma that blends perfectly with chicken.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Infuses a subtle smoky nuance that complements the salami.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste): Balances and enhances all flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste): Adds just the right amount of heat.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Provides moisture and richness, allowing the risoni to cook tenderly.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Introduces a creamy, nutty finish that ties everything together.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh, bright contrast before serving.
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for extra creaminess): A little indulgence that makes the dish unbelievably smooth.
How to Make One Pot Chicken Risoni with Crispy Salami Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Chicken
Start by heating your olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Toss in the diced chicken and season it with salt, black pepper, oregano, and smoked paprika. Sauté for about 5 to 6 minutes until the chicken turns wonderfully golden and cooks through. Once done, remove it from the skillet and set aside — this step builds the base flavor that makes this dish so irresistible.
Step 2: Crisp the Salami
Using the same skillet, add the sliced salami strips. They cook fast, becoming deliciously crispy in about 3 to 4 minutes. This crispy salami adds an incredible texture contrast and smoky punch. When ready, take it out and keep it with the chicken, so those flavors can mingle later.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
Next up, toss in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic into the skillet. Cook them down for 2 to 3 minutes until they’re softened and your kitchen smells amazing. These aromatics are the secret to a flavor base that truly ties this dish together.
Step 4: Cook the Risoni
Now add the risoni pasta directly to the skillet and give it a good stir, letting it mingle with the onion and garlic. Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Cover with a lid and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The risoni will soak up the broth, becoming soft and tender. If it looks dry before the pasta is fully cooked, feel free to add a splash more broth or water.
Step 5: Combine and Creamify
Once the risoni is perfectly tender, stir back in the chicken and crispy salami pieces. If you want an extra velvety texture, add a tablespoon of butter here along with the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until everything is coated in a creamy, cheesy embrace. Taste and adjust salt or pepper as needed — this step is where all your flavors come fully alive.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Your One Pot Chicken Risoni with Crispy Salami Recipe is ready to be served hot from the skillet. Just sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top, maybe some extra Parmesan, and dig into a bowl of comfort that’s bursting with flavor and texture.
How to Serve One Pot Chicken Risoni with Crispy Salami Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a brilliant garnish because it adds a pop of color and a refreshing herbal note that balances the richness of the dish. A light dusting of extra Parmesan or a twist of black pepper on top will also enhance each bite.
Side Dishes
This one pot wonder pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or a simple roasted vegetable medley to bring some bright, fresh elements to the table. Garlic bread or crusty baguette slices also work well for dipping into that creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the risoni in hollowed-out tomatoes or small cast iron skillets for an individual portion presentation that looks impressive but is super practical. You could also add a drizzle of chili oil or a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for extra texture and flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Because this dish has creamy cheese, it’s best enjoyed fresh but will still taste great reheated thoughtfully.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers in portion-sized containers for up to 1 month. Just be aware the texture of the risoni might soften a bit after freezing, but the flavors remain delicious.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth as needed to loosen the sauce and keep the risoni creamy rather than dry.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta besides risoni?
Absolutely! Orzo or small pasta shapes like acini di pepe work well because they cook quickly and absorb flavors beautifully, just like risoni.
Is it necessary to use both chicken breasts and thighs?
Not at all! You can choose either. Thighs are more forgiving and tender, while breasts give a leaner bite — either choice tastes fantastic.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Swap the chicken and salami for hearty mushrooms and a smoky smoked cheese or use plant-based meat alternatives for a similar texture and taste experience.
What if I don’t have smoked paprika?
You can use regular paprika along with a small pinch of cumin or chili powder to imitate that smoky warmth. It won’t be the same but still delicious.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Just omit the Parmesan and butter or replace them with a dairy-free cheese and plant-based butter to maintain creaminess without the dairy.
Final Thoughts
This One Pot Chicken Risoni with Crispy Salami Recipe truly embodies convenience without sacrificing flavor or flair. It’s perfect for those moments when you want to whip something up with minimal cleanup but maximum taste. Give this recipe a try—you might just find it becoming one of your favorite go-to dinners when life is busy but your appetite is craving comfort and deliciousness.
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One Pot Chicken Risoni with Crispy Salami Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4.4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This One Pot Chicken Risoni with Crispy Salami is a hearty and flavorful Italian-inspired dish combining tender chicken, crispy salami, and creamy risoni pasta. It’s cooked all in one skillet, making it a convenient and delicious weeknight dinner option. The dish is seasoned with smoked paprika and oregano for a delightful smoky aroma, finished with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for a perfect balance of flavors.
Ingredients
Protein
- 2 chicken breasts or thighs, diced
- 4 slices salami, cut into strips
Dry Ingredients
- 200g risoni (or orzo pasta)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
Produce
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Liquids & Dairy
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for extra creaminess)
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt, pepper, oregano, and smoked paprika. Cook for 5-6 minutes, until the chicken is golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Crisp the Salami: In the same skillet, add the sliced salami strips and cook for 3-4 minutes, until crispy. Remove the crispy salami from the skillet and set aside with the chicken.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet, and cook for 2-3 minutes, until softened and fragrant.
- Cook the Risoni: Add the risoni to the skillet and stir to combine with the onions and garlic. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the risoni cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid is absorbed and the risoni is tender. Add more broth or water if needed to cook the risoni.
- Combine and Finish: Once the risoni is cooked, stir in the cooked chicken and crispy salami. Add butter (if using) and grated Parmesan cheese, and stir until everything is well combined and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve: Serve the chicken risoni in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- Use chicken thighs for juicier meat or breasts for leaner protein.
- If risoni is unavailable, substitute with orzo pasta.
- Add a splash of broth if the pasta is drying out before fully cooked.
- Butter is optional but adds extra creaminess to the dish.
- Leftovers store well in the fridge for 2-3 days; reheat gently to avoid drying out.
