Risotto with chicken and mushrooms and crème fraîche

Chicken and Mushroom Risotto with Crème Fraîche: A Comforting Recipe for Special Moments

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Risotto is a classic dish that combines elegance with simplicity, adding a touch of sophistication to any meal. Originating from culinary tradition, risotto is known for its creamy texture and rich flavors, and today I will present to you a delicious version with chicken, mushrooms, and crème fraîche. This dish is not only an excellent choice for family dinners but also a wonderful way to impress guests.

Ingredients:

- 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
- 250 g mushrooms (preferably champignon or wild mushrooms), cleaned and sliced
- 100 g risotto rice (Arborio or Carnaroli are the most suitable)
- 300 ml chicken or vegetable broth (or soup made from stock cubes)
- 200 g crème fraîche
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- A pinch of nutmeg (optional, for added flavor)
- Dried oregano, to enhance the taste
- 100 g grated Parmesan or mozzarella (for an extra creaminess)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by preparing all the ingredients. Cut the chicken breast into even cubes so that it cooks evenly. Clean the mushrooms and slice them thinly. Chop the onion finely so that it caramelizes nicely.

2. Sautéing the onion: Preheat the oven to 180°C. In a deep skillet or pot, add a little olive oil and sauté the onion over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. This step is essential to add a layer of flavor to the risotto.

3. Adding the chicken: Add the chicken cubes to the skillet, season with salt, pepper, and oregano. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned on all sides. It is important not to overcrowd the skillet so that the chicken cooks evenly.

4. Including the mushrooms: Once the chicken is cooked, add the mushrooms and continue to cook for 5 minutes until they soften and release their juices. The mushrooms add a subtle flavor and a contrast of textures.

5. Cooking the rice: Now, add the risotto rice to the skillet and stir well so that each grain is coated with oil and the flavors from the skillet. This will help the rice cook evenly and absorb all the flavors.

6. Adding the broth: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, stirring constantly. It is essential to maintain a consistent temperature so that the rice absorbs the liquid gradually. Add a pinch of nutmeg to add a note of warmth and complexity.

7. Transferring to the dish: Once the rice has started to absorb the liquid, transfer the mixture to a heatproof ceramic dish or baking tray. Cover with aluminum foil and place in the oven for 20 minutes.

8. Finishing the risotto: After 20 minutes, remove the dish from the oven and remove the foil. Add the crème fraîche and mix well. This ingredient will give the risotto a creamy texture and rich flavor. Also, add the grated Parmesan or slices of mozzarella, stirring gently to incorporate. Put the dish back in the oven for another 5-10 minutes until the cheese melts and forms a golden crust.

9. Serving: Once the risotto is ready, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. It can be enjoyed alongside a fresh salad, adding a contrast of textures and flavors. A rocket salad with cherry tomatoes and lemon dressing would be an excellent accompaniment.

Helpful Tips for Perfect Risotto:

- Ensure that the rice is specifically for risotto, as its grain has a higher starch content, which will give the dish a creamy texture.
- The broth should always be hot when added to the rice to maintain a consistent temperature.
- Experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake or porcini, to add a distinct flavor note.
- If you want a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with tofu or vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.

Nutritional Information (per serving, estimated):

- Calories: 540
- Protein: 35 g
- Fat: 28 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 2 g

The chicken and mushroom risotto, enriched with crème fraîche, is a versatile dish that can be adapted to your tastes and preferences. Whether you serve it as a main course on a Sunday evening or as part of a feast with friends, this risotto will surely become a favorite at the table. Try it and enjoy every creamy and delicious bite!