Grilled chicken breast

Grilled Chicken Breast with Vegetable Risotto Recipe

Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Discover the simple and savory delight of grilled chicken breast, a dish that not only satisfies the taste buds but is also quick to prepare. This main course, paired with a creamy vegetable risotto, will take you on an unforgettable culinary journey.

A Bit of History
Chicken breast is a versatile ingredient, appreciated worldwide for its delicate texture and ability to absorb the flavors of spices. Grilled, it becomes a popular choice for summer meals as well as everyday dining, thanks to the short cooking time required. Risotto, on the other hand, has deep roots in culinary tradition, being a comforting and hearty dish, perfect for balancing the mildly spicy flavor of the chicken.

Ingredients
- 800 g boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- A few drizzles of olive oil

For Vegetable Risotto
- 250 g arborio rice
- 1 liter vegetable broth (or water)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 carrot, diced
- 100 g frozen peas
- 50 g grated parmesan
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Necessary Utensils
- A marinating bowl
- A non-stick skillet or grill
- A pot for risotto
- A spatula or wooden spoon

Step by Step to Perfect Chicken Breast

1. Preparing the Chicken Breast
Start by slicing the chicken breast into thin strips. This technique not only reduces cooking time but also ensures even marination. If preferred, you can use a meat mallet to flatten them, which will help with even cooking.

2. Seasoning
In a bowl, combine the salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper. Sprinkle the spice mixture over the chicken slices, ensuring each piece is well coated. Add a few drizzles of olive oil to help the spices adhere and prevent sticking on the grill.

3. Marinating
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit in the refrigerator for an hour. This step is essential for allowing the flavors to penetrate deeply into the meat, making it more flavorful and juicy.

4. Cooking the Chicken
Preheat the grill (or non-stick skillet) over medium heat. Place the chicken slices on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden and juicy. Check for doneness using a meat thermometer (the internal temperature should reach 75°C).

5. Resting
Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in juicier meat.

Making the Vegetable Risotto

1. Sauté the Vegetables
In a pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and carrot, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they become translucent.

2. Add the Rice
Add the arborio rice and stir well, ensuring each grain is coated with butter. Allow it to toast for 1-2 minutes to release its flavors.

3. Cook the Risotto
Gradually add the vegetable broth (or water), one ladle at a time, stirring constantly. Wait for the liquid to be absorbed before adding the next ladle. Continue this process for about 18-20 minutes, until the rice becomes creamy and al dente.

4. Finishing the Risotto
In the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the frozen peas. Finally, stir in the grated parmesan, season with salt and pepper to taste, and mix again.

Serving
Arrange the slices of chicken breast on a platter alongside a generous serving of vegetable risotto. You can garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a pleasing presentation and added flavor. Serve with a glass of dry white wine or sparkling water for a balanced and comforting meal.

Helpful Tips
- If you want to add extra flavor, try marinating the chicken with lemon juice or herbs like rosemary or thyme.
- The risotto can be customized with your favorite vegetables or seafood for a more sophisticated version.
- If you have leftover risotto, you can turn it into delicious fritters by adding an egg and a bit of flour, then frying them in a skillet.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen chicken breast? It's preferable to use fresh chicken breast for the best results. If using frozen, make sure it is fully thawed before marinating.
- How can I check if the chicken is cooked? Use a meat thermometer. If you don't have one, ensure there are no pink juices when cutting into the meat.
- What other sides pair well with grilled chicken breast? A fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or mashed potatoes are excellent options.

Try this simple and delicious grilled chicken breast recipe, combined with vegetable risotto, and transform your meals into a culinary experience! Enjoy your meal!