Italian Chicken Sausage Risotto 🍚🍗

Indulge in this creamy and savory Italian Chicken Sausage Risotto that is not only comforting but also bursting with flavor. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is a delightful way to elevate your cooking game.

The combination of fragrant garlic, sweet onions, and juicy chicken sausage creates a wonderfully aromatic base, while the Arborio rice lends a luxuriously creamy texture. Pair this risotto with a crisp salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. 🍞🥗

Ingredients

Main Components

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 package (16 ounces) Italian chicken sausage, casings removed
• 1 cup chopped sweet onion
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 1/4 cups Arborio rice
• 1 cup Chardonnay or other dry white wine
• 3 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup frozen petite sweet peas
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions

1. In a large Dutch oven or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chicken sausage and chopped onion; sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and thyme; cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
4. Add the Arborio rice and wine, stirring for 1-2 minutes until the wine is absorbed.

🍷 For extra depth of flavor, choose a wine that you would enjoy drinking. The better the wine, the tastier your risotto!

5. Gradually stir in 3 cups of chicken broth. Lower the heat to medium-low and let it simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the broth is absorbed, about 15 minutes.
6. Continue adding broth, 1/4 cup at a time, stirring until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender and creamy, about 5 more minutes.
7. Stir in the frozen peas and 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese, cooking for 1 minute until heated throughout.
8. Season with black pepper and garnish with fresh parsley and extra cheese before serving. Enjoy immediately!

🌱 If you have fresh herbs like parsley or basil, sprinkle them as a garnish for an added pop of color and freshness.

Variations

• Vegetarian: Omit the chicken sausage and add mushrooms for an earthy flavor. You can also add spinach or zucchini for extra veggies. 🍄🥒
• Seafood Risotto: Swap chicken sausage for shrimp or scallops, adding them in the final minutes of cooking to ensure they're perfectly tender.
• Saffron Risotto: For an aromatic twist, infuse the broth with a few strands of saffron. This luxurious addition gives a beautiful color and unique flavor.

Elevate your dinner with this delightful Italian Chicken Sausage Risotto that will leave everyone asking for seconds! 🍽️✨