Introduction
Cooking can be a delightful experience, especially when it involves a hearty and satisfying dish like Creamy Tomato Parmesan Risoni with Chicken and Salami. This recipe combines tender chicken breast, crispy salami, and creamy risoni with spinach and a splash of wine, making it perfect for a cozy evening or a special gathering. Let’s dive into the ingredients needed to create this delicious meal.
Ingredients with Measures
– Olive oil: 1/2 tbsp
– Salami stick: 100g / 3 oz, cut into 3mm / 1/8″ thick rounds then chopped into small batons
– Chicken breasts: 2 x 250g / 8 oz, each cut in half horizontally to form 4 thin steaks
Chicken spice mix:
– Cooking salt / kosher salt: 1/2 tsp
– Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
– Garlic powder: 1/2 tsp
– Paprika: 3/4 tsp
– Sage powder (optional): 1/4 tsp
Creamy tomato parmesan risoni:
– Garlic cloves: 2, finely minced
– Onion: 1/2, finely chopped
– Dry white wine (optional): 1/4 cup
– Tomato paste: 1/4 cup
– Risoni/orzo (uncooked): 1 1/4 cups
– Canned chickpeas (or other beans): 400g / 14 oz, drained
– Chicken stock (low sodium or veg stock): 3 cups
– Cooking / kosher salt: 1/2 tsp
– Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
– Thickened / heavy cream (low-fat ok): 3/4 cup
– Parmesan, finely grated: 1/3 cup
– Baby spinach (or kale pieces): 150g / 5 oz
– Sun dried tomato (optional): 1/3 cup, chopped
Optional garnish:
– Basil (optional): 2 tbsp, roughly chopped
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
25 minutes
Total Time
45 minutes
Yield
Serves 4
This dish is not only bursting with flavor but also showcases a wonderful blend of textures, making every bite enjoyable. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this scrumptious meal!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Spice Mix
Mix the cooking salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and optional sage powder in a small bowl. Use this mixture to sprinkle on both sides of the chicken breasts.
Crispy Salami
Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add the chopped salami and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until golden and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the salami to a paper towel-lined bowl, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
Cook Chicken
In the same pan with the salami fat, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for 3 minutes on each side until they are dark golden and just cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 67°C (153°F). Remove the chicken from the pan and place it on a plate, covering loosely with foil to keep warm.
Sauté
Still using medium-high heat, add the minced garlic and chopped onion to the pan. Sauté for 1.5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Pour in the white wine (if using) and let it simmer rapidly for a couple of minutes until most of the liquid evaporates, stirring to dissolve any bits left on the base of the pan.
Risoni (Orzo)
Add the tomato paste to the pan and stir for 1 minute to cook out the raw flavor. Incorporate the uncooked risoni into the mixture, stirring to coat it with the tomato paste. Then add the drained chickpeas, chicken stock, salt, and black pepper.
Simmer
Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 8 minutes, stirring every minute. Keep an eye on the consistency; as it thickens, reduce the heat to medium to prevent the base from sticking.
Cream & Spinach
Add the heavy cream, grated parmesan, baby spinach, and optional sun-dried tomatoes to the pan. Stir until the spinach is wilted and incorporated. Remove the pan from the heat; the risoni should be tender and slightly oozy.
Finish
Slice the cooked chicken into thick pieces. If the chicken has cooled down, feel free to reheat briefly. Spoon the creamy risoni into bowls, top with sliced chicken, sprinkle with the crispy salami, additional parmesan, and optional chopped basil. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
Note 1
Cut the salami into 3mm (1/8″) thick rounds before chopping them into small batons for even cooking.
Note 2
When cutting the chicken breasts in half horizontally, ensure they are of even thickness for uniform cooking.
Note 3
The addition of white wine enhances the flavor but is optional; you can skip it if preferred.
Note 4
Risoni, also known as orzo, is a type of pasta shaped like rice. Ensure it’s uncooked before adding it to the dish.
Note 5
Chopped sun-dried tomatoes are optional and can be added for extra flavor. Fresh basil can also be used as a garnish for a fresh touch.
Note 6
If the risoni is still firm after cooking, add a little more chicken stock and continue to simmer until tender.
Note 7
If the chicken has cooled too much, it can be briefly heated before slicing.
Cook techniques
Spice Mix Preparation
Mix the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and sage powder in a small bowl. Sprinkle the mixture on both sides of the chicken breasts to season effectively.
Crispy Salami
Heat olive oil in a large non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Sauté the salami pieces for about 2 minutes until they become golden and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the salami to a paper towel-lined bowl to absorb excess oil.
Cooking Chicken
In the same pan with the salami fat, cook the seasoned chicken for approximately 3 minutes on each side until the outside is dark golden and the internal temperature reaches 67°C (153°F). Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and loosely cover it with foil to keep warm.
Sautéing Ingredients
Continuing in the same pan, add minced garlic and chopped onion. Cook for 1 ½ minutes until the onion becomes translucent. If using, pour in the white wine and let it simmer for a few minutes, stirring to dissolve the flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the pan.
Cooking Risoni (Orzo)
Incorporate the tomato paste into the sautéed mixture, stirring for 1 minute to reduce acidity. Add the uncooked risoni, chickpeas, chicken stock, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally until the risoni is nearly tender.
Adding Cream and Spinach
Once risoni is nearly cooked, lower the heat and mix in the cream, grated parmesan, baby spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes (if using). Stir until the spinach wilts and the mixture reaches a tender, creamy consistency.
Finishing Touches
Slice the cooked chicken into thick pieces. Serve the risoni in bowls, topped with the chicken slices, crispy salami, additional parmesan, and fresh basil if desired.
FAQ
Can I use other meats instead of chicken?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with other proteins such as turkey or pork, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
Is there a vegetarian option for this dish?
Absolutely! You can use plant-based proteins such as tofu or tempeh and vegetable stock instead of chicken stock to make it vegetarian.
What can I use instead of risoni/orzo?
You can replace risoni with other pasta shapes like small shells, or couscous for a different texture.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the risoni ahead of time, but it’s best to cook the chicken fresh to maintain its texture.
How should leftovers be stored?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Conclusion
The combination of crispy salami, succulent chicken, and creamy tomato parmesan risoni creates a heartwarming dish that is both satisfying and comforting. The rich flavors from the spices and ingredients meld beautifully, ensuring each bite is packed with taste. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or a delightful gathering, offering a blend of textures and flavors that everyone will love.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Spicy Chicken and Chickpea Stew
Combine chicken thighs with chickpeas, tomatoes, and spices like cumin and coriander for a warm, hearty stew.
Vegetable and Salami Stir-fry
Sauté various vegetables with crispy salami and serve over rice or noodles for a quick and easy meal.
Creamy Spinach and Tomato Pasta
Create a creamy sauce using spinach, tomatoes, and parmesan, and toss with any pasta of your choice for a delicious twist.
Orzo Salad with Veggies
Toss cooked risoni with diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and a lemon-olive oil dressing for a fresh salad.
Chickpea and Spinach Curry
Make a flavorful curry using chickpeas, spinach, coconut milk, and spices for a vibrant vegetarian dish.
Salami and Cheese Platter
Serve assorted cheeses, crispy salami, olives, and crusty bread for an easy appetizer or snack option.
