One Pot Chicken Risoni with Crispy Salami Recipe

Quick & Creamy One Pot Chicken Risoni with Crispy Salami Recipe

Whipping up a delightful one pot chicken risoni satisfies those midweek dinner cravings like nothing else.

Comfort meets convenience in this simple Mediterranean-inspired dish that comes together effortlessly.

Savory salami adds a delicious crispy texture to tender chicken and hearty pasta.

Every bite promises a burst of flavor that feels both comforting and exciting.

Home cooks appreciate meals that minimize cleanup while maximizing taste and satisfaction.

Layers of herbs and spices create a harmonious blend that makes this recipe truly special.

Why One Pot Chicken Risoni With Crispy Salami Is A One-Dish Wonder

  • Simplify Cooking: Prepare a delightful meal using just one pot, minimizing cleanup and making dinner a breeze for busy home cooks.
  • Flavor-Packed Performance: Crispy salami adds a crunchy texture and rich, savory taste that elevates the entire dish from ordinary to extraordinary.
  • Quick Weeknight Winner: Combine chicken, risoni, and pantry staples for a satisfying meal that comes together faster than ordering takeout, perfect for families and individuals seeking a speedy solution.
  • Versatile Comfort Food: Adaptable recipe allows for easy ingredient swaps or additions, making it suitable for different taste preferences and dietary needs while maintaining its delicious core.

What You’ll Need For Chicken Risoni With Crispy Salami

Main Protein:
  • Chicken Breast: A lean, tender protein that adds substance and flavor to the dish.
  • Salami: A savory, crispy ingredient that provides a rich, meaty crunch as a topping.
Grains and Pasta:
  • Risoni: A small, rice-shaped pasta that creates a creamy, comforting base for the dish.
Vegetables and Aromatics:
  • Onion, Garlic: Foundational ingredients that build a deep, aromatic flavor profile.
  • Frozen Peas: Sweet, tender vegetables that add a pop of color and freshness to the meal.
Liquid and Seasoning:
  • Chicken Broth: A flavorful liquid that helps cook the risoni and infuse the dish with rich taste.
  • Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance and balance the overall flavor of the dish.
Finishing Touches:
  • Olive Oil: A cooking fat that helps sauté ingredients and prevent sticking.
  • Parmesan Cheese: A salty, umami-rich cheese that adds a delightful finish to the dish.

Steps To Make One Pot Chicken Risoni

Step 1: Sizzle Salami to Crispy Perfection

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the salami slices and cook until they turn golden and crisp. Transfer the crunchy salami to a plate and set aside for later.

Step 2: Soften Aromatics

In the same pot with the remaining oil, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions become translucent and fragrant.

Step 3: Brown Chicken Chunks

Add diced chicken breast to the pot. Cook and stir until the chicken develops a beautiful golden-brown color on all sides.

Step 4: Introduce Risoni and Broth

Pour in the risoni and chicken broth. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook for approximately 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Add Green Goodness

Sprinkle in the frozen peas and continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes. Ensure the risoni is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Step 6: Season and Finish

Enhance the flavor with salt and pepper to your liking. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Step 7: Plate and Garnish

Transfer the risoni to serving dishes. Sprinkle the crispy salami on top and finish with a generous dusting of grated Parmesan cheese.

Tips For Creamy Risoni With Crispy Salami

  • Swap salami for bacon or pancetta to add a different crispy protein element with similar richness.
  • Choose short-grain risoni to ensure creamy, perfectly cooked texture that absorbs chicken broth effectively.
  • Pat chicken breasts dry before cooking to help achieve better browning and develop deeper flavor profiles.
  • For gluten-free version, use gluten-free risoni or substitute with quinoa or cauliflower rice for lighter meal option.
  • Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley at the end for bright, fresh flavor that complements the savory chicken and salami.

Flavorful Variations On Chicken Risoni

  • Mediterranean Fusion: Replace salami with chorizo and add roasted red peppers for a Spanish-inspired version.
  • Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken with roasted butternut squash and use vegetable broth, keeping the crispy salami for added flavor.
  • Spicy Kick: Incorporate chili flakes, jalapeños, and swap Parmesan for pepper jack cheese to create a zesty rendition.
  • Herb-Infused Variation: Mix in fresh basil, thyme, and oregano during cooking, then garnish with lemon zest for a bright, aromatic profile.

What Pairs Well With This One-Pot Dinner

  • Enhance Flavor Symphony: Pairing Recommendations
  • Elevate Crisp White Wine Match: A chilled Pinot Grigio perfectly complements the creamy risoni and cuts through the richness of salami, creating a balanced taste experience.
  • Spark Mediterranean Salad Side: Prepare a fresh Greek salad with cucumber, tomatoes, and feta cheese to add bright, tangy notes that contrast the dish's warm, hearty elements.
  • Boost Herb Garnish Magic: Sprinkle fresh basil or chopped parsley over the risoni to introduce vibrant, aromatic layers that lift the entire dish's flavor profile and add visual appeal.
  • Amplify Crusty Bread Companion: Serve with warm, rustic sourdough bread to soak up the delicious sauce and provide a satisfying textural contrast to the creamy risoni.

Storing Chicken Risoni With Salami Leftovers

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Cover with plastic wrap or lid to prevent moisture loss and protect from other food odors.
  • Transfer cooled risoni to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Remove excess air, seal tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Avoid freezing dishes with crispy salami to maintain texture.
  • Gently warm in a pot over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to restore moisture. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.
  • Place portion in microwave-safe dish, cover with damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals.

FAQs About Chicken Risoni With Crispy Salami

  • What is risoni pasta?

Risoni is a small, rice-shaped pasta also known as orzo. It looks like rice but is actually a type of pasta made from durum wheat, commonly used in soups, salads, and one-pot dishes.

  • Can I substitute the salami?

Yes, you can replace salami with bacon, pancetta, or chorizo for a similar crispy, savory topping. Each will add a unique flavor to the dish.

  • Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! The mild flavors of chicken, peas, and cheese make this a great meal for children. The small pasta shape is easy for kids to eat.

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One Pot Chicken Risoni with Crispy Salami Recipe

One Pot Chicken Risoni with Crispy Salami Recipe


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4.7 from 39 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Savory One Pot Chicken Risoni with Crispy Salami combines Mediterranean comfort with effortless cooking. Hearty pasta, tender chicken, and crunchy salami create a satisfying meal that brings rustic Italian flavors directly to your table.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 500 grams (1.1 pounds) chicken breast, diced
  • 100 grams (3.5 ounces) salami, sliced

Vegetables and Aromatics:

  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup frozen peas

Grains and Liquids:

  • 1 cup risoni
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Garnish:

  • Grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Render the salami in a spacious pot over medium heat until golden and crisp, then transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
  2. Sauté the onions and garlic in the same pot until translucent and fragrant, approximately 3-4 minutes.
  3. Introduce the chicken pieces and cook until they develop a rich, caramel-colored exterior, roughly 5-6 minutes.
  4. Incorporate the risoni and chicken broth, stirring to prevent sticking, and allow the mixture to simmer gently for 10-12 minutes.
  5. Fold in the frozen peas and continue cooking until the pasta reaches an al dente texture and most liquid is absorbed.
  6. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, ensuring a balanced flavor profile.
  7. Plate the risoni and crown with the crispy salami bits and a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Notes

  • Swap salami for turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon bits to reduce fat and create a lighter version for health-conscious eaters.
  • Add a splash of white wine while cooking to enhance the depth of flavor and create a more sophisticated taste profile.
  • Incorporate fresh herbs like chopped basil or parsley just before serving to boost freshness and add a vibrant green color to the dish.
  • For a gluten-free alternative, replace risoni with quinoa or gluten-free small pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions without compromising texture.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 425 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 850 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 40 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg
Samantha Lee

Samantha Lee

Recipe Developer & Content Creator

Expertise

Plant-based and vegetarian recipes, Recipe testing and development, Food blogging and digital content creation, Culinary education and workshops​

Education

Oregon Culinary Institute (Portland, OR)

  • Program: Diploma in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Emphasized plant-based cooking, global cuisines, and recipe testing methodologies.​

Samantha sees cooking like painting, every fresh herb, every juicy tomato, a new splash of color on a canvas.
After graduating from Oregon Culinary Institute, she blended her love of global cuisines and plant-based cooking into recipes that feel fresh, fearless, and full of heart.
Samantha’s kitchen is a place where comfort food gets a modern remix and every meal feels like a little adventure. When she’s not cooking, she’s out exploring farmers’ markets, sketching new recipe ideas, or getting her hands dirty in a community garden.

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