If you’re craving a dinner that’s bursting with flavor and comes together effortlessly, look no further than the One Pot Chicken Risoni with Crispy Salami Recipe. This dish combines tender chicken, nutty risoni pasta, and the irresistible crunch of crispy salami—all cooked in one pan for a fuss-free yet impressive meal. It’s a perfect weeknight winner that feels comforting and a little bit fancy at the same time. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple but each one plays a vital role in making this dish shine. From the juicy chicken and crispy salami to the fragrant herbs and creamy Parmesan, every element contributes to a harmonious blend of textures, colors, and flavors.
- 2 chicken breasts or thighs, diced: Choose your favorite cut for tender, juicy bites.
- 200g risoni (or orzo pasta): Small pasta that cooks quickly and soaks up all the delicious flavors.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a lovely richness and helps brown the chicken perfectly.
- 4 slices salami, cut into strips: Gives a crispy, smoky contrast that makes this dish unforgettable.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Brings a subtle sweetness and aromatic base.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Boosts depth of flavor with its warm, inviting fragrance.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Offers a Mediterranean herbal note that complements the chicken and salami.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a gentle smoky warmth that binds everything together.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste): Essential for balancing all the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste): Brings just enough bite without overpowering.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Infuses the risoni with rich, savory goodness as it cooks.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds creamy, salty richness that finishes the dish perfectly.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): A fresh pop of color and brightness on top.
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for extra creaminess): Makes the dish silky and luxurious, but feel free to skip if you prefer.
How to Make One Pot Chicken Risoni with Crispy Salami Recipe
Step 1: Cook and Season the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Toss in the diced chicken and sprinkle with salt, pepper, oregano, and smoked paprika. Let it cook for about 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chicken pieces develop a beautiful golden crust and are cooked through. Once done, scoop the chicken out and set it aside—this initial browning is key to building rich flavor in the final dish.
Step 2: Crisp the Salami
Next, in the same skillet, add your cut strips of salami. Cook them for 3 to 4 minutes, turning them occasionally until they’re crispy and slightly caramelized. This step adds an addictive texture and smoky punch that will elevate every bite. Once crispy, remove and set aside with the chicken.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
Use that flavorful salami oil left in the pan to sauté your chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until they soften and release their incredible aroma—this builds a fragrant base that’s impossible to resist. Don’t rush this step; those softened onions and garlic make all the difference.
Step 4: Cook the Risoni
Now add the risoni to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the onion-garlic mixture. Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the risoni cook for about 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If it looks too dry, add a splash more broth or water. The goal is a creamy, tender pasta that’s perfectly infused with the savory broth.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
Once your risoni is tender and most of the liquid absorbed, gently fold the cooked chicken and crispy salami back into the pan. For extra creaminess, stir in a tablespoon of butter if you like, followed by grated Parmesan cheese. Give everything a good mix until luxuriously combined. Taste and tweak the seasoning as needed—you’re so close to dinner perfection.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Spoon your delightful One Pot Chicken Risoni with Crispy Salami Recipe into bowls. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and, if you’re feeling indulgent, a little extra Parmesan on top. This adds a fresh, vibrant touch and truly completes the dish.
How to Serve One Pot Chicken Risoni with Crispy Salami Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley isn’t just for color; its bright, herbaceous flavor cuts through the richness beautifully. Adding a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top enhances the creamy, salty notes and makes every mouthful more satisfying. For a little heat, consider a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil.
Side Dishes
Since the One Pot Chicken Risoni with Crispy Salami Recipe is already hearty and full of flavor, simple sides work best. Think a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or roasted vegetables drizzled with olive oil and lemon. Garlic bread is another fantastic choice if you want to keep things cozy and carb-laden.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this dish straight from the skillet for a rustic, family-style meal that invites sharing and conversation. For a dinner party, plate it elegantly in shallow bowls and garnish with microgreens or edible flowers for a touch of sophistication. You can also add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving for a bright punch that wakes up the whole dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers from the One Pot Chicken Risoni with Crispy Salami Recipe store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors deepen after resting, making the next-day meal just as delightful. Just be sure to cool it to room temperature before refrigerating to maintain the best texture.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, although minor texture changes might occur with the risoni. Portion leftovers into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to two months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it feels dry. This keeps the risoni creamy and prevents it from sticking. Microwave reheating works too—just cover and heat in short bursts, stirring in between to warm evenly.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta instead of risoni?
Yes! While risoni or orzo offer a perfect texture, small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or tiny shells will work well too. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely. Use gluten-free orzo or a small gluten-free pasta to keep things safe. Make sure your chicken broth is also gluten-free to avoid hidden gluten.
Can I substitute the salami for another meat?
Definitely. Pancetta, bacon, or chorizo can be great alternatives that bring their own unique flavor and crispiness, keeping that smoky, savory element alive.
What if I want a vegetarian version?
Skip the chicken and salami and use vegetable broth. Add mushrooms or smoked tofu for texture and umami, and consider more herbs and spices to boost flavor complexity.
How creamy is this dish really?
The butter and Parmesan create a creamy, comforting finish, but it’s not overly rich. If you want it less creamy, simply skip the butter or reduce the cheese a bit.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so satisfying about the One Pot Chicken Risoni with Crispy Salami Recipe that makes it perfect for busy nights or special occasions. It combines ease, flavor, and that wonderful sense of home-cooked goodness in one pan. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover how quickly it becomes one of your favorite go-to meals. Happy cooking!
Print
One Pot Chicken Risoni with Crispy Salami Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
A comforting one-pot meal featuring tender chicken, crispy salami, and creamy risoni pasta flavored with aromatic herbs and smoked paprika. This quick and easy recipe delivers rich flavors and a satisfying texture in just 30 minutes, perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Protein
- 2 chicken breasts or thighs, diced
- 4 slices salami, cut into strips
Pasta
- 200g risoni (or orzo pasta)
Produce
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Pantry Items & Spices
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for extra creaminess)
Instructions
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt, pepper, oregano, and smoked paprika. Cook for 5-6 minutes, until the chicken is golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Crisp the salami: In the same skillet, add the sliced salami strips and cook for 3-4 minutes, until crispy. Remove the crispy salami from the skillet and set aside with the chicken.
- Sauté aromatics: Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet, and cook for 2-3 minutes, until softened and fragrant.
- Cook the risoni: Add the risoni to the skillet and stir to combine with the onions and garlic. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the risoni cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid is absorbed and the risoni is tender. Add more broth or water if needed to cook the risoni.
- Combine and finish: Once the risoni is cooked, stir in the chicken and crispy salami. Add butter (if using) and grated Parmesan cheese, and stir until everything is well combined and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve: Serve the chicken risoni in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- Use chicken breasts or thighs based on your preference; thighs offer more juiciness.
- Risoni can be substituted with orzo pasta without affecting the dish.
- If you prefer less salt, adjust the seasoning accordingly or use low-sodium chicken broth.
- Adding butter is optional but enhances the creaminess of the dish.
- Keep an eye on the risoni while cooking and add extra liquid if necessary to prevent sticking or burning.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
