2tablespoonsolive oilextra virgin plus more for finishing at the end
1largered oniondiced
3clovesgarlicminced
2cupsArborio rice
7cupschicken stock
1cupcarrotswe used leftover honeyed carrots, chopped
1cupsteamed zucchiniwe used leftover zucchini, chopped
1pieceroasted chicken breastchopped up into bite sized pieces
salt & Pepperto taste
Parmesan cheeseFreshly grated, to taste
Instructions
You can start by prepping your ingredients. This means combining everything and chopping the onion, garlic, carrots, zucchini, and chicken. You'll also want to heat the stock in a large saucepan and have it ready to add to the rice.
Heat a large sauté pan, or maybe you are using a large pot, but it is essential to get it hot before you add the oil.
When the oil is hot, add the onion and sauté for a few minutes until it turns translucent. I cook this at medium heat on my gas stove top.
Add the garlic and sauté for a minute or two. Be sure to continuously stir the onion and garlic so they don't burn.
Move the onion and garlic to the sides of the pan and add the Arborio rice.
Sauté for a few minutes to slightly toast the rice, and then combine the rice with the onion/garlic.
Start adding the hot broth to the rice one cup at a time, stirring continuously until it is absorbed by the rice before adding more. If the rice starts sticking to the bottom of the pan, turn down the heat a little and keep stirring.
Add the carrots, zucchini, and chicken to heat through when just one cup of stock remains. Add the rest of the stock and keep stirring.
Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. If you taste the rice and think it needs more time, add hot water until the risotto reaches your desired creaminess.
Serve in individual plates topped with extra virgin olive oil and fresh grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
This a great meal that's easy to make and a fabulous way to clean out the refrigerator.