One Pot Chicken Risoni with Crispy Salami

If you’re on the lookout for a dish that’s easy, flavorful, and can be whipped up all in one pot, this One Pot Chicken Risoni with Crispy Salami is exactly what you need. Imagine tender pieces of chicken cooked with soft, chewy risoni (or orzo) pasta, all simmered together in a single pot with savory seasonings. But the real magic? The crispy, golden salami pieces that bring a salty, slightly crispy bite to every spoonful. It’s a dish that combines hearty comfort with a pop of bold flavors, and it comes together effortlessly.

Trust me, this recipe will become one of those weeknight wonders you keep coming back to when you want something satisfying but with minimal cleanup.

Why You’ll Love One Pot Chicken Risoni with Crispy Salami

Here’s why this dish is so easy to fall in love with:

• One Pot Wonder: Minimal dishes to clean? Yes, please! Everything cooks in one pot, from the chicken to the risoni, so you get all the delicious flavors without the hassle of extra pans or cleanup.
• Packed with Flavor: The tender chicken, rich seasonings, and crispy salami come together in perfect harmony. It’s hearty, savory, and totally satisfying, with a mix of textures that keeps each bite exciting.
• Quick & Easy: This dish is simple and ready in just under 30 minutes, which is perfect when you want something comforting and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Customizable: While this recipe is fantastic as is, it’s easy to swap out ingredients based on what you’ve got in your pantry or what your taste buds are craving. You can add vegetables like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms for an extra veggie boost.
• Kid-Friendly: The flavors are approachable and comforting, making it a win for picky eaters or family dinner nights.

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to create this flavorful, one-pot meal:

• Chicken Thighs or Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts, if you prefer) are your base. The thighs stay juicier, but breasts work just fine too.
• Risoni (Orzo Pasta): This small pasta is perfect for soaking up all the savory juices and seasoning, giving every bite a little pasta goodness.
• Salami: You’ll use thin slices of salami for that crispy, salty punch. As it crisps up in the pan, it adds that irresistible bite that pairs so well with the creamy chicken and pasta.
• Chicken Broth: A flavorful base for the risoni to cook in. It adds richness and depth of flavor to the entire dish.
• Garlic & Onion: Fresh garlic and onion bring all the savory goodness, forming the backbone of the flavor.
• Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the chicken and salami, this helps everything crisp up and adds richness to the dish.
• Seasonings: You’ll need some basic seasonings like salt, pepper, paprika, and dried thyme to really enhance the flavors. Italian seasoning or fresh herbs like parsley are optional but great for extra flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan adds that finishing touch, making the dish extra creamy and cheesy.
• Spinach (Optional): If you’re looking to add a little green to your plate, a handful of fresh spinach will wilt nicely into the dish for added nutrients and color.

(Note: Full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card below.)

Instructions

Ready to dive into this one-pot wonder? Here’s how you do it:

Step 1: Crisp the Salami

In a large pot or deep skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced salami and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown. Once crispy, remove the salami from the pan and set aside on a paper towel to drain.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In the same pot, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika, then add it to the pot. Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, until it’s golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should be 165°F/75°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken and set it aside to rest for a couple of minutes.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, add the diced onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. Scrape up any delicious bits of chicken and salami from the bottom of the pot—they’re full of flavor!

Step 4: Add the Risoni and Broth

Add the risoni to the pot and stir to coat it in the onion and garlic mixture. Pour in the chicken broth, then bring everything to a simmer. Let it cook uncovered for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the risoni is tender and the liquid has mostly absorbed.

Step 5: Finish the Dish

While the risoni cooks, slice the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. Once the pasta is done, stir in the chicken and most of the crispy salami (save a few pieces for garnish). If you’d like, toss in a handful of spinach at this point and stir until it wilts into the dish. Season with extra salt, pepper, and a pinch of dried thyme to taste.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

Top the dish with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan cheese and the reserved crispy salami. Serve immediately, and enjoy every delicious bite of this easy, one-pot meal!

How to Serve One Pot Chicken Risoni with Crispy Salami

While this dish is pretty much perfect on its own, here are a few ideas to round out the meal:

• Green Salad: A light, crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with the richness of the chicken and risoni.
• Garlic Bread or Crusty Rolls: Who doesn’t love a little bread to soak up all the goodness from this dish? Serve with some warm, crusty bread for an extra treat.
• Roasted Veggies: Roasted vegetables, such as carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers, complement the savory flavors and add a nice balance to the dish.
• Wine Pairing: A light white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, or a dry rosé works beautifully with the richness of the pasta and the crispy salami.

Additional Tips

• Use Leftover Chicken: If you’ve got some leftover rotisserie chicken, you can skip the cooking step for the chicken and just shred it into the dish once the risoni is ready. It’ll save you some time!
• Crispier Salami: If you want your salami extra crispy, you can cook it a bit longer. Just be sure not to burn it, as it can become too hard.
• Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to toss in other veggies like mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or even peas for added flavor and texture.
• Make It Spicy: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic and onions, or sprinkle some on top when serving.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A1: You can! While risoni is traditional here, any small pasta like penne, fusilli, or farfalle will work. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different shapes will require slightly different cook times.

Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?
A2: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can make it ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen up the pasta and prevent it from drying out.

Q3: Can I freeze this dish?
A3: Freezing this dish is possible, though the texture of the pasta might change slightly upon reheating. To freeze, store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, defrost in the fridge overnight and warm it in a pot with a bit of extra chicken broth.

Q4: Can I use turkey or another type of sausage instead of salami?
A4: Yes! Turkey sausage, chorizo, or even pancetta would make great alternatives to salami. Just make sure to crisp them up well in the pan before adding them to the dish.

Q5: Can I make this without the crispy salami?
A5: Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lighter option or simply don’t have salami on hand, you can leave it out. You could also substitute crispy bacon or grilled chicken for a similar savory effect.

Conclusion

One Pot Chicken Risoni with Crispy Salami is the definition of comfort food that’s both easy and full of flavor. With tender chicken, savory pasta, and crispy, salty salami, it’s the perfect dish for any night of the week. Plus, the best part? It all comes together in one pot, so cleanup is a breeze. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, this dish is sure to impress—and most importantly, satisfy! So grab your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal that’s as delicious as it is effortless.

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