Bacon, Cheddar, and Chicken Risotto

Introduction

Rich, creamy, and bursting with savory flavor, Bacon, Cheddar, and Chicken Risotto is a decadent twist on the Italian classic. The combination of smoky bacon, gooey sharp cheddar, and tender chicken turns a comforting rice dish into the ultimate crowd-pleasing dinner. This risotto is not only impressive but also irresistibly satisfying, making it an ideal centerpiece for family meals or special occasions.

Why Make Bacon, Cheddar, and Chicken Risotto?

This risotto recipe delivers a harmony of flavors and textures—crispy bacon, gooey cheese, and juicy morsels of chicken in every bite. Unlike classic risotto, where the focus is more subtle, this version leans into bold, hearty American comfort. Best of all, you can make it with pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients, transforming ordinary weeknight dinners into something unforgettable.

Essential Prep for Comforting Risotto

Perfect risotto starts with prepping each ingredient ahead of time. Use a sharp chopper like the Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper to quickly and evenly dice onions, which build flavor in your base. For slicing chicken or shredding cooked pieces, a sturdy Ninja Fit Compact Personal Blender can even help with prepping mix-ins or blending in some veggies if you’d like a smooth finish.

For a crispy bacon topping, render bacon bits evenly in a quality skillet. The SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet, 9.5 Inch yields perfect crispness and is easy to clean.

Building Layers of Flavors

This recipe relies on a conventional stovetop method. Slowly ladling in warm broth and stirring gently allows the rice to release its starch, creating risotto’s signature creamy texture. A useful utensil like the Farberware Professional Heat Resistant Nylon Meat and Potato Masher helps break up both the chicken and cooked bacon for even mixing throughout the rice.

Best Tips for Creamy, Restaurant-Style Risotto

– Use warm broth for consistent absorption.
– Stir often but not constantly—a gentle rhythm is all you need.
– Let the risotto stay loosened (not too thick) so the cheddar melts smoothly at the end.
– For meal prep or taking leftovers on the go, store your risotto in an airtight, spill-proof container like the Bentgo Salad Container – 54 oz Bowl.

Bacon, Cheddar, and Chicken Risotto Ingredients

Instructions

1. Heat a large nonstick skillet like the SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet over medium heat. Add bacon and cook until crispy, 5-7 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving bacon fat in the pan.
2. Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Add to the pan and sear until golden and cooked through, about 6 minutes. Remove, chop or shred using the Chicken Shredder Tool Twist for Kitchen, and set aside.
3. Add a bit of olive oil if needed, and sauté onion in the same pan until translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in garlic and rice; toast for 2 minutes, stirring to coat grains with oil.
4. Begin adding the warm chicken broth ½ cup at a time, stirring regularly and letting rice absorb most liquid before next addition. Continue for 18-22 minutes, until the rice is tender but still slightly firm.
5. Stir in butter, cheddar cheese, Parmesan, and half the crispy bacon. Once cheese is fully melted and risotto has a creamy texture, fold in the chicken. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
6. Spoon the risotto into bowls, sprinkle with the remaining bacon and fresh chives if desired. Serve immediately for peak creaminess.

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Nutritional Information and Serving Size

This comforting risotto serves 4 hearty portions. Each serving provides approximately 530-570 calories, depending on bacon and cheese variety. The recipe also offers a balanced dose of protein and creamy satisfaction—perfect for a filling weeknight meal!

Recap: The Ultimate Comfort in Every Bite

Bacon, Cheddar, and Chicken Risotto unites creamy rice, juicy chicken, and salty bacon with the tang of cheddar for a dish that delivers comfort and big flavor. With smart tools to help along the way, making gourmet risotto at home has never been easier—or more rewarding. Serve straight from the pot for a warm, crowd-pleasing dinner that nobody will forget!