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One pot chicken risoni topped with crispy salami slices in a rustic pan

Easy One Pot Chicken Risoni with Crispy Salami | Quick Dinner Recipe

Discover this easy one pot chicken risoni recipe with crispy salami. A quick, flavorful dinner idea combining tender chicken, golden risoni pasta, and crunchy salami. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course, One-Pot Meal
Cuisine Comfort Food, Italian-inspired, Mediterranean-inspired
Servings 4
Calories 520 kcal

Equipment

  • Large skillet or deep sauté pan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 2 chicken breasts (or 4 chicken thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 chicken breasts (or 4 chicken thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 100 g salami, sliced into thin rounds

Aromatics

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

Liquid Base

  • 2 ½ cups chicken broth

Vegetables

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup fresh spinach

Seasonings

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions
 

Step 1: Crisp the Salami

  • Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the salami slices and cook for about 2–3 minutes per side until crispy. Transfer the cooked salami to a plate and set aside, leaving the flavorful oil in the pan.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

  • Add olive oil to the pan if needed. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika, then cook in the skillet for about 4–5 minutes until lightly golden.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

  • Add the chopped onion to the pan and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Toast the Risoni

  • Add the risoni to the pan and stir it with the chicken and aromatics for about one minute. Toasting the pasta slightly enhances its flavor.

Step 5: Simmer the Pasta

  • Pour in the chicken broth and stir well. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the risoni is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Step 6: Add Vegetables

  • Stir in the cherry tomatoes and spinach. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until the spinach wilts.

Step 7: Finish the Dish

  • Add the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until the sauce becomes creamy.

Step 8: Add Crispy Salami and Serve

  • Return the crispy salami to the pan or sprinkle it over the top before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs or extra Parmesan if desired.

Notes

Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness. They stay tender and flavorful during cooking.
Don’t skip crisping the salami. It adds a delicious crunchy texture and deep savory flavor.
Adjust the liquid if needed. If the risoni absorbs too much broth before becoming tender, add a splash of warm broth or water.
Add vegetables for extra nutrition. Zucchini, mushrooms, or peas work well in this recipe.
Make it creamy. Stir in a splash of cream or a small knob of butter at the end for a richer finish.
Leftovers tip: Risoni absorbs liquid as it sits, so add a little broth when reheating to restore its creamy texture.
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