Pressure Cooker Risotto with Chicken, Spinach & Parmesan

If you’ve ever avoided risotto because of all that endless stirring, this Pressure Cooker Risotto with chicken, spinach, and Parmesan will change your mind. Creamy, flavorful, and ready in under 30 minutes—it feels like a cozy Italian dinner with zero fuss. I often make this on busy weeknights, and my family loves the silky rice with tender bites of chicken. Using the pressure cooker recipes method takes away the stress, and dinner is on the table before anyone gets hangry. If you’re like me and also enjoy quick comfort foods, you’ll want to try my garlic butter shrimp pasta too—it’s another weeknight hero.

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What You’ll Need

Making risotto doesn’t need a long list of ingredients—just a few pantry staples and fresh touches make it shine. Here’s what I use:

• Chicken thighs (boneless, skinless) – juicier than chicken breast and perfect in risotto.
• Arborio rice – short-grain rice that makes risotto creamy.
• Chicken stock – homemade or store-bought, but go for low sodium.
• Fresh spinach – stirred in at the end for color and nutrients.
• Parmesan cheese – freshly grated, because the pre-shredded just doesn’t melt the same.
• Onion & garlic – the flavor base that brings everything together.
• Olive oil & butter – I like the mix; oil prevents burning, butter adds flavor.
• Seasonings – salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if you’re feeling fancy.

Tip: A wooden spoon and a ladle are your best friends here. I’ve also learned to always keep grated Parmesan on hand—it transforms simple meals. For another comforting one-pot dish, my instant pot chili is a must-try.

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Step-by-Step Guide to Pressure Cooker Risotto with Chicken, Spinach, and Parmesan

I promise this process is much easier than stovetop risotto—no constant stirring, just delicious results.

Step 1 — Sauté the chicken

Set your pressure cooker to sauté mode. Heat olive oil and brown the chicken pieces for a few minutes. This seals in flavor. I always season lightly at this stage—it makes a big difference.

Step 2 — Add aromatics

Toss in chopped onion and garlic. Cook until fragrant. The smell here always reminds me of my grandmother’s kitchen—simple flavors layering beautifully.

Step 3 — Toast the rice

Add Arborio rice and stir for a minute until it looks glossy. Don’t skip this step—it helps the rice soak up flavor and prevents it from becoming mushy.

Step 4 — Pour in stock

Deglaze with a splash of stock, scraping up the tasty browned bits. Then add the rest of the stock. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 5 — Pressure cook

Lock the lid, set your pressure cooker to high for 6 minutes. It feels almost too quick, but trust me—the rice comes out perfectly tender.

Step 6 — Finish with spinach and Parmesan

Release the pressure carefully, then stir in butter, Parmesan, and spinach. I love how the spinach wilts instantly into the hot risotto. Taste and adjust seasoning.

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Pro Tips & Easy Swaps

• Use chicken breast if you prefer leaner meat—just don’t overcook it.
• Add mushrooms in Step 2 for a deeper, earthy flavor.
• White wine instead of some stock adds a restaurant-style touch.
• If you like creamier risotto, stir in a splash of cream at the end.
• Always grate Parmesan fresh—it melts better and tastes richer.
• Leftovers reheat beautifully with a splash of stock or milk.
• Try swapping spinach with kale for a hearty variation.
• Vegetarian? Skip the chicken and use veggie stock.

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Serving Ideas & Variations

I usually serve this risotto with a crisp green salad or roasted veggies—it balances the creaminess. You can also:

• Add peas for sweetness.
• Stir in crispy bacon or pancetta.
• Top with grilled shrimp for a surf-and-turf vibe.
• Sprinkle chili flakes for a spicy kick.
• Serve alongside garlic bread (my kids insist on this!).
• Use pecorino instead of Parmesan for sharper flavor.

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Common Mistakes (and How to Fix Them)

• Rice too mushy? Reduce cooking time by a minute next time.
• Risotto too dry? Stir in more hot stock before serving.
• Chicken bland? Season it well during the browning step.
• Cheese clumpy? Always add it off heat and stir quickly.

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Frequently Asked Questions

You’ll Also Love

• Pressure Cooker Beef Stew – hearty and cozy, just like grandma’s.
• Pressure Cooker Chili – bold flavors, minimal effort.
• Pressure Cooker Pulled Pork – perfect for sandwiches or tacos.

If you’re loving these easy meals, check out more pressure cooker recipes for stress-free cooking inspiration.