Lifestyle

Southern-fried chicken thighs and baked green risotto

The leeks and thyme infuse the risotto with a delicate, aromatic base, while the chicken stock brings out the creaminess of the arborio rice.

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes rival the creamy satisfaction of a well-made risotto. But let’s face it – traditional risotto requires constant stirring, and some days you just don’t have the time or patience. Enter this baked version: a hands-off, oven-friendly twist that delivers all the creamy goodness without the fuss. Paired with crispy, Southern-fried chicken thighs and vibrant green kale, this dish by Astral Chicken, is perfect for a family dinner or a small gathering.

 

Ingredients

  • 1 Tbsp (15ml) oil
  • 2 leeks, sliced
  • 1 sprig thyme
  • 1 ½ cups (300g) arborio rice
  • 4 ½ cups (1,25l) chicken stock
  • 4 cups (120g) kale, shredded
  • 6 pieces Southern fried chicken thighs
  • To serve: ½ cup (40g) parmesan cheese and a handful of basil or parsley

Method

  1. Preheat the oven to 180°C.
  2. Heat a deep, ovenproof pan over medium heat. Add the oil and cook the leeks and thyme for about 5 minutes, or until softened.
  3. Season with salt, then add rice and stock and stir to combine. Cover and bake for 30 minutes.
  4. After 30 minutes, uncover and add chicken atop the risotto, and bake for a further 15 minutes uncovered.
  5. Add the shredded kale for the last 10 minutes of cooking.
  6. Serve immediately with parmesan and fresh basil or parsley.
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I'm an experienced writer, sub-editor, and media & public relations specialist with a demonstrated history of working in the media industry – across digital, print, TV, and radio. I earned a diploma in Journalism and Print Media from leading institution, Damelin College, with distinctions (Journalism And Print Media, Media Studies, Technical English And Communications, South African Studies, African & International Studies, Technology in Journalism, Journalism II & Practical Journalism). I also hold a qualification in Investigative Journalism from Print Media SA, First Aid Training from St John’s Ambulance, as well as certificates in Learning to Write Marketing Copy, Planning a Career in User Experience, and Writing a Compelling Blog Post.

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