Description
Cacio E Pepe Chicken is an incredible dish that brings the classic Italian flavors of Cacio e Pepe to a delightful chicken meal. This combination of creamy cheese and cracked black pepper creates a flavor profile that is both simple and sophisticated. Tender chicken is coated in a rich, cheese-laden sauce that’s an absolute flavor bomb, bringing comforting warmth and aromatic spices to your table. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or hosting gatherings, offering an amazing balance of flavors that will impress.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup Pecorino Romano cheese, grated
- 1 tablespoon black pepper, coarsely cracked
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and half of the cracked black pepper.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and allow it to heat up.
- Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts to the pan. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and the remaining black pepper. Sauté for about 1 minute, allowing the garlic to fragrant without burning.
- Slowly incorporate the grated Pecorino Romano cheese, stirring constantly. If the cheese is too thick, add a tablespoon of reserved pasta water (if using) or chicken broth to create a creamy sauce.
- Place the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet, coating them in the cheesy sauce.
- Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for a couple of minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Sprinkle chopped parsley over the chicken before serving for a fresh touch.
Notes
- Use fresh chicken and high-quality cheese for the best flavor.
- Adjust black pepper to your taste preference.
- Consider serving with a simple side of garlic bread or a light salad.
- Parmigiano-Reggiano can be used as a substitute for Pecorino Romano.
- For a creamier sauce, add a splash of heavy cream.
- You can substitute chicken with turkey or pork.
- Add sautéed spinach or asparagus for extra nutrition and flavor.
- A pinch of red pepper flakes can be added for a spicy kick.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Seared
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Sugar: N/A
- Sodium: N/A
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: N/A
- Unsaturated Fat: N/A
- Trans Fat: N/A
- Carbohydrates: N/A
- Fiber: N/A
- Protein: 50g
- Cholesterol: N/A