Cacio E Pepe Chicken: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe for 5 Recipe

Introduction

Cacio E Pepe Chicken is a delightful twist on the classic Italian pasta dish, combining tender chicken breasts with a rich, creamy sauce flavored with Pecorino Romano cheese and freshly cracked black pepper. This easy recipe creates a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for any night of the week.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
• 2 tablespoons freshly cracked black pepper, plus more for serving
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Season the chicken breasts with salt on both sides.
2. Step 2: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Step 3: Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and sauté for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden and fully cooked through.
4. Step 4: Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and cover it to keep warm.
5. Step 5: Reduce the skillet heat to medium, add butter, and allow it to melt.
6. Step 6: Pour in the heavy cream, then stir in the grated Pecorino Romano cheese and cracked black pepper until the sauce is smooth.
7. Step 7: Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it in the creamy sauce. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors.
8. Step 8: Taste the sauce and add more salt if needed.
9. Step 9: Plate the chicken, spoon extra sauce over the top, and garnish with additional black pepper and chopped parsley.
10. Step 10: Serve warm with your favorite sides and enjoy.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in olive oil, garlic, and black pepper for 30 minutes before cooking.
• Use freshly grated Pecorino Romano cheese to ensure the best texture and taste in the sauce.
• If you prefer a lighter sauce, reduce the heavy cream to ¾ cup and add a splash of chicken broth.

Storage

Store leftover Cacio E Pepe Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent the sauce from separating. Add a splash of cream or broth if the sauce is too thick after reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well with this recipe and can add extra juiciness. Adjust cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked.

Is Pecorino Romano cheese essential for the sauce?

Pecorino Romano is traditional and provides a sharp, salty flavor, but you can substitute with Parmesan if needed. The taste will be milder but still delicious.

Cacio E Pepe Chicken: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe for 5 Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 117 reviews

Cacio E Pepe Chicken is a rich and flavorful Italian-inspired dish featuring tender chicken breasts cooked in a creamy Pecorino Romano cheese and black pepper sauce. This easy-to-make recipe combines simple ingredients for an elegant meal that comes together quickly on the stovetop, perfect for a weeknight dinner or for entertaining guests.

• Author: Emma
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 5 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt, to taste

Sauce

• 1 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
• 2 tablespoons freshly cracked black pepper, plus more for serving
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt evenly to enhance the flavor before cooking.
2. Heat Olive Oil: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil, allowing it to get hot for a perfect sear.
3. Cook Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet and sauté them for about 6-7 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and are fully cooked through (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C).
4. Remove Chicken: Carefully transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and cover it to keep warm while you prepare the sauce.
5. Make the Sauce: Lower the heat to medium, add the butter to the same skillet, and let it melt. Then, pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly to blend with the butter.
6. Add Cheese and Pepper: Gradually stir in the grated Pecorino Romano cheese and freshly cracked black pepper, mixing continuously until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
7. Combine: Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, making sure to coat them thoroughly with the creamy pepper sauce. Allow them to simmer together for 2-3 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.
8. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce and chicken mixture and add additional salt or black pepper if needed to suit your preference.
9. Serve: Transfer the chicken to serving plates, spoon extra sauce over each piece, and garnish generously with more freshly cracked black pepper and chopped fresh parsley.
10. Enjoy: Serve the Cacio E Pepe Chicken warm alongside your favorite sides such as pasta, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad for a complete meal.

Notes

• Use freshly cracked black pepper for the best flavor and aroma.
• Pecorino Romano cheese is preferred for authenticity, but Parmesan can be substituted if necessary.
• Adjust the cream quantity for a thicker or thinner sauce depending on your preference.
• Ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to maintain food safety.
• This recipe pairs well with simple sides like garlic roasted potatoes or sautéed greens.
• For a lighter option, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream, though the sauce won’t be as rich.

Keywords: Cacio E Pepe Chicken, creamy chicken recipe, Italian chicken, Pecorino Romano chicken, black pepper chicken, easy chicken dinner