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Cacio E Pepe Chicken Recipe

Cacio E Pepe Chicken Recipe
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★★★★★

5 from 10 reviews

A rich and flavorful Italian-inspired dish featuring tender chicken breasts coated in a creamy, peppery Pecorino Romano cheese sauce, perfect for an elegant yet simple dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • Salt, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Sauce

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
  • 2 tablespoons freshly cracked black pepper, plus more for serving

Garnish

  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt on both sides to enhance flavor.
  2. Heat Olive Oil: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  3. Cook Chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and sauté for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
  4. Remove Chicken: Transfer the cooked chicken breasts to a plate and cover loosely to keep warm while you prepare the sauce.
  5. Make the Sauce: Reduce the skillet heat to medium and add the butter, allowing it to melt completely. Pour in the heavy cream and stir gently.
  6. Add Cheese and Pepper: Gradually stir in the grated Pecorino Romano cheese and freshly cracked black pepper, mixing continuously until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  7. Combine: Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, coating them thoroughly with the creamy sauce. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes so the flavors meld together.
  8. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce and add additional salt if needed, ensuring the seasoning is balanced.
  9. Serve: Plate the chicken breasts and spoon remaining sauce generously over the top. Garnish with extra cracked black pepper and chopped fresh parsley for color and freshness.
  10. Enjoy: Serve your Cacio E Pepe Chicken warm alongside your favorite sides such as pasta, roasted vegetables, or a light salad.

Notes

  • For best results, use freshly cracked black pepper for a more aromatic flavor.
  • Ensure chicken is cooked through but not overcooked to keep it juicy and tender.
  • Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, though it may be less rich.
  • This dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides like garlic butter pasta or steamed asparagus.
  • You can use Parmesan cheese as an alternative to Pecorino Romano, though the flavor will be less tangy.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cacio e Pepe Chicken, Italian chicken recipe, creamy chicken, Pecorino Romano chicken, easy dinner recipe

Find it online: https://platedbyemma.com/cacio-e-pepe-chicken-recipe/