Cacio E Pepe Chicken
Cacio E Pepe Chicken is a delightful twist on the classic Roman dish, transforming the simple, bold flavors of cacio e pepe into something even more special. I stumbled upon this recipe during a busy weeknight when I craved comfort food that didn’t require hours in the kitchen. With creamy textures and the irresistible taste of Pecorino Romano cheese blended with freshly cracked black pepper, this dish quickly became a favorite in our household. It’s perfect for family dinners, impressing guests, or just treating yourself after a long day.
What Makes This Recipe Special
Why cook this dish at home? For one, it encapsulates the essence of Italian comfort food while being surprisingly straightforward. Not only is it budget-friendly, but it’s also kid-approved and can be whipped up in under 30 minutes! Ideal for weeknight dinners or date nights, Cacio E Pepe Chicken allows you to serve up something that feels indulgent without the restaurant prices.
“This recipe is a game changer! The creaminess mixed with the kick of black pepper makes for a restaurant-quality meal at home.”
Preparing Cacio E Pepe Chicken: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe for 5
Making Cacio E Pepe Chicken is a breeze. You’ll sauté the chicken, whip up a creamy sauce with Pecorino Romano cheese, and combine everything for an unforgettable meal – all in a single skillet! Get ready to enjoy a dish that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious.
What You’ll Need
- 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)
Feel free to substitute chicken thighs for added juiciness or use a different cheese like Parmigiano if you’re in a pinch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Begin by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with salt.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken breasts and sauté for about 6-7 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and fully cooked. Once done, transfer them to a plate and cover to keep warm.
- In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the butter. Allow it to melt.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the grated Pecorino Romano cheese and cracked black pepper, mixing until smooth.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, ensuring each piece is coated in the creamy sauce. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes to meld all the flavors together.
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with additional salt if necessary.
- Plate the chicken and spoon extra sauce over the top. Garnish with more black pepper and freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve your Cacio E Pepe Chicken warm alongside your favorite sides.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Cacio E Pepe Chicken is best served warm, ideally with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables on the side. Garlic bread makes for a delightful accompaniment, allowing you to soak up every last drop of that luscious creamy sauce. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside pasta tossed in olive oil, garlic, and more Pecorino Romano.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
To store any leftovers, allow the chicken to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
When it’s time to reheat, do so gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream if the sauce has thickened too much. Always ensure food is reheated to a minimum internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Make sure to crack your black pepper fresh for maximum flavor.
- For a richer taste, let the sauce simmer slightly longer—just don’t let it boil.
- If you’re looking to streamline the process, prepare your ingredients ahead of time and measure them out.
Creative Twists
Looking to put a spin on this recipe? Try adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the creamy sauce for extra flavor and nutrients. For a spicy kick, toss in some red pepper flakes. You can even swap out the chicken for shrimp for a seafood version – simply adjust the cooking time accordingly.
FAQs
How long does it take to prepare Cacio E Pepe Chicken?
This dish can be ready in under 30 minutes, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, while Pecorino Romano is traditional, you can use Parmigiano Reggiano or a combination of cheeses to suit your taste.
How do I keep the chicken from drying out?
Ensure you don’t overcook the chicken. Keeping it covered once cooked helps retain moisture.
With Cacio E Pepe Chicken on your menu, you’re in for a treat! Happy cooking and enjoy every bite of this creamy, cheesy delight!
Cacio E Pepe Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts Consider substituting with chicken thighs for added juiciness.
- 1 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese You can also use Parmigiano if preferred.
- 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
Preparation
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken breasts and sauté for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked. Transfer to a plate and cover to keep warm.
Sauce Preparation
- In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the butter until it melts.
- Pour in the heavy cream, stir in the grated Pecorino Romano cheese and cracked black pepper, mixing until smooth.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, ensuring each piece is coated in the creamy sauce. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes to meld flavors.
- Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with additional salt if necessary.
Serving
- Plate the chicken and spoon extra sauce over the top. Garnish with more black pepper and chopped parsley.
- Serve warm alongside your favorite sides.
