Description
Cacio E Pepe Chicken is a creamy, flavorful Italian-inspired dish featuring tender chicken breasts coated in a rich sauce made from Pecorino Romano cheese, black pepper, heavy cream, and chicken broth. This recipe combines simple ingredients with straightforward cooking techniques to deliver an elegant meal perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Sauce
- 1 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- 1 tablespoon freshly cracked black pepper
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts generously with salt on both sides to enhance flavor before cooking.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering and ready for cooking.
- Cook the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the hot skillet and cook for approximately 5-7 minutes on each side until they develop a golden brown crust and are cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside on a plate.
- Make the Sauce: Using the same skillet, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Scrape any flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pan to incorporate into the sauce.
- Add Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and allow the mixture to simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly, creating a creamy base.
- Incorporate Cheese and Pepper: Gradually whisk in the grated Pecorino Romano cheese along with the freshly cracked black pepper, stirring continuously until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Return Chicken to Skillet: Place the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet, turning them to coat completely in the rich sauce.
- Finish Cooking: Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes to fully absorb the flavors and ensure warmth throughout.
- Garnish: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top to add a fresh, vibrant touch to the dish.
- Serve Hot: Transfer the chicken with sauce to a serving platter and serve immediately while hot and delicious.
Notes
- Use freshly cracked black pepper for the best flavor punch in the sauce.
- For a lower fat option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half but expect a less creamy texture.
- Ensure the skillet is adequately hot to achieve a good sear on the chicken without overcooking the interior.
- Grate the Pecorino Romano cheese fresh for optimal melt and flavor in the sauce.
- This dish pairs beautifully with pasta, steamed vegetables, or a simple green salad.
