Name: Cacio E Pepe Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1 ½ teaspoons freshly ground black pepper; ⅔ cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese; ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese; ¾ cup heavy cream; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Hey y'all! If you love Italian comfort food and crave an easy but gourmet twist for dinner, you’re in the right place. This Cacio E Pepe Chicken takes the classic Roman flavors of cheese and black pepper and pairs them with juicy, golden-crusted Chicken breasts. It's creamy, peppery, and honestly perfect for both cozy weeknights or an elevated weekend meal with friends. Hungry yet? Let’s get cooking!

Why You'll Love This

The recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
It's a one-pan dish, so you’ll have fewer dishes to wash up afterward.
The creamy, cheesy sauce is loaded with bold pepper flavor for a comforting yet zesty bite.
You only need simple, easy-to-find ingredients to prepare this meal.
It’s elegant enough for guests, but also totally kid-friendly!

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1½ teaspoons freshly ground black pepper (plus extra for garnish)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
¾ cup heavy cream
1 cup finely grated Pecorino Romano cheese (plus extra for serving)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon lemon zest
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides evenly with 1 teaspoon kosher salt and 1½ teaspoons freshly ground black pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts. Sear for 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the same skillet. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer, stirring to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Whisk in the Pecorino Romano and Parmesan cheeses, and continue to stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy—about 2 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Return the cooked chicken breasts and resting juices to the skillet. Spoon sauce over each piece, sprinkle with lemon zest, and let simmer for 2 minutes to meld flavors.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Top with extra freshly ground black pepper, a handful of Pecorino Romano, and chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot, and enjoy!

Notes

For extra flavor, use freshly cracked black pepper instead of pre-ground pepper.
If your sauce becomes too thick, thin it with a splash of chicken broth or milk.
Try pounding the chicken breasts to even thickness for more uniform cooking.

Variations

Cacio E Pepe Chicken Thighs: Substitute chicken thighs for a richer, juicier result.
Low-Carb Variation: Swap heavy cream for coconut cream and omit the flour if you're dusting the chicken.
Add Veggies: Sauté sliced mushrooms or spinach with the garlic for a boost of flavor and color.

Required Equipment

Large skillet (preferably non-stick or stainless steel)
Tongs or spatula
Whisk
Instant-read thermometer (optional, but recommended)

Storage Instructions

Store leftover Cacio E Pepe Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream if the sauce has thickened. Freeze chicken and sauce separately for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Suggested Pairings & Serving Recommendations

Serve with al dente pasta, creamy polenta, or crusty Italian bread for soaking up the sauce.
Pair with a crisp Caesar salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Enjoy with a glass of dry white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.

Pro Tips

Use high-quality Pecorino Romano for authentic, sharp flavor.
Don’t rush the searing step—golden crust equals more flavor!
Add cheese off the heat for a silky, non-grainy sauce.

FAQ

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

For the creamiest sauce, freshly grated cheese melts better and avoids a grainy texture, but pre-shredded can be used in a pinch.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! As written, Cacio E Pepe Chicken is naturally gluten-free, but always check your cheese and seasoning labels for hidden gluten.

Can I make this ahead?

Absolutely! Prep the sauce and chicken in advance, then gently reheat together just before serving for best results.