CHICKEN WITH PECORINO CREAM SAUCE
Pecorino Romano is well known for its distinctive Tuscan cheese made from 100% sheep’s milk. It is sometimes used interchangeably in recipes with the more mild Parmesan. However, due to Pecorino’s stronger flavor profile, this isn’t really an ideal swap.
Servings
6
Prep time:
10min
Cook time:
20-25 minutes
Ingredients
2 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken breasts
3 T. extra virgin olive oil
4-5 large cloves garlic, smashed
¾ c. half and half
1 c. chicken broth, preferably organic
2 t. dried oregano
1/3 c. Pecorino Romano cheese, freshly grated
1/3 c. Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
½ c. sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1½ c. baby spinach
Sea salt and black pepper, to taste
Tip: Here, the stronger flavor of Pecorino Romano is balanced with an equal amount of Parmesan to create a flavorful cream sauce that isn’t overwhelming. Of course, the ratio of Pecorino to Parmesan can be easily adjusted up or down to suit individual tastes.
Step by Step Instructions
- Â Place chicken breasts between two layers of plastic wrap and pound with a meat mallet or rolling pin to a uniform thickness. Discard plastic and transfer chicken to a clean work surface. Cut into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
- Heat olive oil and garlic in a large high-sided skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté garlic for several minutes until golden brown. Remove garlic with a slotted spatula and discard.
- Add chicken to hot skillet and cook until golden brown on each side, approximately 3-4 minutes per side. Season with salt and black pepper, to taste. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- Add half & half and chicken broth and scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan with a spatula. Add oregano and grated cheese to skillet and whisk until cheese is completely melted approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Reduce heat to just below medium and add the sun-dried tomatoes and baby spinach. Simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until tomatoes are softened and the spinach wilts.
- Add chicken and its juices back to skillet and simmer for another 3-5 minutes, or until chicken is heated through. Taste and adjust seasonings, as desired. Remove from heat and serve immediately with a side of Tuscan White Beans. Enjoy!
