Get ready to transform your wing game with a mouthwatering Italian twist that will make your taste buds dance! 🧀🔥 Imagine taking the classic Roman pasta favorite, Cacio e Pepe, and turning it into the most irresistible chicken wings you've ever experienced. These Cacio e Pepe Wings are not just another appetizer - they're a culinary revolution that combines crispy, perfectly baked chicken with the bold, sharp flavors of Pecorino Romano cheese and freshly cracked black pepper. Whether you're hosting a game night, looking for a show-stopping party snack, or simply craving something extraordinary, these wings will elevate your cooking game and leave your guests begging for the recipe!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken wings
- 1/2 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- 1 tablespoon freshly cracked black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help achieve crispy wings.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken wings with olive oil. Toss the wings until they are evenly coated.
- Season the wings generously with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Make sure to distribute the seasoning evenly over all the wings.
- Spread the seasoned wings in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Bake the wings in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes, turning them halfway through to ensure they cook evenly and get crispy on all sides.
- While the wings are baking, prepare the Cacio e Pepe sauce. In a small bowl, combine the grated Pecorino Romano cheese and additional black pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Once the wings are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, add the hot wings and sprinkle the Pecorino Romano cheese and black pepper mixture over them. Toss the wings well to ensure they are fully coated in the cheese and pepper.
- Serve the Cacio e Pepe Wings immediately, garnished with extra Pecorino Romano cheese and a sprinkle of black pepper if desired.
- Enjoy your delicious Italian-inspired Cacio e Pepe Wings with your favorite dipping sauce or on their own!
Tips
- Use high-quality Pecorino Romano cheese for the most authentic and rich flavor. Pre-grated cheese won't melt as beautifully as freshly grated.
- For extra crispy wings, pat the chicken dry with paper towels before adding olive oil and seasoning. Moisture can prevent the wings from getting that perfect crisp.
- Don't skip turning the wings halfway through baking - this ensures even cooking and helps achieve that golden, crispy exterior on all sides.
- Let the wings rest for a couple of minutes after baking before tossing them in the cheese mixture. This helps the cheese adhere better and prevents immediate cooling.
- If you want an extra punch of flavor, consider adding a tiny pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture for a subtle heat.
- Serve immediately after coating with cheese to enjoy the wings at their absolute best - crispy, hot, and covered in that delicious Pecorino Romano coating.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 32g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 125mg
