Grilled Cacio e Pepe Chicken Wings
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Crispy grilled chicken wings tossed in a rich Pecorino Romano and black pepper butter—an Italian-inspired twist on a barbecue classic.
- Author: Beth
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 16 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Low Lactose
- 1 kg chicken wings, split at joints, tips removed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper (plus more for garnish)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 cup finely grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Pat chicken wings dry and toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Grill wings for about 6–8 minutes per side until golden, crisp, and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C).
- Meanwhile, mix melted butter, Pecorino Romano, lemon zest, and a pinch of pepper in a large bowl.
- Transfer hot grilled wings to the bowl and toss to coat evenly in the cheese mixture.
- Arrange on a platter, garnish with parsley and extra cracked black pepper if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy immediately.
Notes
- To enhance crispness, cook wings over indirect heat for the first 10 minutes, then finish over direct heat.
- Use Parmesan if Pecorino is unavailable, though flavor will be milder.
- Add chili flakes or smoked paprika for a spicy version.
- Can be oven-baked at 400°F (200°C) for about 40 minutes if preferred.
- Pairs well with a side of aioli or lemon wedges.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 4 wings)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 140mg