Cacio E Pepe Pasta With Chicken

Recipe Directions

1. For best results, take the chicken out of the refrigerator 10 minutes before starting to cook. If you skip this step, you may need to cook the chicken longer than this recipe card indicates. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees fahrenheit.
2. Heat a skillet or saute pan over medium-high heat for 2 minutes. When the pan has warmed up, add 1 tbsp of oil or enough to coat the bottom of the pan. Pour the ditalini pasta (a) into the pan. Toast the pasta for 30 seconds, stirring constantly. Then remove the pan from the heat and add the chicken stock (b). Put the pan back over medium-high heat and bring up to a simmer. Once simmering, turn the heat down to medium-low to keep it at a low simmer. Simmer for 9-12 minutes.
3. While the pasta is simmering, cut open the package of chicken breast (c) and place on a plate. Season on both sides with a pinch of salt and pepper. Heat a skillet or saute pan over medium-high heat for 2 minutes. When the pan has warmed up, add 1 tbsp of oil or enough to coat the bottom of the pan. Place the chicken in the pan and sear for 2 minutes, then flip the chicken breast over and sear the other side for 2 minutes. (If you are preparing 4+ servings, sear both sides for 3 minutes).
4. While cooking the chicken, periodically check on the pasta. If it looks dry, add a few tbsp of water to the pan. After searing, place the pan of chicken in your 425 degree oven. Bake for 7-8 minutes.
5. While the chicken is in the oven, add the greens (d) to a mixing bowl but do not add the dressing yet.
6. When the pasta has finished simmering, taste one piece. If it is cooked to your desired consistency and about 80% of the stock is absorbed, remove from the heat. Add the black pepper butter, cheese and truffle oil mixture (e) to the pasta. Gently stir with a wooden spoon to coat all of the pasta with the butter and cheese.
7. Drizzle the fig & walnut vinaigrette (f) over the greens and toss lightly with tongs to incorporate. Taste and add salt and pepper if you wish.
8. When the chicken has finished baking, remove from the oven and place on a cutting board to rest.
9. Spoon the cacio e pepe pasta on to your serving plates. Slice the chicken and place on top of the pasta. Serve the salad on the side.