Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet Recipe
This Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet is the weeknight dinner you’ll want to make again and again. Imagine tender, golden-seared chicken breasts nestled in a silky, tangy cream sauce, brightened by pepperoncini peppers and finished with a generous shower of Parmesan and parsley. It all comes together in one pan in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings when you want big flavors without a fuss. Whether you’re feeding your family or treating yourself, this dish is guaranteed to please every palate at the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity—each ingredient works hard to deliver flavor, creaminess, or a pop of color. Gather everything ahead of time and you’ll be rewarded with a Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet that’s as easy as it is irresistible.
- Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless, sliced or pounded thin for quick, even cooking and juicy results.
- Olive oil: Lends a subtle fruitiness and helps achieve that perfect golden sear.
- Butter: Adds richness and depth to both the chicken and the sauce.
- Garlic: Freshly minced for aromatic warmth that infuses the entire skillet.
- Chicken broth: Deglazes the pan and forms the base of that luscious sauce.
- Heavy cream: The key to the creamy, dreamy texture of the sauce.
- Pepperoncini peppers: Sliced for a mild, tangy bite that keeps the dish lively.
- Pepperoncini brine: Just a splash adds an extra zing and brightens the sauce.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a gentle kick of heat.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and balance.
- Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated for a nutty, salty finish that melts right in.
- Fresh parsley: Chopped and sprinkled over the top for a burst of color and freshness.
How to Make Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet
Step 1: Season and Prep the Chicken
Start by patting your chicken breasts dry, then season them liberally with salt and black pepper on both sides. This quick step ensures every bite is flavorful, and prepping the meat in advance helps it cook evenly. If your chicken breasts are particularly thick, slice them in half horizontally or give them a gentle pounding—this helps them cook faster and stay nice and tender.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil and butter together in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and foamy, add the chicken breasts in a single layer. Let them sear undisturbed for about 4 to 5 minutes per side, until they’re beautifully golden and cooked through. Set the chicken aside on a plate—it’ll make a grand return to the skillet soon!
Step 3: Build the Flavor Base
In the same skillet (don’t wipe it out—you want those tasty browned bits!), add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. This is where the magic begins, as the garlic releases its aroma and infuses the oil and butter left behind.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and pepperoncini brine, scraping up any delicious bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet. Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the sliced pepperoncini peppers, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Let the sauce bubble gently for 3 to 4 minutes, until it thickens just enough to coat a spoon.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon some of that luscious sauce right over the top. Let everything cook together for another 2 to 3 minutes, just to reheat the chicken and let the flavors marry. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving and marvel at your Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet masterpiece!
How to Serve Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet
Garnishes
A final flourish of chopped fresh parsley isn’t just for looks—it adds a burst of freshness and a pop of vivid green that makes the Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet even more inviting. For extra pizzazz, a few extra slices of pepperoncini on top can hint at the tangy flavors inside.
Side Dishes
This chicken skillet begs to be served over something that will soak up that irresistible sauce. Pile it high on fluffy rice, buttery mashed potatoes, or keep it low-carb with cauliflower mash or sautéed greens. Even a hunk of crusty bread is perfect for swiping every last drop from your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice the chicken and tuck it into toasted sandwich rolls with plenty of sauce for an outrageously good hot sandwich. Or, spoon the creamy pepperoncini chicken mixture over pasta for a comforting, tangy spin on classic Alfredo. However you serve it, this skillet is destined to steal the show.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (lucky you!), transfer the cooled Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic choice for meal prep or easy lunches.
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce together. Let everything cool completely, then place in a freezer-safe container or zip bag. The sauce may separate a bit once thawed, but a good stir while reheating will bring it back to creamy glory.
Reheating
Gently reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave at 50 percent power, stirring occasionally. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up. Avoid boiling, as this can sometimes make the sauce separate.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work beautifully here—they’ll be just as tender and flavorful. Simply adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they’re cooked through.
Is there a dairy-free option for the sauce?
You can swap the heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk or your favorite dairy-free alternative. The sauce will have a slightly different flavor, but the Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet will still be deliciously rich.
How spicy is this dish?
The pepperoncini peppers add tang and mild heat, but the dish isn’t overly spicy. If you’re sensitive to spice, skip the red pepper flakes. For more heat, add a bit more pepperoncini or even a sprinkle of hot sauce.
Can I make the sauce thicker or thinner?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer before adding the chicken back in. For a thinner sauce, add an extra splash of chicken broth or cream until you reach your desired consistency.
What other vegetables can I add to this skillet?
Feel free to toss in baby spinach, halved cherry tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms for extra veggies and flavor. They’ll pair nicely with the creamy, tangy sauce and make your Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet even heartier.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving something bold, creamy, and just a little bit zippy, you owe it to yourself to try Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet. It’s one of those rare dishes that feels special enough for guests but is easy enough for any busy night. Give it a whirl—you might just find yourself adding it to your regular dinner rotation!
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Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet is a flavorful and tangy one-pan meal featuring tender chicken breasts simmered in a rich, creamy sauce infused with pepperoncini peppers and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it pairs beautifully with rice, mashed potatoes, or a low-carb cauliflower mash.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1½ lb boneless skinless chicken breasts (halved horizontally or pounded thin)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Cooking Fats
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
Sauce
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup sliced pepperoncini peppers (plus 2 tablespoons of brine)
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Season Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt and black pepper on both sides to enhance flavor.
- Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 4–5 minutes on each side until it is golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Create Sauce Base: Pour in chicken broth and pepperoncini brine, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release any browned bits. Stir well to combine.
- Add Cream and Seasonings: Stir in the heavy cream, sliced pepperoncini peppers, Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes if desired. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning sauce over each piece. Cook an additional 2–3 minutes to heat the chicken through and let the flavors meld.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top before serving to add freshness and color.
Notes
- This dish pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, or cauliflower mash for a low-carb alternative.
- For added tanginess, increase the amount of pepperoncini brine to taste.
- Substitute Greek yogurt or half-and-half for heavy cream to create a lighter version of the sauce.
- Ensure chicken breasts are evenly pounded or halved for consistent cooking.
- Red pepper flakes are optional and can be adjusted to your spice preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 590 mg
- Fat: 23 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 115 mg
