Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich & Creamy – A luscious sauce with the perfect hint of spice.
• One-Pan Meal – Easy cleanup and ready in under 30 minutes.
• Perfectly Balanced Flavors – Tangy pepperoncini and creamy sauce create a unique taste.
• Versatile & Customizable – Pairs well with pasta, rice, or veggies.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Salt & black pepper
• Garlic powder
• Olive oil or butter
• Onion, diced
• Garlic, minced
• Pepperoncini peppers, sliced
• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese (grated)
• Italian seasoning
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for extra spice)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

Cook the Chicken:

1. Season the Chicken – Sprinkle chicken with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Sear the Chicken – Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

Make the Creamy Pepperoncini Sauce:

1. Sauté Aromatics – In the same skillet, sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.
2. Add Pepperoncini & Broth – Stir in sliced pepperoncini and chicken broth, simmering for 2-3 minutes.
3. Make it Creamy – Lower heat and add heavy cream, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning. Stir until smooth.

Finish & Serve:

1. Return Chicken to Skillet – Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 5 minutes until fully cooked.
2. Garnish & Serve – Sprinkle with fresh parsley and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve over pasta, rice, or with roasted veggies.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Low-Carb Version – Serve with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
• Cheesy Twist – Add extra Parmesan or mozzarella for a richer sauce.
• Spicy Version – Use extra red pepper flakes or add chopped jalapeños.
• Mushroom & Spinach Addition – Stir in sautéed mushrooms and spinach for extra veggies.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerate – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze – Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat – Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs add extra juiciness and flavor.

What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs well with pasta, mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Let it simmer a bit longer, or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch + 2 tsp water).

Can I use jarred pepperoncini juice for extra flavor?

Yes! Add a splash of the brine to enhance the tangy taste.

How spicy is this dish?

Pepperoncini peppers are mild, but you can adjust the spice level with red pepper flakes.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Cook on low for 4-6 hours, then stir in the cream and Parmesan before serving.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce won’t be as rich. A mix of milk and butter can help.

What’s the best way to slice pepperoncini?

Use kitchen scissors or a sharp knife, and remove seeds if you prefer a milder taste.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Just use a larger skillet and adjust the cooking time as needed.

Conclusion

Creamy pepperoncini chicken skillet is an easy, flavorful dish that brings together rich creaminess and tangy spice in one perfect bite. Whether served over pasta, rice, or veggies, this dish is a guaranteed hit for any meal. Try it today and enjoy a restaurant-quality dinner at home!

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