If you love dishes that combine tangy, creamy, and savory flavors in one skillet, you are in for a treat with this Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet Recipe. This dish perfectly balances tender chicken breasts with the zesty brightness of pepperoncini peppers, all bathed in a luscious Parmesan-infused cream sauce. Not only is this recipe a breeze to make for a weeknight dinner, but its vibrant flavors and comforting texture will quickly make it a household favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that each play a vital role in building flavor and texture. From the succulent chicken breasts to the tangy kick of pepperoncini and the richness of Parmesan and cream, every component works together to create magic in your skillet.
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star protein that stays juicy and tender when cooked perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a fruity aroma and ensures a nice sear without sticking.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Provides richness and a silky finish to the sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the chicken and seasoning.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds mild heat and depth to the seasoning blend.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings warm, savory notes without overpowering the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Adds subtle sweetness and balances the palate.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Offers a touch of earthy herbiness that pairs beautifully with chicken.
- 1/4 cup chicken broth: Helps deglaze the pan and builds the base for the creamy sauce.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Creates the silky, luscious texture essential for the sauce.
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoncini peppers (plus 2 tablespoons juice): Imparts a distinctive tangy zing critical for that signature flavor.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Introduces a sharp, nutty element that enriches the creaminess.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Adds a fresh, herbaceous finish and a pop of color.
How to Make Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts evenly with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried oregano. This simple blend layers the perfect mix of savory and herbal flavors right into the meat, setting you up for a deeply tasty dish.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil and butter together in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add your seasoned chicken breasts and sear them for about 4–5 minutes per side, allowing a beautiful golden crust to form. This step locks in the juices while adding those irresistible caramelized notes.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce Base
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside for just a moment. Reduce the heat to medium and pour in the chicken broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape up all the flavorful browned bits stuck to the pan. These bits pack serious umami power and will elevate your sauce to the next level.
Step 4: Make it Creamy and Tangy
Now stir in the heavy cream, sliced pepperoncini peppers, pepperoncini juice, and grated Parmesan cheese. Let this luscious mixture simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until it thickens slightly, turning into a sauce that’s rich, tangy, and downright addictive.
Step 5: Finish Cooking the Chicken in the Sauce
Return the seared chicken to the skillet, nestling it gently into the creamy pepperoncini sauce. Let it simmer for another 5–7 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and has soaked up the sauce’s marvelous flavors. Sprinkle with fresh parsley just before serving to add a delightful herbal touch and cheerful color.
How to Serve Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley not only brightens the appearance but also adds a fresh, slightly peppery note that complements the creamy sauce. For an extra pop, you can also shave a bit more Parmesan on top, giving each bite wonderful cheesy bursts.
Side Dishes
This skillet chicken pairs beautifully with mashed cauliflower for a low-carb option that keeps things light. Alternatively, fluffy rice or your favorite pasta works perfectly to soak up every drop of that irresistible sauce. Roasted or steamed green vegetables, like asparagus or broccoli, add a fresh balance to this indulgent main course.
Creative Ways to Present
Try plating the creamy pepperoncini chicken over a bed of garlic butter noodles or even alongside creamy polenta for comforting variation. For an elegant twist, serve it in a shallow bowl with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a wedge of lemon on the side to brighten the tangy elements.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet Recipe to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making it an amazing leftover meal that reheats beautifully.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well, especially if you’re planning to make it a part of your meal prep. Separate portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, and keep them for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, and the flavors will remain intact.
Reheating
Reheat leftover chicken gently in a skillet over low-medium heat to avoid drying out the chicken. Adding a splash of chicken broth or cream can help loosen the sauce and restore its creamy texture. Microwaving is convenient but may cause the sauce to thicken unevenly—stirring halfway through helps.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe, bringing a bit more richness and flavor due to their higher fat content. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they are fully cooked and tender.
How spicy is this Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet Recipe?
The pepperoncini peppers add a mild tangy heat that’s more on the zesty side than fiery. If you enjoy a bit more kick, feel free to add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat or gluten ingredients, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I substitute heavy cream with something lighter?
Heavy cream is key to the sauce’s luxurious texture, but for a lighter option, you can try half-and-half mixed with a small amount of flour to thicken. The flavor will be slightly less rich but still delicious.
What can I serve this with if I’m on a low-carb diet?
Mashed cauliflower, spiralized zucchini noodles, or a crisp green salad make excellent low-carb sides to balance the creamy and tangy chicken skillet.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet Recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a wonderfully comforting and flavorful meal. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something quick yet impressive. I encourage you to try making this dish and watch it become an instant classic in your dinner rotation!
Print
Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet is a delicious and easy-to-make main course featuring juicy chicken breasts simmered in a rich, tangy cream sauce enhanced with pepperoncini peppers and Parmesan. This flavorful stovetop recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner and pairs wonderfully with mashed cauliflower, rice, or pasta.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Cooking Fat
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
Sauce
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoncini peppers
- 2 tablespoons pepperoncini juice
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides evenly with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried oregano to build a flavorful base.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil and butter together in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 4 to 5 minutes on each side until golden brown and nearly cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: Reduce heat to medium. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet bottom for added flavor. Stir in the heavy cream, sliced pepperoncini peppers, pepperoncini juice, and grated Parmesan. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Simmer the Chicken in Sauce: Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy sauce. Continue to simmer for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the sauce reaches a creamy consistency.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the chicken and sauce just before serving. This dish pairs beautifully with mashed cauliflower, rice, or pasta.
Notes
- Serve over mashed cauliflower, rice, or pasta to soak up the creamy sauce.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- The recipe is flexible and works well with chicken thighs as an alternative to breasts.
