Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that combines tender chicken, tangy pepperoncini peppers, and a rich, creamy sauce. The bold, zesty flavor of the pepperoncini peppers pairs perfectly with the savory chicken and creamy sauce, making it a delicious one-pan meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a comforting, flavorful meal with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The combination of creamy sauce and the bold tang of pepperoncini peppers makes this dish absolutely irresistible. The chicken becomes incredibly tender and juicy, while the sauce is rich and flavorful, with just the right amount of kick from the peppers. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s quick, easy, and versatile—serve it over pasta, rice, or even with mashed potatoes for a complete meal. It’s the perfect mix of savory, tangy, and creamy in every bite!

Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup pepperoncini peppers, sliced (with some juice)
2 tablespoons butter
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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

Directions

Prepare the Chicken:
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
Make the Creamy Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the butter and melt it over medium heat.
- Add the sliced pepperoncini peppers (along with a tablespoon or two of their juice) to the skillet, and sauté for about 1-2 minutes to release their flavor.
- Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to deglaze the pan. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet for added flavor.
- Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, and bring the sauce to a simmer. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly.
Combine the Chicken and Sauce:
- Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon some of the sauce over the chicken.
- Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. The chicken will absorb some of the sauce, making it tender and flavorful.
Serve:
- Once the chicken is fully coated with the creamy pepperoncini sauce, remove from heat. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve hot with your favorite side dish, such as pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 4 servings and takes about 25-30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and easy meal that comes together in no time!

Variations

Add Veggies: For added nutrition and flavor, you can throw in some spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers into the skillet while making the sauce.
Spicy Kick: If you like more heat, add extra pepperoncini juice or chopped jalapeños to the sauce.
Cheese Lovers: Add more cheese to the sauce or top the chicken with shredded mozzarella for a cheesy finish.
Use Thighs: Replace the chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier, more tender option.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover creamy pepperoncini chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the chicken in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave individual servings, but the sauce may thicken, so stir in a little extra liquid if needed.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of chicken?

Yes, you can use chicken thighs, drumsticks, or even bone-in chicken pieces. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the cut of chicken you use.

What if I don’t have pepperoncini peppers?

If you don’t have pepperoncini peppers, you can substitute with banana peppers, jalapeños, or even use pickled green chilies for a similar tangy flavor.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, store them in the fridge, and then reheat when you’re ready to serve. However, the chicken may absorb more of the sauce as it sits, so you may need to add a splash of cream or broth when reheating.

Can I make this dish spicier?

Yes, if you like more heat, increase the amount of pepperoncini peppers or add a bit of hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Can I freeze this dish?

You can freeze the chicken and sauce together in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When ready to reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and then warm gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Conclusion

Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings bold flavors to your table in under 30 minutes. The combination of juicy chicken, tangy pepperoncini peppers, and a rich, creamy sauce makes this a meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or a cozy dinner, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings for something hearty and full of flavor!