Name: Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, thinly sliced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup sliced pepperoncini peppers; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

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There is nothing quite as satisfying and bursting with flavor as a Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet. This dish brings together tender, golden-brown chicken breasts smothered in a luxuriously creamy sauce that’s brightened by the tangy kick of pepperoncini peppers. Perfectly balanced and easy to prepare, this Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet is one of those comforting meals that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen. Every bite delivers a delightful combination of savory creaminess and a zesty punch that will keep you coming back for more.

Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple, fresh ingredients are the stars of the show, each playing a vital role in creating the rich texture, vibrant flavors, and irresistible aroma of the Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet.

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The perfect protein base, juicy and tender when seared just right.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps achieve that gorgeous golden crust on the chicken.
1 onion, thinly sliced: Adds sweetness and depth once softened in the skillet.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Packs a punch of aromatic flavor that complements the pepperoncini perfectly.
1 cup sliced pepperoncini peppers: The tangy, mildly spicy stars that liven up the creamy sauce.
1 cup chicken broth: Creates a flavorful base to gently simmer chicken and develop the sauce.
1 cup heavy cream: Provides that indulgent, silky texture that makes this skillet dish unforgettable.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasoning to enhance every ingredient’s natural goodness.
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish: Adds a fresh, vibrant touch and a pop of color at serving.

How to Make Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it glistens. Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then lay them gently in the hot oil. Cook each side until you get a beautiful golden-brown crust, about 5 minutes per side. This step locks in flavor and juices, setting the base for your scrumptious Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate to rest while you build the sauce.

Step 2: Soften Onions and Garlic

In the same skillet, toss in the thinly sliced onions and minced garlic. The sizzling and softening of these aromatics over about 3 minutes creates a delicate sweetness and depth that pairs effortlessly with the tangy pepperoncini. Keep stirring gently until the onions become translucent and fragrant.

Step 3: Add Pepperoncini Peppers

Now, stir in the sliced pepperoncini peppers. Their vibrant, zesty flavor transforms the dish with just a couple of minutes of cooking. These peppers aren’t just for heat—they bring a uniquely bright, vinegary note that cuts through the creaminess in such a satisfying way.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth while scraping up all those lovely browned bits stuck to the skillet’s bottom. These bits are flavor gold! Then stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. The magic happens here as the sauce starts thickening and melding all those flavors into one cohesive, dreamy coating that embraces each chicken breast.

Step 5: Finish Cooking the Chicken

Return the seared chicken back to the skillet, nestling it into the creamy sauce. Let everything simmer together until the chicken is perfectly cooked through and the sauce reaches a luscious thickness, about 10 minutes. This final simmer-infuses the chicken with all those incredible pepperoncini and creamy flavors, completing your Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet masterpiece.

How to Serve Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley on top not only brightens the dish visually but adds a fresh, herbaceous note that cuts through the richness. You can even add a few extra pepperoncini slices on the side for an inviting flair.

Side Dishes

This creamy, tangy skillet pairs beautifully with crusty bread that soaks up every last bit of sauce. Alternatively, a bed of fluffy rice or your favorite pasta makes the dish complete and satisfying. Roasted or steamed green vegetables add a nice color contrast and a refreshing crunch alongside the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the chicken sliced over creamy polenta or mashed potatoes, letting the sauce cascade over like a silky blanket. You can also plate individual servings in shallow bowls for a cozy, rustic look that invites everyone to dig in and savor every bite of your Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep beautifully for up to 3 days, making for a perfect next-day meal that tastes just as delightful when reheated.

Freezing

If you want to save it longer, freeze the chicken with the creamy sauce in a freezer-safe container. It’s best consumed within 2 months. Be sure to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the texture and flavor integrity.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from separating. If it seems too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore that silky consistency, ensuring your Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet tastes just like fresh.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully, offering a bit more juiciness and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may take a few minutes longer to cook through.

How spicy is this dish?

The heat level is generally mild since pepperoncini peppers are more tangy than spicy. However, you can adjust the amount of peppers to suit your taste and even add a pinch of crushed red pepper if you like more kick.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or a mixture of cream cheese and milk, but keep in mind this might slightly change the richness and texture of the sauce.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet is naturally gluten-free as long as your chicken broth does not contain any wheat-based additives. Always double-check labels if you have dietary restrictions.

Can I make this dish in advance?

You can prepare the chicken and sauce components ahead, keep them refrigerated separately, then combine and gently warm just before serving to maintain freshness and flavor.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a dish that’s both comforting and exciting to the palate, you can’t go wrong with the Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet. Its creamy texture, balanced with that perfect pop of pepperoncini magic, makes it an instant favorite for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try—you’ll soon find why it deserves a permanent place in your cooking rotation!

Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 19 reviews

Author: Lily
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Salt

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Description

This Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet features tender, golden-brown chicken breasts simmered in a luscious sauce made with pepperoncini peppers, onions, garlic, chicken broth, and heavy cream. The tangy heat from the peppers perfectly balances the rich and creamy sauce, making it a comforting and flavorful one-pan dinner that pairs beautifully with crusty bread or pasta.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Seasoning

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper to taste

Sauce

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, thinly sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup sliced pepperoncini peppers
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream

Garnish

Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Heat the skillet: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Cook chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add to the skillet and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
Sauté aromatics: In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and minced garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft and translucent, about 3 minutes.
Add pepperoncini: Stir in the sliced pepperoncini peppers and cook for an additional 2 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Deglaze skillet: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan to add depth of flavor.
Add cream and simmer: Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Return chicken and finish cooking: Place the chicken breasts back into the skillet. Simmer uncovered until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened, about 10 minutes.
Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top before serving. Enjoy hot with crusty bread or over pasta.