This Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet is a tasty one-pan meal. It features tender chicken cooked in a creamy sauce with zesty pepperoncinis, garlic, and spices—perfect for any night!
What I love most is how quick it is to make. You can serve it over rice or pasta, and dinner is done in no time! Plus, the creamy sauce is just begging for some bread to soak it up! 🍗🥖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect because they cook quickly and stay tender. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use chicken thighs, which add more flavor and moisture.
Pepperoncini Peppers: These give a nice tangy kick to the dish. If you can’t find them, you can use banana peppers or pickled jalapeños for a similar flavor. Fresh peppers are an option too, but they won’t have that briny zing.
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce rich and creamy. You can switch to half-and-half or a non-dairy milk like coconut cream for a lighter or dairy-free alternative, but the sauce will be thinner.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice salty depth. You can replace it with Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast if you need a dairy-free option.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken perfectly is key to this dish’s success. Here’s how to ensure it doesn’t dry out:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken. This helps to sear the chicken and lock in moisture.
- Cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes per side. Look for a golden brown color—this means it’s well-cooked.
- Always let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking, as it helps keep the juices inside when you cut into it.
Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup pepperoncini peppers with juice (about 10-12 peppers)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet takes about 30 minutes total. You’ll need around 10 minutes for preparation and 20 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and tasty option for dinner that comes together in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts on both sides with a little salt and black pepper. This simple step adds flavor right from the beginning!
2. Brown the Chicken:
Next, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s fragrant but be careful not to let it burn!
4. Add Peppers and Broth:
Now, add the pepperoncini peppers along with their juice and the chicken broth to the skillet. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, using a wooden spoon to scrape the bottom of the pan and get all those flavorful bits mixed in.
5. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Once it’s simmering, lower the heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, and the crushed red pepper flakes if you want a bit of heat. Mix it all together and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Return the Chicken:
Put the chicken breasts back in the skillet. Spoon some of that delicious sauce over them and let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to let all those flavors blend together.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. This creamy pepperoncini chicken is perfect over rice, pasta, or with a side of crusty bread to soak up the sauce!
Enjoy your flavorful and creamy pepperoncini chicken!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely beforehand! Thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight or using the cold water method in a sealed bag. Pat dry before seasoning and cooking to prevent extra moisture in the skillet.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. You can also omit the Parmesan cheese and use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy!
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, gently reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.
Can I Spice It Up More?
Absolutely! If you love heat, consider adding more crushed red pepper flakes or even a splash of hot sauce to the sauce. You could also incorporate diced jalapeños or other spicy peppers for an extra kick!
