Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet is a simple and delicious one-pan meal that brings together tender chicken breasts, tangy pepperoncini peppers, and a rich, creamy sauce. The pepperoncini peppers add just the right amount of zing and a little hint of spice, making every bite full of flavor. The creamy sauce ties everything together perfectly, creating a cozy dish that’s both satisfying and easy to make.
I love making this skillet when I want dinner ready quickly but still want something that feels special. It’s one of those dishes where the ingredients come together effortlessly, but the taste feels like you spent hours cooking. Plus, the pepperoncini peppers give it a nice little kick that keeps it interesting without being too spicy for most people.
My favorite way to serve this is over a bed of rice or alongside some crusty bread to soak up all the creamy sauce. It’s also great with roasted veggies or a simple green salad for a complete meal. This skillet is a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or when guests drop by unexpectedly—I know it’s going to please everyone at the table.
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Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for quick cooking. If you prefer, thighs offer more juiciness but may need a bit more cooking time.
Pepperoncini Peppers: These bring a mild tangy heat and a unique flavor. Can’t find them? Mild banana peppers make a solid substitute.
Heavy Cream: Adds richness and smooth texture. For a lighter option, try half-and-half or coconut milk, but the sauce won’t be quite as thick.
Parmesan Cheese: Provides umami depth and helps thicken the sauce. Pecorino Romano can replace it if you want a sharper taste.
Green Beans & Red Bell Pepper: Fresh or frozen green beans work fine. The red bell pepper adds sweetness and vibrant color; you can skip or swap it for any tender vegetable.
How Do You Get the Chicken Juicy and the Sauce Creamy?
The key is searing your chicken properly and timing the sauce steps right:
- Pat chicken dry to get a good sear. This locks in juices and creates a tasty crust.
- Use medium-high heat for searing, about 4-5 minutes per side—don’t move the chicken too soon.
- After cooking chicken, build the sauce in the same pan to capture all the browned bits—this adds loads of flavor.
- Add cream and Parmesan off the heat first, then gently simmer to prevent curdling and ensure a smooth texture.
- Add vegetables last so they stay crisp and bright, preserving their texture and nutrients.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large nonstick or cast-iron skillet – great for searing chicken evenly and making the creamy sauce in one pan.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – perfect for stirring without scratching your skillet.
- Sharp knife – essential for slicing peppers and trimming veggies quickly and safely.
- Measuring cups and spoons – helps keep the flavors balanced every time you cook.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken breasts for thighs for a richer, juicier result that stays tender.
- Add mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes to boost earthiness and add a chewy texture.
- Use feta or goat cheese instead of Parmesan for a tangier, creamier sauce twist.
- Stir in fresh herbs like basil or thyme at the end for a bright, fresh flavor lift.
Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (halved if large)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For The Sauce and Veggies:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar (about 10 ounces) pepperoncini peppers with juice
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed (fresh or frozen)
- ½ red bell pepper, sliced thin (optional for color and sweetness)
- 2 tablespoons capers, drained
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, so you can have a delicious dinner ready in roughly 30 minutes. It’s a great option for a quick, flavorful meal on busy nights.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Season the Chicken:
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Sear the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Start the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the pepperoncini peppers with their juice and chicken broth. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
4. Make the Creamy Base:
Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
5. Add Vegetables:
Add the green beans, sliced red bell pepper (if using), and capers. Let everything simmer for 3-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
6. Combine and Finish:
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy sauce. Simmer for another 3-4 minutes to heat everything through and let the flavors come together.
7. Final Touches:
Taste and add more salt or pepper if needed. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top before serving.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve this creamy pepperoncini chicken hot over rice, mashed potatoes, or alongside some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Pat it dry well to ensure a good sear.
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream?
You can use half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter option, but the sauce may be less rich and thick. Adding a bit more Parmesan helps with thickness.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to keep the sauce smooth.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or asparagus make great additions. Add them when you add the green beans to ensure they cook through.
