Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet is a simple and tasty dish that brings together tender chicken thighs, tangy pepperoncini peppers, and a smooth, creamy sauce. The peppers add just the right amount of zing and a little kick, balancing perfectly with the richness of the sauce. It’s a one-pan meal that feels fancy but comes together without any fuss.
I love making this skillet when I want something quick but flavorful on the dinner table. The combination of the tangy peppers and creamy sauce makes every bite interesting, and the chicken stays juicy and soft. A little tip: using bone-in chicken thighs really keeps the meat moist and full of flavor, and the sauce helps keep everything nice and tender.
Serving it over rice or pasta is my favorite way to enjoy this dish because the sauce soaks right into the sides, making every forkful complete. I’ve also tried it with roasted veggies for a lighter meal, and it works just as well. This meal always brings smiles around my dining table, and leftovers taste just as good the next day, which is a win in my book.
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Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for juicy, tender meat, but breasts work well too if you want leaner protein. Just watch cooking times as breasts cook faster.
Pepperoncini Peppers: These give the recipe its zesty, tangy flavor and gentle heat. If you can’t find them, pickled banana peppers or mild pepper slices are good substitutes.
Heavy Cream & Parmesan: They make the sauce rich and creamy. For a lighter version, try half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan if you want dairy-free.
Capers & Italian Seasoning: These add an extra layer of flavor. If you don’t have capers, green olives chopped fine can bring a similar briny taste.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Golden and Juicy?
Getting a nice golden crust on the chicken adds big flavor and keeps it juicy inside. Follow these tips:
- Pat chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning—it helps the surface brown better.
- Heat your skillet and oil until shimmering but not smoking before adding chicken.
- Don’t move the chicken around too much—let it cook undisturbed 4-5 minutes per side for a crisp outside.
- If your chicken is very thick, consider flattening it slightly to cook evenly.
Once browned, set the chicken aside while you build the sauce. This way, you get great flavor without overcooking the meat.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – Perfect for browning chicken and simmering the creamy sauce all in one pan.
- Tongs – Make flipping the chicken easy without tearing the meat.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – Helps stir the sauce gently without scratching your pan.
- Measuring cups and spoons – For quick and accurate ingredient additions, like cream and seasonings.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for turkey cutlets for a leaner option; they cook quickly and soak up the sauce nicely.
- Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a sweet, tangy boost that pairs well with pepperoncini.
- Stir in fresh spinach or kale at the end for a green, nutritious touch that wilts into the sauce.
- Use feta or goat cheese instead of Parmesan for a tangier, creamier sauce experience.
Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup pepperoncini peppers, sliced (plus 1/4 cup juice from the jar)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- 2 tablespoons capers (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 25 minutes to cook, for a total of roughly 35 minutes. It’s a quick, one-skillet meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season and Brown the Chicken:
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts or thighs on both sides with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside for now.
2. Cook the Aromatics and Peppers:
Turn the heat down to medium. Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until it’s soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Next, stir in the sliced pepperoncini peppers along with 1/4 cup of their juice, and cook for about a minute to bring out their tangy flavor.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce and Finish the Dish:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and capers. Let the sauce simmer quietly for 3-4 minutes until it thickens a bit. Return the cooked chicken back to the skillet and spoon some sauce over each piece. Cover the skillet and let everything simmer on low heat for another 5-7 minutes to allow the chicken to fully cook and soak up the delicious sauce.
4. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a fresh finish. Serve your creamy pepperoncini chicken warm over rice, pasta, or alongside roasted veggies to soak up every bit of the creamy, tangy 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 with paper towels to remove excess moisture for better browning.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the chicken and sauce up to step 8, then cool and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, and add a splash of broth or cream to refresh the sauce if needed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat or microwave until warmed through, stirring to keep the sauce creamy.
What Are Good Side Dishes to Serve with Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce. For a lighter option, try serving with roasted or steamed vegetables or a simple green salad.
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