This tasty Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet Dinner is quick and easy! With juicy chicken, a zesty sauce, and a hint of spice from the pepperoncini, it hits all the right spots.
I love how one pan does it all—fewer dishes, more fun! Serve it over rice or pasta, and get ready for a deliciously satisfying meal that warms the heart. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this dish. If you’re looking for a quicker option, precooked rotisserie chicken can be used instead. Just add it to the sauce to heat through.
Pepperoncini Peppers: These add a nice tang and mild heat. If you can’t find them, you could try banana peppers or jalapeños for a different flavor profile! For less kick, remove the seeds if using jalapeños.
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce rich and creamy. If you’d like a lighter option, use half-and-half, or for dairy-free, try coconut cream or cashew cream to keep it creamy without dairy.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds great flavor. Pecorino Romano is a nice alternative. If you’re looking for a non-dairy option, nutritional yeast can give a cheesy flavor as well.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking the chicken just right ensures it’s juicy and tender. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with chicken at room temperature; this helps cook evenly.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! Cook in batches if necessary. Each piece should have space around it.
- Cook until golden brown on both sides, about 4-6 minutes per side on medium-high heat.
- To check if it’s done, cut into the thickest part—there should be no pink, or use a meat thermometer to reach 165°F (75°C).
With these tips, you’ll have flavorful chicken every time! Enjoy your meal!
How to Make Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup pepperoncini peppers, sliced, plus 2 tablespoons juice from the jar
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For Serving:
- Cooked rice or pasta
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy skillet dinner will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll need approximately 10 minutes for prep and about 20 minutes for cooking. A quick meal that’s packed with flavor and ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides to enhance the flavor. This will give your dish a great taste right from the get-go!
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook them for about 4-6 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. They should have no pink inside! Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Turn down the heat to medium and toss in the minced garlic into the same skillet. Give it a good stir and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until you can smell the delicious garlic aroma wafting through your kitchen!
4. Add the Peppers and Broth:
Next, stir in the sliced pepperoncini peppers along with the juice. Pour in the chicken broth and raise the heat to bring everything to a simmer. Let it simmer and reduce slightly for about 3 minutes. This step will deepen the flavors.
5. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Lower the heat again and add in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes (if you’re using them). Stir everything together and let it cook for about 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens a bit.
6. Combine the Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over the top. Let it simmer in the sauce for another 2-3 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully together.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once everything is ready, garnish your creamy pepperoncini chicken with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley. Serve it hot over your choice of cooked rice or pasta, spooning extra sauce on top for that extra flavor boost!
Enjoy your tangy, creamy, and comforting skillet dinner! It’s sure to be a hit with family and friends!
FAQ for Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet Dinner
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way to do this is to refrigerate overnight or use the quick method of sealing them in a plastic bag and submerging in cold water. Pat them dry before seasoning!
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even milk with a bit of cornstarch to thicken. For a dairy-free alternative, try coconut cream or cashew cream to maintain that rich texture.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Add Extra Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them with the garlic before adding the chicken broth to the skillet.
