This Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet Dinner is a quick and yummy meal! Tender chicken simmered in a rich, creamy sauce with tangy pepperoncini peppers will make your taste buds dance.
What’s great about this dish is how easy it is to make in one pan. I love serving it over rice, and even my picky eater friends can’t resist! Who knew dinner could be this fun? 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star here for their quick cook time and tenderness. If you’re looking for alternatives, thighs have more flavor and stay moist, or you can use turkey breasts for a leaner option.
Pepperoncini peppers: These add a delightful tang. If you can’t find them, banana peppers or jalapeños (for more spice) work as substitutes. Just remember to adjust the amount based on how spicy you want the dish!
Heavy cream: This adds richness to the sauce. If you want a lighter version, opt for half-and-half or use coconut milk for a dairy-free choice. Either will change the flavor slightly, but they’ll still give a creamy texture.
Parmesan cheese: This adds nuttiness and depth to the dish. Grated Pecorino Romano is a great substitute if you’re out of Parmesan, or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option that still packs flavor.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Getting juicy chicken is crucial for this dish! Here’s how to ensure it turns out perfectly every time:
- First, make sure your chicken breasts are of even thickness. If they’re too thick, consider butterflying them to help with even cooking.
- Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper before cooking. This helps enhance the flavor.
- Cook on medium-high heat and resist the urge to move them around. Let them sit and get that lovely golden crust for about 5-7 minutes on each side.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, aiming for 165°F.
Giving the chicken a few minutes to rest after cooking will also keep juices from running out when you slice into it!
Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup pepperoncini peppers, sliced (with some juice)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
For the Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take you about 10 minutes to prep and around 20-25 minutes to cook, resulting in a total time of about 35-40 minutes. It’s a quick meal that bursts with flavor, perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. This step adds a lot of flavor, so don’t be shy!
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook them until they are golden brown on both sides and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes per side, depending on how thick they are. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
4. Add the Pepperoncini:
Add the sliced pepperoncini peppers along with a few tablespoons of the pepper juice into the skillet. Stir everything together to combine.
5. Create the Flavorful Sauce:
Next, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. As it heats up, scrape the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon to deglaze it, loosening any tasty browned bits stuck to the bottom!
6. Make it Creamy:
Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, oregano, basil, and crushed red pepper flakes if you’d like a little kick. Let the sauce simmer for about 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
7. Combine the Chicken and Sauce:
Now it’s time to return the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet. Spoon some of that creamy sauce over the top and let everything simmer together for another 3-5 minutes. This will help the flavors meld beautifully.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Just before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve this creamy pepperoncini chicken over rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta to soak up all that delicious sauce!
Enjoy your hearty, creamy, and tangy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet Dinner!
FAQ for Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet Dinner
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it completely before cooking. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the quick method of placing it in a sealed bag and submerging it in cold water. Once thawed, proceed with the recipe as directed!
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative. For the Parmesan cheese, use a dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor without the dairy.
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 medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. If the sauce thickens too much upon cooling, add a splash of chicken broth or water while reheating.
What Can I Serve This Dish With?
This creamy pepperoncini chicken pairs wonderfully with rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta to soak up the delicious sauce. For a lighter option, consider serving it over steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad!
