Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet Recipe

BySarah
Jump to Recipe· 4.6 from 19 reviews

If you’re on the hunt for a dinner that’s bursting with flavor but simple enough to whip up on a weeknight, I’ve got you covered. This Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet Recipe is a fan-freaking-tastic dish that combines tender chicken with a luscious, tangy cream sauce featuring those bold, briny pepperoncini peppers. One bite, and you’ll understand why this skillet meal has been a go-to in my kitchen, perfect for impressing family or just treating yourself after a busy day.

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Why This Recipe Works

  • Balance of Flavors: The tangy pepperoncini cuts through the richness of the creamy sauce for a perfectly balanced bite every time.
  • Simple, Minimal Ingredients: You probably already have most of these staples in your kitchen—fewer ingredients means less hassle but big results.
  • One-Pan Convenience: Everything cooks in one skillet, which means easy cleanup and all those flavors develop together beautifully.
  • Versatile Serving Options: Whether you want to serve it over pasta, rice, or roasted veggies, this recipe fits all your dinner mood swings.
Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet, Pepperoncini Chicken Dinner, Easy Creamy Chicken Skillet, Flavorful Skillet Chicken, Quick Chicken Dinner - The image shows a black frying pan on a white marbled surface filled with a creamy dish containing several light beige chicken pieces layered beneath a sauce. The sauce is thick and pale yellow, mixed with diced translucent onions and slices of red and yellow bell peppers scattered throughout. Green parsley pieces are sprinkled evenly on top, adding contrast. Black pepper dots are visible across the dish, giving texture and seasoning hints. The pan’s handle is gold-colored, with no other items in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 this …

Ingredients & Why They Work

Every ingredient in this Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet Recipe plays a vital role in building that perfect creamy, tangy, and savory flavor combination. I love how the brightness of the pepperoncini pairs with the umami of parmesan and richness of cream. Here’s the scoop on why each one makes the dish sing and some tips for picking the best.

Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet, Pepperoncini Chicken Dinner, Easy Creamy Chicken Skillet, Flavorful Skillet Chicken, Quick Chicken Dinner - Flat lay of fresh raw chicken strips, a small pat of butter, a whole white onion diced beside it, a few garlic cloves diced, a small white bowl of pale golden chicken stock, a small white bowl of sliced roasted red peppers, a small white bowl of heavy cream, a small pile of shredded parmesan cheese, a small white bowl of Italian seasoning herbs, a small white bowl filled with bright yellow-green whole pepperoncini peppers, all arranged with perfect symmetry on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997
  • Butter: Adds that silky, golden base flavor that helps the chicken brown beautifully without sticking.
  • Chicken: Thinly sliced chicken cooks quickly and absorbs the sauce flavors better—boneless, skinless breasts or thighs both work!
  • Sea salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the natural flavors; don’t skimp here.
  • Ground pepper: Freshly cracked is ideal for that subtle heat and bite.
  • White onion: Gives a slight sweetness and depth when caramelized just right.
  • Garlic: The heartbeat of most savory dishes, garlic amps up the flavor complexity.
  • Chicken stock: Used to deglaze and build a flavorful base, enhancing the sauce without watering it down.
  • Roasted red pepper: Adds a smoky, sweet contrast and vibrant color to the dish.
  • Heavy cream: The magic ingredient that creates that velvety texture and rich taste.
  • Parmesan cheese: Brings a sharp, nutty flavor that melts into the sauce, adding depth.
  • Italian seasoning: A blend of classic herbs that rounds the flavors out without overpowering.
  • Pepperoncini peppers: The star of the show—these bring a tangy, mildly spicy punch that wakes up every other ingredient.
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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Tweak to Your Taste

I love how flexible the Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet Recipe is. Over the years, I’ve played around with it in so many ways to match what’s in my fridge or what suits my mood that day—and trust me, those tweaks only make it better for you!

  • Variation: Whenever I want a little extra kick, I toss in crushed red pepper flakes along with the pepperoncinis—it adds a subtle heat without overpowering the creaminess.
  • Make it dairy free: Swap heavy cream and parmesan for coconut cream and nutritional yeast for a surprisingly tasty twist.
  • Seasonal twist: In spring or summer, I add fresh chopped basil or parsley for a pop of freshness.
  • Swap the chicken: Turkey strips or pork can work well if chickens aren’t in your meal plan that day.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet Recipe

Step 1: Melt Butter and Brown the Chicken

Start by melting that glorious butter in a large, heavy skillet over medium-high heat. While it’s melting, season your chicken strips thoroughly with sea salt and fresh ground pepper. Once the butter is lightly bubbling, add the chicken in a single layer. Let it brown on all sides, turning every couple of minutes—about 8 minutes total. You want a nice golden crust here; it locks in the juices and flavors. Don’t worry if the chicken isn’t quite cooked through yet; we’ll finish it in the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté Your Aromatics

Remove the chicken to a plate, then toss your diced onion and garlic into the now-empty pan. Lower the heat slightly and let them brown slowly for about 5 minutes. This step infuses the sauce with depth, creating a sweet and savory foundation that balances the tang of the pepperoncini later on.

Step 3: Add Stock and Roasted Red Peppers

Pour in the chicken stock to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits stuck at the bottom. Then add the drained roasted red peppers. Let this reduce by half over about 5 minutes—a good sign that the flavors are concentrating nicely and the sauce is getting thicker.

Step 4: Stir in Cream and Parmesan

Turn the heat off momentarily and stir in your heavy cream and shredded parmesan cheese slowly—whisk vigorously to keep the sauce smooth and creamy. Be patient here; adding cream off-heat prevents curdling and makes the sauce velvety and rich without separating.

Step 5: Finish with Seasoning and Simmer

Turn your heat back to medium-high and add the Italian seasoning and those flavorful, tangy pepperoncini peppers. Return the chicken to the skillet and let the sauce reduce until it’s thickened to your liking and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. If the sauce feels too thick, splash in a bit more chicken stock to loosen it up while cooking. This step lets the chicken soak up the sauce’s flavors completely.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Once everything’s cooked through and saucy perfection has been reached, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve this creamy pepperoncini chicken over whatever you love—steamed veggies, buttery mashed potatoes, pasta, or even just as-is for a low-carb option. Get ready for all the compliments to come your way!

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Pro Tips for Making Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet Recipe

  • Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give the chicken enough space to brown; crowded pieces steam and don’t get that golden crust I love.
  • Use a Heavy Skillet: A good pan retains heat better, helping the sauce reduce evenly and chicken cook perfectly.
  • Whisk Cream Off Heat: Adding cream slowly while whisking off heat prevents sauce from breaking or curdling—trust me, it works wonders.
  • Taste as You Go: The tang of pepperoncini can be strong—start with less and add more if you want to avoid overpowering the sauce.

How to Serve Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet Recipe

Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet, Pepperoncini Chicken Dinner, Easy Creamy Chicken Skillet, Flavorful Skillet Chicken, Quick Chicken Dinner - The image shows several pieces of browned chicken in a creamy white sauce, layered with slices of pale green peppers and small bright red tomato pieces. The chicken appears seasoned with black pepper, and the sauce is thick, coating the chicken and vegetables. The dish is presented close-up in a pan with a dark surface, and the sauce creates a smooth texture around the ingredients. The pieces of chicken are spread across the pan with the peppers and tomatoes scattered on and around them, adding color contrast. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

I usually finish this dish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or basil—that pop of green looks beautiful against the creamy sauce and adds fresh herby notes. Sometimes, a dusting of extra parmesan on top is just perfect if I’m feeling cheesy that day.

Side Dishes

This skillet pairs beautifully with a handful of great sides. I’m partial to simple steamed green beans or a crisp Romaine salad with a zesty vinaigrette to balance richness. For something heartier, creamy mashed potatoes or buttered pasta noodles are unbeatable companions.

Creative Ways to Present

For special dinners, I’ve served the Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet in individual cast-iron skillets—it’s such a warm, rustic presentation that feels cozy and special. Another fun idea is plating it over cheesy polenta rounds topped with fresh herbs for an elevated look your guests will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I like to store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This dish reheats well, but I recommend adding a splash of chicken stock or water when reheating to loosen the sauce if it’s thickened too much.

Freezing

Freezing Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet has worked out pretty well for me. Just let the dish cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently to keep the texture creamy and smooth.

Reheating

I find reheating on the stovetop over medium-low heat with a bit of extra chicken stock works best. Stir frequently to prevent sticking or separating and heat just until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if you can, as the sauce texture suffers a bit.

FAQs

  1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this recipe?

    Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in this Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet Recipe because they’re naturally juicier and have more flavor. Just be sure to cut them into thin strips, so they cook evenly and quickly alongside the sauce.

  2. How spicy is this dish with pepperoncini peppers?

    Pepperoncini peppers have a mild tangy heat rather than intense spiciness, so this dish has flavorful warmth without being fiery. If you prefer less heat, start with fewer pepperoncinis or remove the seeds before adding. You can always add more to taste!

  3. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

    Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or another creamy dairy-free option, and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan cheese for that cheesy flavor. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious and creamy.

  4. What do you recommend serving with the Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet?

    I love serving it with simple sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or pasta to soak up the sauce. A crisp green salad on the side also provides a nice contrast to the richness of the dish.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet Recipe has become a comfort food hero in my home because it’s quick, flavorful, and so adaptable. I promise you, once you try this creamy, tangy, cheesy dish, it’ll be requested again and again. It’s like a little flavor party in your skillet—easy enough for weeknights, impressive enough for company. Give it a go, and I hope it becomes one of your favorites too!

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Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.6 from 19 reviews
  • Author: Sarah
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-American
  • Diet: Low Salt
Print Recipe

Description

Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet is a flavorful and comforting dish featuring tender chicken strips cooked in a rich, creamy sauce infused with pepperoncini peppers, roasted red peppers, and Italian seasoning. This easy one-pan meal is perfect for a quick dinner and pairs wonderfully with vegetables, pasta, or rice.

Ingredients

Protein and Dairy

  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 lbs chicken, cut into thin strips
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup parmesan cheese, shredded

Vegetables and Seasonings

  • 1 tsp sea salt
  • 1 tsp ground pepper
  • 1 white onion, diced
  • 2 tbsp garlic, diced
  • ½ cup roasted red pepper, drained and sliced
  • 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ cup pepperoncini peppers, drained

Liquids

  • ½ cup chicken stock

Instructions

  1. Melt Butter and Brown Chicken: In a large, heavy pan, melt the butter over medium high heat. Season the chicken strips with sea salt and ground pepper, then add them to the pan. Brown the chicken on all sides, turning every couple minutes, until golden and partially cooked, about 8 minutes in total.
  2. Sauté Onion and Garlic: Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside. Add the diced garlic and white onion to the pan and cook until they brown and soften, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add Stock and Roasted Peppers: Pour in the chicken stock and add the roasted red peppers. Let the mixture simmer until the liquid reduces by half, approximately 5 minutes.
  4. Create Cream Sauce: Turn off the heat and slowly stir in the heavy cream and shredded parmesan cheese, whisking vigorously as you combine to create a smooth sauce.
  5. Simmer with Seasoning and Peppers: Return the heat to medium high. Stir in the Italian seasoning and the drained pepperoncini peppers. Add the browned chicken back to the pan.
  6. Finish Cooking and Reduce Sauce: Let the sauce simmer and reduce by half, allowing the chicken to reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Add more chicken stock if the sauce becomes too thick while cooking.
  7. Serve: Remove from heat and serve the creamy pepperoncini chicken over vegetables, pasta, rice, or enjoy it on its own for a delicious meal.

Notes

  • For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream.
  • Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs cut into thin strips for quick, even cooking.
  • If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of pepperoncini or remove the seeds.
  • Serve with pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables to soak up the creamy sauce.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 650 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 7 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 35 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg

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