Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet
This Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet is a simple, tasty dish that brings together tender chicken breasts and tangy pepperoncini peppers in a rich, creamy sauce. The mix of creaminess with…
By Ava
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Reading time: 6 min
Tip: save now, make later.
This Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet is a simple, tasty dish that brings together tender chicken breasts and tangy pepperoncini peppers in a rich, creamy sauce. The mix of creaminess with a slight zing from the peppers makes each bite really satisfying and full of flavor without being too complicated to make.
I love how quickly this skillet comes together, which is great for busy weeknights. What I find best about it is that the pepperoncini peppers add just the right bit of brightness and a little heat that balances the creamy sauce perfectly. It’s one of those meals I keep coming back to when I want something comforting but not heavy.
Serving this with a side of steamed rice or some crusty bread is my go-to because that creamy sauce is perfect for soaking up, and the chicken stays tender and juicy. It’s also a crowd-pleaser at dinner parties—people always ask for the recipe. I’ve even made it ahead of time and found that the flavors get better the next day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: I like using boneless, skinless chicken breasts because they cook quickly and stay tender in the skillet. If you prefer dark meat, thighs also work well for a juicier result.
Pepperoncini peppers: These give the dish its signature tang and mild heat. If you can’t find them, pickled banana peppers or mild pepper rings are good substitutes. Just keep some of the juice for that zesty touch.
Heavy cream: It makes the sauce rich and smooth. For a lighter version, try half-and-half or coconut cream, but the sauce may be less thick and creamy.
Capers: They add a nice salty, briny flavor that brightens up the sauce. If you don’t have capers, a small splash of green olives or a pinch of salt can do the trick.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Browned and Juicy?
Browning the chicken well sets the base flavor for this dish, so take your time here. Follow these tips:
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning—it helps the surface brown instead of steaming.
- Heat your skillet and oil thoroughly before adding the chicken so it sizzles right away.
- Don’t crowd the pan; cook in batches if needed to keep the temperature steady.
- Let the chicken cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes per side until golden, then remove before it’s fully cooked to finish in the sauce.
- This method locks in juices and gives you flavorful, tender chicken every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – A heavy-bottomed skillet helps brown the chicken evenly and hold the creamy sauce without sticking.
- Tongs – Useful for flipping the chicken breasts gently without breaking the meat.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – Perfect for stirring the sauce and scraping up the flavorful bits from the pan.
- Measuring cups and spoons – To get the right amounts of broth, cream, and spices for that perfect sauce balance.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier, more tender result with a bit richer flavor.
- Add sliced mushrooms or baby spinach to the sauce for extra texture and nutrition.
- Swap capers for green olives to offer a milder briny flavor that works well if capers aren’t your favorite.
- Mix in a handful of shredded Parmesan cheese at the end for added richness and a slightly nutty taste.
Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 1 jar (about 7 ounces) pepperoncini peppers, sliced (reserve 2 tablespoons juice)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons capers, drained
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
- Fresh rosemary or parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, for a total time of roughly 30 minutes. It’s a quick and easy skillet dish perfect for a busy weeknight.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Brown the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook each side for about 4-5 minutes or until they’re golden brown and nearly cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the thinly sliced onions and sauté until they become soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Next, add the sliced pepperoncini peppers and minced garlic, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until you can smell their aroma.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce
Add the chicken broth to the pan, stirring well to loosen any browned bits from the bottom. Then stir in the reserved pepperoncini juice, heavy cream, capers, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Finish Cooking the Chicken in the Sauce
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon some sauce over the top, then lower the heat to medium-low. Let everything simmer for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce thickens a bit.
5. Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle chopped fresh rosemary or parsley over the skillet before serving. Enjoy this creamy, tangy chicken with rice, pasta, or some crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to thaw the chicken completely in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This ensures even cooking and the best texture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if the sauce thickens too much.
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
You can use half-and-half or a blend of milk and cream for a lighter sauce, but the texture won’t be quite as rich. Coconut cream is a good dairy-free alternative, but it will add a subtle coconut flavor.
What Are Good Side Dishes to Serve With This Skillet?
Rice, pasta, or crusty bread work great to soak up the creamy sauce. You can also serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.