This Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet Dinner is a cozy one-pan meal that’s packed with flavor. Tender chicken is cooked with zesty pepperoncini and creamy sauce, making it super tasty!
You’ll love how simple it is to whip up on busy nights. Just throw everything in the skillet and let it work its magic. Serve it over pasta or rice for a hearty dinner—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish. You can also use thighs for added flavor and juiciness. If you’re in a hurry, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken works well too.
Pepperoncini Peppers: These peppers give the dish a nice kick and tang. If you can’t find them, try banana peppers or jalapeños for some heat. You could even use pickled jalapeños for a spicier flavor!
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream makes the sauce rich and creamy. For a lighter option, use half-and-half or even coconut milk if you want a dairy-free alternative. Just remember, coconut milk will change the flavor a bit!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan will make your sauce even better. If you don’t have parmesan, pecorino Romano or Grana Padano can work well too. Nutritional yeast is a good vegan alternative if you’re avoiding dairy.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
The key to cooking chicken breasts is to ensure they’re evenly cooked without drying out. Here’s how to do it right:
- Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken, which gives a nice sear.
- Don’t crowd the pan; cook in batches if needed to avoid steaming.
- Check the thickest part for doneness; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest a few minutes before cutting to keep it juicy.
Cooking your chicken this way will guarantee that it remains tender and flavorful in your creamy sauce!
Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup pepperoncini juice (from the jar)
- 1 cup pepperoncini peppers, sliced (about 8-10 peppers)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy and delicious dinner takes approximately 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s perfect for a weeknight meal—quick, satisfying, and packed with flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides. This is what will enhance their flavor. Next, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, go ahead and add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 30 seconds until fragrant, which will fill your kitchen with a lovely aroma. Be careful not to burn it!
3. Create the Sauce Base:
Now it’s time to build the sauce. Pour in the chicken broth and the pepperoncini juice. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any tasty browned bits from the bottom of the skillet; those bits add tons of flavor. Stir in the sliced pepperoncini peppers and the Italian seasoning. Let this mixture simmer for about 3-4 minutes.
4. Make it Creamy:
Reduce the heat to medium-low and mix in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until combined and allow the sauce to simmer gently. You want it to thicken slightly—this step enhances the creaminess!
5. Thicken the Sauce (Optional):
If you like a thicker sauce, here’s a little trick: Mix the cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water to create a slurry and whisk it slowly into the sauce. Simmer for another minute until it thickens up nicely.
6. Final Touches:
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon the creamy sauce over them. Let everything heat together for an additional 2-3 minutes so the chicken can soak up some of that delicious flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Once everything is heated through, garnish with some chopped fresh parsley. Serve your Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken hot over rice, pasta, or even with some crusty bread to soak up that delightful sauce. Enjoy your cozy meal!
Note: If you have leftovers, this dish keeps well in the fridge for a couple of days and reheats beautifully!
FAQ for Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet Dinner
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s essential to thaw it completely before cooking. For quicker thawing, place the chicken in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for about an hour. Make sure to pat it dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the skillet.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Absolutely! If you want to amp up the heat, consider adding some sliced jalapeños or a dash of red pepper flakes when you add the garlic. Adjust the seasoning to your taste as needed!
What Should I Serve with This Dish?
This Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, or even mashed potatoes. For a lighter option, serve it alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the sauce.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. If the sauce has thickened in the fridge, you can add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up while reheating.
