Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet is a bold yet comforting one-pan dinner featuring tender seared chicken simmered in a tangy, creamy pepperoncini-infused sauce. The briny bite of the peppers balances the richness of the cream, creating a flavorful dish that pairs beautifully with pasta or rice. Designed for busy weeknights, this recipe delivers layered flavor with minimal cleanup.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pan Convenience – Everything cooks in a single skillet for easy cleanup.
- Bold, Tangy Flavor – Pepperoncini peppers add brightness and subtle heat without overpowering.
- Creamy Yet Balanced – The sauce is rich but lifted by acidity from the peppers and optional wine.
- Quick Weeknight Dinner – Ready in about 40 minutes from start to finish.
- Customizable Heat Level – Easily adjust red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
- Versatile Serving Options – Works over pasta, rice, or even in sandwiches and wraps.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Components
- 1½–2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs – Provide lean protein and remain tender when simmered.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – Promotes even browning during searing.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste – Essential seasoning foundation.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – Adds herbal depth.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder – Reinforces savory flavor.
Aromatics & Flavor Base
- ½ medium onion, thinly sliced – Builds sweetness and aromatic balance.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – Adds bold, savory complexity.
- ¾–1 cup sliced pepperoncini peppers – Deliver tangy brightness and mild heat.
- ¼ cup pepperoncini juice (optional) – Enhances briny depth in the sauce.
Sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth – Forms the savory base of the sauce.
- ½ cup heavy cream – Adds richness and smooth texture.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – Adjusts spice level.
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese (optional) – Thickens sauce and adds body.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) – Brightens and finishes the dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Season the Chicken
Pat chicken dry and season evenly with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder to ensure balanced flavor.
Sear for Flavor
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sear 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside (chicken will finish cooking in sauce).
Build the Aromatic Base
In the same skillet, add sliced onions and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Deglaze and Add Peppers
(Optional) Add a splash of dry white wine and simmer 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly. Stir in sliced pepperoncini and a small amount of their juice for added tang.
Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in heavy cream, red pepper flakes, and cream cheese (if using), whisking until smooth.
Simmer Until Tender
Return chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over the top, and simmer for 8–12 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and sauce thickens slightly.
Finish and Garnish
Adjust seasoning as needed. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot over pasta or rice.
Recipe Notes & Tips
- Control the Tang – Start with a small amount of pepperoncini juice and adjust to taste.
- Avoid Overcooking Chicken – Simmer gently to maintain moisture.
- Add Cheese for Extra Creaminess – Parmesan or mozzarella can be stirred in at the end.
- Incorporate Vegetables – Bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini pair well.
- Wine Boost – A splash of dry white wine deepens flavor complexity.
- Slow Cooker Option – Cook chicken, peppers, and broth on low 6–8 hours; stir in cream at the end.
Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4–6 servings
- Calories: Approximately 400–500 calories per serving (estimate; varies by cream quantity and portion size)
Perfect Pairings
- Buttered Egg Noodles or Fettuccine – Absorb the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Steamed White or Brown Rice – Provides a neutral base.
- Garlic Bread – Ideal for scooping extra sauce.
- Simple Green Salad – Balances richness with freshness.
Ideal Occasions
- Busy Weeknight Dinner – Quick, satisfying, and minimal cleanup.
- Family Gatherings – Mild heat appeals to a wide audience.
- Casual Entertaining – Elegant flavor without complicated prep.
- Meal Prep Planning – Stores and reheats well for weekday lunches.
Storage & Serving Tips
- Refrigerate Airtight – Store up to 3 days.
- Reheat Gently – Warm over low heat to prevent cream from separating.
- Freeze Without Cream (Best Practice) – Add cream after reheating for best texture.
- Refresh Before Serving – Add a splash of broth if sauce thickens too much.
Creative Variations to Try
- Spicy Version – Add extra red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños.
- Cheesy Upgrade – Stir in grated Parmesan at the end.
- Low-Carb Option – Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
- Stuffed Pepper Style – Use as filling for bell peppers or zucchini boats.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Sauce Too Thin – Simmer longer uncovered or add a small amount of cream cheese.
- Sauce Separating – Lower heat and avoid rapid boiling after adding cream.
- Too Tangy – Balance with additional cream or a pinch of sugar.
- Chicken Dry – Use thighs instead of breasts or reduce simmer time.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe succeeds by balancing fat, acid, and savory depth. Pepperoncini peppers introduce acidity and brine that cut through the richness of heavy cream, preventing the sauce from feeling heavy. Proper searing develops Maillard browning, building foundational flavor before simmering. Gentle heat keeps proteins tender while allowing flavors to meld. The combination of broth and cream creates a lightly emulsified sauce that clings well to pasta or rice. At roughly 400–500 calories per serving, it provides a satisfying, protein-rich meal with customizable richness.
Final Thoughts
Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet is a flavorful, weeknight-friendly dish that feels elevated without requiring complex techniques. Its tangy, creamy sauce and tender chicken make it endlessly versatile and adaptable to different diets and preferences. For a lighter version, reduce cream slightly or substitute half-and-half. Whether served over pasta, rice, or vegetables, this one-pan recipe delivers comfort and bold flavor in every bite.
