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Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet – Zesty, Rich & One-Pan Comfort

If you love bold, tangy flavors wrapped in a silky sauce, this Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet is about to steal your heart. Tender chicken cooks in one pan with garlic, onion, roasted red peppers, and bright pepperoncini, then gets smothered in a luscious cream-and-parmesan sauce that’s savory, zesty, and deeply comforting. This recipe delivers restaurant-style flavor with weeknight ease. It’s pork-free and alcohol-free, relies on simple pantry staples, and comes together in a single skillet—meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy. Serve it over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread for a dinner that feels special without the stress.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Straightforward ingredients for bold creamy flavor.
Protein
  • 2 lbs chicken boneless skinless breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
Aromatics & Vegetables
  • 1 white onion sliced
  • 2 tablespoons garlic minced
  • ½ cup pepperoncini peppers sliced
  • ½ cup roasted red peppers sliced
Cooking Fat
  • 2 tablespoons butter
Sauce Base
  • ½ cup chicken stock
  • 1 cup heavy cream
Cheese
  • ½ cup parmesan cheese freshly grated
Seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

Equipment

  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula

Method
 

  1. Follow these steps for perfectly saucy pepperoncini chicken.
Step 1: Season the Chicken
  1. Pat chicken dry.
  2. Season evenly with sea salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
  1. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add chicken in batches.
  3. Cook 4–5 minutes, turning to brown on all sides.
  4. Remove chicken and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
  1. In the same skillet, add onion.
  2. Cook 3–4 minutes until soft.
  3. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Add Peppers
  1. Stir in pepperoncini and roasted red peppers.
  2. Cook 1–2 minutes to release flavor.
Step 5: Build the Sauce
  1. Pour in chicken stock, scraping up any browned bits.
  2. Reduce heat to medium.
  3. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 6: Add Cheese
  1. Lower heat to medium-low.
  2. Stir in parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Step 7: Finish the Dish
  1. Return chicken to the skillet.
  2. Simmer 5–7 minutes until chicken is fully cooked and sauce thickens.
  3. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 8: Serve
  1. Remove from heat.
  2. Serve hot with your favorite side.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop.
Add a splash of chicken stock or cream if needed.
Freezing
Not recommended due to cream sauce texture.
🥄 Variations
Customize your creamy chicken skillet:
Extra Zesty
Add an extra spoon of pepperoncini.
Milder Version
Reduce pepperoncini by half.
Herb Boost
Add fresh parsley or basil before serving.
Low-Carb
Serve over cauliflower rice or sautéed greens.
Cheese Lover’s
Add more parmesan for a thicker sauce.
❓ 10 FAQs
Is this dish spicy?
Mildly tangy, not hot.
Can I use chicken thighs?
Yes, they’re extra juicy.
What do pepperoncini add?
Bright, zesty flavor that balances creaminess.
Is this kid-friendly?
Yes, reduce pepperoncini if needed.
Can I make it ahead?
Best fresh, but reheats well.
Does the sauce thicken naturally?
Yes, from cream and parmesan.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a larger skillet.
What sides go best?
Rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes.
Can I add vegetables?
Spinach or mushrooms work well.
Is this a one-pan meal?
Yes, everything cooks in one skillet.
🏁 Conclusion
This Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet brings together tender chicken, zesty peppers, and a luxurious cream sauce in one irresistible dish. Easy, comforting, and packed with flavor, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep on repeat for busy weeknights and relaxed family dinners.