This Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet Meal is a tasty and simple dish! With juicy chicken and zesty pepperoncini peppers mixed in a creamy sauce, it’s a flavor explosion!
One of my favorite things about this meal is how quick it is to make! I love serving it over rice or pasta. It’s like a warm hug on a plate. Trust me, you’ll want seconds! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great, but you can swap them for thighs if you prefer more flavor and juiciness. Just adjust the cooking time as thighs may take a bit longer.
Pepperoncini Peppers: These add a nice zing! If you can’t find them, you could use banana peppers or even green bell peppers for a milder taste. Just know that the flavor will be different.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, consider substituting half-and-half or even full-fat coconut milk, which will change the flavor profile a bit but still keep it creamy.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds richness. You can use Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste or any hard cheese you have on hand. Just avoid pre-grated versions for the best texture!
How Do I Perfectly Sear Chicken?
Searing chicken properly is key to giving it that golden-brown crust full of flavor! Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the oil; it should shimmer when it’s ready.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet, as this can cause steaming instead of searing. Cook in batches if you’re making a lot!
- Let the chicken cook without moving it for about 5 minutes, then flip it. This helps get that nice brown crust.
After searing, always let the chicken rest slightly. It keeps the juices inside for a more tender bite!
Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet Meal
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 jar (about 10 ounces) pepperoncini peppers, drained (reserve juice)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick and perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This will add flavor to your chicken and make it delicious!
2. Searing the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is nice and hot, add in the seasoned chicken breasts. Sear them until they’re golden brown on both sides—about 5 minutes per side is perfect. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sautéing the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. You’ll want to keep an eye on it to prevent burning—just until it’s fragrant and aromatic!
4. Adding Liquid and Peppers:
Pour in the chicken broth and about 1/3 cup of the reserved pepperoncini juice. Give it a good stir, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This adds even more flavor to your dish! Toss in the pepperoncini peppers and Italian seasoning, mixing everything well.
5. Simmering the Chicken:
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low, and cover the skillet. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked all the way through (internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C).
6. Making the Creamy Sauce:
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet again and set it aside. Now, it’s time to create that creamy sauce—stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese into the skillet. Cook this mixture for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
7. Combining Everything:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, gently coating it with the creamy sauce. It’s looking so good already!
8. Garnishing and Serving:
Garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley and serve it immediately. Pair it with rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes to soak up that delicious sauce. Enjoy!
Your Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet Meal is ready to be deliciously devoured! Enjoy the wonderful flavors and the compliments that come your way.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking. Thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight or use the quick method: place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for about an hour. Make sure to pat it dry before seasoning!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free version, try full-fat coconut milk; it will add a unique flavor but still provide creaminess!
How Long Will Leftovers Last in the Fridge?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed to loosen the sauce.
What’s the Best Way to Serve This Dish?
This meal pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes to soak up the creamy sauce. You can also serve it over a bed of steamed vegetables or alongside a fresh salad for a lighter option!
