This Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet is a tasty dish that features tender chicken cooked in a rich, creamy sauce with zesty pepperoncini peppers. It’s a perfect combo of flavors!
Cooking this is a breeze! I love serving it over rice or pasta to soak up that delicious sauce. Plus, you only need one skillet—easy cleanup for winning! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are used for this dish. If you prefer, you can substitute with chicken thighs for a juicier flavor, or use tofu for a vegetarian option.
Pepperoncini Peppers: These provide a tangy flavor. If you can’t find them, try using mild banana peppers or sliced jalapeños for a bit of heat instead.
Heavy Cream: While heavy cream gives a rich texture, you can switch to half-and-half for a lighter sauce or use coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds depth to the sauce. If you need a substitute, nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor for a dairy-free option.
Why is Searing Important for the Chicken?
Searing the chicken is crucial in this recipe to develop a flavorful crust. Here’s how to do it right:
- High Heat: Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken. This helps lock in the juices.
- Don’t Crowd the Pan: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to avoid steaming and ensure even browning.
- Cook Time: Sear each side for about 5-7 minutes. Check with a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Following these tips helps guarantee perfectly cooked chicken with a nice golden-brown finish. Enjoy your cooking!
Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup pepperoncini peppers, sliced, plus 1/4 cup pepperoncini juice (from the jar)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and cooking the chicken, followed by a quick 15-20 minutes for simmering the sauce and bringing everything together. Easy peasy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. It’s simple, but it adds a lot of flavor!
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. After that, take the chicken out of the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds. You want it to become fragrant but not browned, so keep an eye on it!
4. Make the Sauce:
Now, add the chicken broth, heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, sliced pepperoncini peppers, and the pepperoncini juice into the skillet. Stir everything together to combine the delicious flavors.
5. Simmer the Sauce:
Let the sauce come to a simmer, and allow it to cook for about 5 minutes. This will help it thicken up a bit and become extra creamy.
6. Return Chicken to Skillet:
Put the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet. Spoon some of that creamy sauce over the chicken and let everything simmer together for another 3-5 minutes. This will heat the chicken through and let the flavors meld beautifully.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the creamy chicken hot over your choice of rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes, and enjoy every bite!
Enjoy your Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it first! Thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight or for a quicker option, place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water. Once thawed, pat it dry before cooking to ensure a good sear.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative. You can also use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese to maintain a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
What Are the Best Ways to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Add More Veggies to the Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Just sauté them with the garlic in step 3, allowing them to become tender before making the sauce. This not only boosts flavor but also adds extra nutrients!
