Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet is a flavorful, one-pan dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken strips are cooked with tangy pepperoncini peppers, roasted red peppers, and a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce. This easy, comforting meal comes together quickly and will have everyone asking for seconds!

What Is Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet?

This dish features juicy chicken cooked in a luscious, savory cream sauce infused with the bright, tangy flavor of pepperoncini peppers. Roasted red peppers, garlic, and Parmesan add even more depth, making it a comforting yet vibrant dinner option that’s ready in around 30 minutes.

Health Benefits of Pepperoncini Peppers

Pepperoncini peppers are not only flavorful but also packed with health benefits. They’re low in calories and rich in vitamins A and C, both important for immune health and skin vitality. Plus, they contain antioxidants and capsaicin, which may help reduce inflammation and boost metabolism.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 pounds chicken, cut into thin strips
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 teaspoon ground pepper
• 1 white onion, diced
• 2 tablespoons garlic, diced
• ½ cup chicken stock
• ½ cup roasted red peppers, drained and sliced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• ½ cup pepperoncini peppers, drained (sliced, rings, or whole)

Instructions

1. In a large, heavy skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat.
2. Season the chicken strips with salt and pepper. Add them to the skillet and cook, browning on all sides for about 8 minutes. (The chicken may not be fully cooked at this stage — that’s okay!)
3. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
4. Add the diced onion and garlic to the same skillet. Sauté until the onions are soft and golden, about 5 minutes.
5. Pour in the chicken stock and add the roasted red peppers. Let the mixture simmer until reduced by half, about 5 minutes.
6. Turn off the heat and slowly whisk in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth.
7. Return the heat to medium-high. Stir in the Italian seasoning, pepperoncini peppers, and the browned chicken.
8. Let the sauce simmer and reduce by half, cooking the chicken through until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Add a splash of extra chicken stock if the sauce gets too thick.
9. Remove from heat and serve hot over vegetables, pasta, rice, or on its own!

Tips for Best Results

• Use a heavy-bottomed skillet, like cast iron, for even browning and heat retention.
• Adjust the amount of pepperoncini peppers to control the level of tang and heat.
• Add a handful of spinach or some diced tomatoes for extra flavor and color.
• For an even richer sauce, stir in additional Parmesan cheese.

Variations and Substitutions

• Chicken Thighs: Swap chicken breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for even juicier meat.
• Dairy-Free: Use full-fat coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free option.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure the chicken stock you use is gluten-free to keep the dish safe for gluten-sensitive eaters.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your creamy pepperoncini chicken over:

• Steamed white or brown rice
• Buttery mashed potatoes
• Pasta like fettuccine or penne
• Roasted or sautéed vegetables for a lighter option
• Crusty bread to mop up all that delicious sauce

Pair it with a fresh green salad for a balanced, satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
• Freezing: While you can freeze this dish, the cream sauce may separate upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Note: Nutrition may vary based on portion sizes and specific brands of ingredients used.

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 2g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use bone-in chicken?
Yes! Just adjust the cooking time, as bone-in chicken takes longer to cook through.

Can I make it spicier?
Definitely. Add extra pepperoncini or a splash of hot sauce to dial up the heat.

Is this dish gluten-free?
It can be! Just make sure to use gluten-free chicken stock.

Can I freeze the leftovers?
You can, but keep in mind that the creamy sauce may separate slightly when reheated from frozen.

Can I use dried pepperoncini?
Fresh or jarred pepperoncini are best for this recipe to ensure a bright flavor and tender texture.