Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet

Bring a burst of tangy, creamy flavor to your kitchen with this Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet. This one-pan wonder combines tender, golden-brown chicken with a velvety sauce made from heavy cream, garlic, and sliced pepperoncini peppers. It is an elegant yet simple meal that transforms basic staples into a gourmet experience in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

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Whether you are looking for a new way to prepare chicken thighs or simply need a reliable dish that the whole family will enjoy, this recipe delivers consistent results. The pepperoncini peppers provide a gentle heat and a vinegar-based brightness that cuts through the richness of the sauce, ensuring every bite is balanced and satisfying.

Ingredients

• Chicken: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• For Cooking: 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Sauce: 1 cup sliced pepperoncini (fresh or jarred, drained), 3 cloves garlic (minced), 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half), 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• Seasoning: Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1

Pat the chicken dry and season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.

Step 2

Heat olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat.

Step 3

Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6–7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 4

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium-low. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 5

Add sliced pepperoncini and sauté for 2–3 minutes.

Step 6

Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 7

Return the chicken and any juices to the skillet. Simmer for another 2–3 minutes, spooning sauce over the chicken until everything is heated through.

Step 8

Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 9

Serve hot, garnished with extra pepperoncini if desired.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For the best results, ensure the chicken is very dry before cooking to achieve a golden sear. Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. For a fresh finish, stir in a handful of chopped fresh parsley or basil just before serving.

Varianten und Anpassungen

To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream, though this will slightly alter the flavor profile. If you prefer an extra tangy sauce, stir in a splash of the pepperoncini brine along with the chicken broth. For a lighter version, half-and-half can be used instead of heavy cream.

Serviervorschläge

This creamy chicken pairs excellently with fluffy white rice or al dente pasta to soak up the sauce. For a lower-carb option, serve it alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables.

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Enjoy this comforting and flavorful skillet meal that brings a sophisticated taste to your table with minimal effort. It is a reliable favorite that proves one-pan cooking can be both simple and incredibly delicious.

Recipe FAQs

→ What cut of chicken works best for this dish?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts both work well; thighs tend to stay more tender and juicy.

→ Can I make a dairy-free version?

Yes, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative, though the flavor will be slightly different.

→ How do I adjust the sauce thickness?

Simmer the sauce longer to thicken or add a bit more broth if it gets too thick during cooking.

→ What can I serve alongside this chicken skillet?

This pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.

→ Is it possible to add more heat to the dish?

Yes, adding a splash of the pepperoncini brine or extra sliced pepperoncini boosts the tangy spiciness.