Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet Recipe

If you’re looking for a simple yet flavorful meal that will satisfy your taste buds, the Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet is the perfect dish to try. This recipe combines the savory goodness of boneless chicken breasts with a creamy sauce made from chicken broth, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and the tangy flavor of pepperoncini peppers. It’s an easy-to-make dish that delivers a bold punch of flavor, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients

To make this creamy pepperoncini chicken skillet, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup jarred pepperoncini peppers, sliced
• 2 tbsp pepperoncini juice (from the jar)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions and Preparation Method

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious creamy pepperoncini chicken skillet:

1. Cook the Chicken

Begin by preparing your chicken breasts. Season the chicken with salt and black pepper on both sides. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts to the skillet and sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.

Once the chicken is done, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. This will ensure the chicken stays juicy while you prepare the sauce.

2. Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, you will use the leftover juices and flavors from the chicken. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté it for about 1 minute, or until it becomes fragrant. Be sure to keep an eye on the garlic to prevent it from burning, as it can become bitter if overcooked.

3. Make the Sauce

Next, it’s time to make the flavorful creamy sauce. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine the ingredients. Add the sliced pepperoncini peppers and their juice from the jar, along with the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Stir everything together until the cheese begins to melt and the sauce thickens slightly.

Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together. The creaminess of the sauce, combined with the tanginess from the pepperoncini peppers, will create a rich, mouth-watering flavor profile.

4. Simmer the Chicken

Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, placing them in the sauce. Spoon some of the sauce over the chicken to ensure it’s evenly coated. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the skillet. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for about 8-10 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The sauce will continue to thicken during this time.

5. Garnish and Serve

Once the chicken is cooked through, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve your creamy pepperoncini chicken skillet with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. The creamy sauce pairs wonderfully with these sides and will make every bite even more satisfying.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs for the chicken breasts in this recipe. Chicken thighs are a bit more flavorful and tender, and they will work perfectly with the creamy sauce.

What if I don’t have pepperoncini peppers?

If you can’t find pepperoncini peppers or prefer a milder flavor, you can substitute them with banana peppers or pickled jalapeños. Just keep in mind that these alternatives will provide a slightly different flavor profile.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this creamy pepperoncini chicken skillet ahead of time. After cooking the chicken and making the sauce, let the dish cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the dish on the stove over low heat until it’s warmed through.

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 swap the Parmesan cheese with a dairy-free cheese option or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, this dish can be frozen. To do so, allow the chicken and sauce to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and heat it on the stove over low heat.

Conclusion

The creamy pepperoncini chicken skillet is a dish that combines simple ingredients to create an incredibly flavorful meal. The creamy sauce, with the tangy bite of pepperoncini peppers, complements the tender, juicy chicken beautifully. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or impressing guests, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. With just a few ingredients and a short cooking time, you can enjoy a comforting and satisfying meal that’s packed with flavor. Try it today and enjoy the perfect balance of creamy, savory, and tangy goodness in every bite!

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