Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet

Looking for a weeknight dinner that’s bursting with flavor but comes together in just 30 minutes? This Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet is your answer. Tender strips of chicken are seared to golden perfection, then simmered in a tangy, creamy Parmesan sauce with roasted red peppers and zesty pepperoncini. It’s rich, comforting, and perfectly balanced—without the fuss of a complicated recipe.

Whether you’re feeding a family, prepping meals ahead, or just craving a creamy, tangy chicken dinner, this skillet recipe hits all the right notes. Serve it over rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables for a full, satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in just 30 minutes for fast weeknight dinners
• Creamy, tangy, and full of bold flavors
• Minimal cleanup with everything cooked in one skillet
• Easily adjustable for spice level or dietary preferences
• Perfect for meal prep and leftovers

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• Chicken, cut into thin strips – Cooks quickly and stays tender
• Sea salt – Essential for seasoning and enhancing flavor
• Ground black pepper – Adds gentle heat and depth
• Butter – For searing the chicken and building flavor

For the Sauce

• White onion, diced – Adds sweetness and aroma
• Garlic, minced – Aromatic backbone of the sauce
• Chicken stock – Adds savory depth and helps deglaze the skillet
• Roasted red peppers, drained and sliced – Sweet, smoky flavor
• Heavy cream – Creates the rich, creamy base
• Parmesan cheese, shredded – Adds savory, cheesy richness
• Italian seasoning – Classic herb blend for flavor depth
• Pepperoncini peppers, drained – Tangy, slightly spicy kick

How to Make Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Cut the chicken into thin strips and season with salt and pepper. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips and cook until golden brown on all sides. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In the same skillet, add diced onion and garlic. Sauté until fragrant and golden, scraping up any browned bits from the chicken for extra flavor.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Pour in the chicken stock and add roasted red peppers. Let the liquid reduce by about half to intensify the flavor. Turn off the heat and slowly stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, whisking until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Finish the Dish

Return the skillet to medium heat. Add Italian seasoning and pepperoncini peppers, stirring well. Add the browned chicken back into the pan and simmer until fully cooked and the sauce reaches a creamy consistency.

Step 5: Serve

Serve hot over rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables. Garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh parsley if desired.

Tips for Success

• Use thin chicken strips for quick, even cooking.
• Reduce the stock slightly before adding cream to avoid a thin sauce.
• Adjust spice by using mild or hot pepperoncini based on preference.
• For a dairy-free version, substitute coconut cream for heavy cream.
• Vegetarian option: replace chicken with plant-based protein and use vegetable broth.

Equipment Needed

• Large skillet
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk or spoon for stirring

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Kick – Add extra pepperoncini or crushed red pepper flakes.
• Creamier Version – Stir in a little cream cheese or mascarpone for extra richness.
• Protein Swap – Use shrimp, turkey strips, or tofu for variation.
• Low-Carb – Serve over cauliflower rice instead of pasta or regular rice.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with steamed vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a simple side salad. A sprinkle of fresh parsley and extra Parmesan makes it look as good as it tastes.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, cook the chicken and sauce separately and combine when reheating.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

How do I make it dairy-free?
Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.

Can I adjust the spice level?
Absolutely! Use mild or hot pepperoncini and add crushed red pepper for more heat.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet is proof that quick, weeknight dinners can be both flavorful and indulgent. With tender chicken, a tangy kick from pepperoncini, and a luscious creamy sauce, it’s a dish the whole family will love. Serve it over your favorite sides and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home.

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