If you’re looking to elevate your weeknight meals with something creamy, zesty, and delightfully satisfying, this Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet is your answer. Packed with bold flavors, juicy chicken, and a luxurious sauce, it’s the perfect addition to your list of main dishes for dinner that please the whole family.
Ingredients for Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet
To make this mouthwatering skillet dish, you’ll need the following fresh and pantry ingredients:
For the Chicken:
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 to 2 lbs)
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 tablespoon butter
For the Sauce:
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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½ cup chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
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1 cup heavy cream
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⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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¾ cup sliced pepperoncini (drained, plus 1 tbsp brine)
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
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1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
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Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
Having the right kitchen tools on hand can make your cooking process easier and more efficient:
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Large skillet or sauté pan with lid
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Tongs or spatula
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Cutting board
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Chef’s knife
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Measuring cups and spoons
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Grater for Parmesan cheese
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Whisk or wooden spoon
Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions
Let’s dive into the preparation of this rich and satisfying chicken dish. It comes together in under 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Season both sides evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This will ensure every bite is flavorful.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and butter. Once melted and hot, add the chicken breasts. Sear them for about 4–5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temp of 165°F/75°C). Transfer to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low and add the minced garlic. Cook for 30–60 seconds until fragrant—be careful not to burn it.
Step 4: Deglaze the Pan
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to release the flavorful browned bits. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes.
Step 5: Make the Creamy Sauce
Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and pepperoncini slices along with 1 tablespoon of their brine. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
Step 6: Return Chicken to the Pan
Add the chicken back to the skillet and spoon the sauce over the top. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend and the chicken to reheat.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Turn off the heat and garnish with chopped parsley or basil for a fresh finish. Serve hot with your favorite side dish.
Tips for Making and Serving Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet
This dish is already flavorful and satisfying, but here are some extra tips to make it even better:
1. Don’t Skip the Searing
Searing the chicken locks in the juices and creates a delicious crust that adds texture and flavor to the final dish.
2. Use Pepperoncini Brine Wisely
Adding a tablespoon of the brine gives a subtle tangy kick to the sauce that cuts through the richness of the cream. If you like a stronger tang, feel free to add a bit more.
3. Customize the Heat
Red pepper flakes are optional, but if you like a bit of heat, they complement the pepperoncini perfectly. For a milder version, skip them altogether.
4. Perfect Pairings
This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, garlic rice, cauliflower mash, or even buttered noodles. If you’re keeping things low-carb, a side of sautéed spinach or steamed broccoli works beautifully.
5. Meal Prep Friendly
Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just reheat gently over low heat to maintain the sauce’s texture.
Nutritional Value (Approximate per Serving)
This recipe yields about 4 servings. Here is the approximate nutrition per serving:
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Calories: 460 kcal
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Protein: 38g
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Fat: 32g
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Saturated Fat: 14g
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Carbohydrates: 6g
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Sugar: 2g
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Fiber: 1g
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Sodium: 840mg
Note: Nutritional values can vary depending on exact ingredients and portion sizes.
Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Favorite Main Dishes for Dinner
When thinking about main dishes for dinner, you want something that checks all the boxes—comforting, quick, flavorful, and versatile. This Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet delivers on all fronts:
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It’s a one-pan wonder, reducing clean-up and simplifying your cooking routine.
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The creamy and tangy sauce brings bold character without overpowering the dish.
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It’s easily adjustable to suit dietary preferences—low-carb, gluten-free, and protein-rich.
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It feels fancy enough for entertaining but is easy enough for weeknights.
Whether you’re hosting guests or just cooking for yourself, this is the kind of recipe that becomes a regular in your meal rotation.
Make It Tonight: Creamy, Tangy, and Comforting
If you’re tired of the same old main dishes for dinner, it’s time to shake things up. This Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet offers a restaurant-quality meal that’s simple to prepare and full of unique flavor. The balance of creamy richness and peppery tang is irresistible—and once you try it, you’ll be craving it again and again.