Bold, creamy, tangy, and irresistibly comforting — Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet is the kind of dinner that turns an ordinary evening into something special. This one-pan recipe combines juicy seared chicken with a rich cream sauce and the signature zip of pepperoncini peppers. It’s fast enough for weeknights, yet impressive enough to serve guests, making it a true kitchen hero.
If you love recipes that deliver big flavor with minimal effort, this Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet will quickly become a favorite in your rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet
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Made in one skillet for easy cleanup
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Perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors
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Ready in under 40 minutes
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Restaurant-quality taste with simple ingredients
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Pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread
This dish is comfort food with personality — rich without being heavy and bold without overpowering the chicken.
Ingredients for Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet
Main Ingredients
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2 lbs (900 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or chicken breasts
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 tablespoon butter
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup chicken broth
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1 cup heavy cream
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½ cup sliced pepperoncini peppers (mild or hot, depending on preference)
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¼ cup pepperoncini brine (from the jar)
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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½ teaspoon smoked paprika
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
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¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Optional Flavor Boosters
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½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
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1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
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1 tablespoon cream cheese (for extra richness)
Garnish (Optional)
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Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
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Extra pepperoncini slices
Required Kitchen Tools
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Large heavy-bottomed skillet (cast iron or stainless steel preferred)
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Sharp knife
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Cutting board
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Measuring cups and spoons
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Wooden spoon or spatula
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Tongs
No fancy equipment needed — this Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet is designed for everyday kitchens.
Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning. Proper seasoning at this stage ensures the chicken stays flavorful even after simmering in the sauce.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken in a single layer.
Sear for 4–5 minutes per side until deeply golden brown. Do not overcrowd the pan — work in batches if necessary.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. This step builds the flavor foundation for your Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
Lower the heat to medium. Add minced garlic to the same skillet and sauté for 30–60 seconds until fragrant. Stir constantly to prevent burning.
Step 4: Deglaze the Pan
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up the browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. These bits are pure flavor and essential to a rich sauce.
Let the broth simmer for 2–3 minutes to slightly reduce.
Step 5: Build the Creamy Sauce
Add heavy cream, pepperoncini slices, and pepperoncini brine to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
If using Dijon mustard, Parmesan, or cream cheese, add them now and whisk gently until smooth.
Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 3–5 minutes until it begins to thicken.
Step 6: Return the Chicken
Nestle the seared chicken back into the skillet, spooning sauce over each piece. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10–12 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Step 7: Final Touches
Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed. Add crushed red pepper flakes for heat or extra cream for richness.
Garnish with fresh herbs and more pepperoncini if desired.
Your Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet is now ready to serve.
Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet
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Use chicken thighs for maximum juiciness and flavor
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Do not rush the sear — color equals flavor
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Pepperoncini brine is key: it balances the cream with acidity
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If sauce thickens too much, add a splash of broth
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Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to deepen flavors
Serving Suggestions
This Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet is incredibly versatile. Serve it with:
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Buttered pasta or fettuccine
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Creamy mashed potatoes
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Steamed rice or risotto
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Crusty artisan bread
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Roasted vegetables or green beans
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A crisp green salad for balance
Variations to Try
Low-Carb Version
Serve over cauliflower mash or zucchini noodles.
Extra Cheesy
Add shredded mozzarella or provolone for a melty finish.
Spicy Kick
Use hot pepperoncini and increase crushed red pepper flakes.
Lemon Herb Twist
Add lemon zest and fresh thyme for brightness.
Storage and Reheating
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Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
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Reheating: Warm gently over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth
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Freezing: Not recommended, as cream-based sauces may separate
Approximate Nutritional Value (Per Serving)
(Based on 6 servings; values are estimates)
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Calories: ~520 kcal
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Protein: ~38 g
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Fat: ~36 g
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Saturated Fat: ~17 g
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Carbohydrates: ~8 g
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Sugar: ~2 g
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Sodium: ~780 mg
This Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet is rich and satisfying, making it ideal for balanced portions paired with lighter sides.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is pepperoncini spicy?
Pepperoncini peppers are generally mild with a tangy flavor. Heat levels vary by brand.
Can I use chicken breasts?
Yes, but be careful not to overcook them. Reduce simmer time slightly.
Can I make this dairy-free?
You can substitute coconut cream, but flavor will change.
Final Thoughts
Few dishes deliver comfort, elegance, and bold flavor as effortlessly as Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet. From the golden-seared chicken to the velvety, tangy sauce, every bite is deeply satisfying. It’s a recipe that feels indulgent yet approachable — perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners.
If you’re looking for a reliable, crowd-pleasing skillet meal that’s easy to prepare and impossible to forget, this Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet deserves a permanent place in your recipe collection.
