If you’re craving a meal that brings together creamy comfort with tangy zip and a hint of spice, this Flavorful Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet is about to become your weeknight favorite. Tender, pan-seared chicken breasts are nestled in a luscious garlic cream sauce that’s generously studded with sliced pepperoncini peppers—each bite perfectly balanced between heat and richness.

This one-pan wonder delivers bold flavor without a ton of effort. It’s a skillet dish that feels indulgent but comes together quickly enough for a busy dinner. With golden chicken and bright pops of acidity from the peppers, it’s a dish that wakes up your taste buds and still feels like comfort food at heart.

Why You’ll Love This Flavorful Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet

This dish combines everything you want in a dinner: minimal cleanup, maximum flavor, and a gorgeous presentation. The tangy pepperoncinis add zip that cuts through the rich, creamy sauce, while the seared chicken keeps it hearty and satisfying. It also pairs well with rice, pasta, or even mashed potatoes, making it endlessly versatile.

What Kind of Pepperoncinis Should I Use?

Mild, jarred pepperoncini peppers are ideal for this dish. Look for the sliced kind packed in vinegar—they’re slightly sweet, tangy, and not too spicy, which makes them perfect for infusing the cream sauce with flavor without overwhelming the dish.

Ingredients for the Flavorful Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet

Chicken Breasts: The star protein, seared for flavor and simmered until juicy.

Olive Oil: Helps achieve that golden crust on the chicken.

Butter: Adds richness to the base of the sauce.

Garlic: Minced garlic builds aromatic depth in the creamy sauce.

Chicken Broth: Provides a savory base and helps deglaze the pan.

Heavy Cream: Brings silkiness and body to the sauce.

Parmesan Cheese: Melts into the cream for added umami and thickness.

Sliced Pepperoncinis: These add zingy, tangy brightness to every bite.

Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning the chicken and sauce.

Chopped Parsley: For a fresh, colorful garnish.

How To Make the Flavorful Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Season 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add 1 tablespoon butter and 3 cloves minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Deglaze and Build the Sauce

Pour in 1/2 cup chicken broth to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits. Stir in 3/4 cup heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Stir in Cheese and Pepperoncinis

Add 1/3 cup grated Parmesan and stir until melted. Fold in 1/2 cup sliced pepperoncinis and let the sauce thicken slightly.

Step 5: Return Chicken to Skillet

Return the seared chicken to the skillet and spoon sauce over top. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until everything is warmed through and flavors meld.

Step 6: Finish and Garnish

Top with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Serving Suggestions for Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken

This recipe serves 4 people generously. It pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, al dente pasta, or fluffy white rice to soak up the luscious sauce. Add a side of roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad to balance the richness.

How To Store Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken

Let leftovers cool completely before storing. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce. Freezing is not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate upon thawing.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely. Boneless, skinless thighs are a great alternative and offer even more flavor. Just ensure they’re cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F.

2. Is this dish spicy?
The pepperoncinis bring a mild heat, but the cream sauce balances it out beautifully. If you’re sensitive to spice, reduce the amount to 1/4 cup.

3. Can I make this dairy-free?
You can substitute coconut cream for the heavy cream and use a dairy-free parmesan alternative. However, the flavor will change slightly.

4. What can I use instead of pepperoncinis?
If you can’t find pepperoncinis, try mild banana peppers or even capers for a briny touch.

5. How can I make the sauce thicker?
Simmer the sauce a few minutes longer or add 1 teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with a splash of water.

Want More Chicken Skillet Ideas?

If you love this creamy, tangy skillet chicken, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try it with pasta or rice? Maybe added extra cheese? I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

More recipes like this are shared daily on my Pinterest @MadForMeals!

Flavorful Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet

Author: Mia McKenny
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Instructions

1. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

2. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add butter. Stir in garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

3. Deglaze the pan with chicken broth, scraping any browned bits from the bottom.

4. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

5. Add grated Parmesan and whisk until melted.

6. Fold in sliced pepperoncini peppers and let the sauce thicken slightly.

7. Return chicken to the skillet and spoon sauce over the top. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until heated through.

8. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

Make sure to sear the chicken well for deeper flavor in the sauce.

Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest melt.

Stir the sauce constantly while simmering to prevent it from breaking.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
Calories: 435
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 760mg
Fat: 27g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 38g
Cholesterol: 145mg

Keywords: creamy chicken skillet, pepperoncini chicken, one pan chicken, skillet chicken recipe