Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet Recipe – Tangy One-Pan Dinner with Cream Cheese & Garlic
This Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet is a bold and comforting one-pan dinner that’s bursting with flavor. Tender chicken breasts are simmered in a rich, tangy sauce made with cream cheese, garlic, and briny pepperoncinis, creating a creamy blend of heat and zest. It’s perfect served over mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta, and comes together quickly for busy weeknights. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this skillet meal is a delicious twist on classic comfort food.
Equipment
- Large skillet (preferably cast iron or stainless steel)
- Tongs or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Whisk
- Instant-read thermometer (optional)
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ medium onion, diced
- ½ cup chicken stock
- ½ cup sliced roasted red peppers (optional)
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup sliced pepperoncini peppers
- 2 tbsp pepperoncini juice
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: spinach, mushrooms, chili flakes, parsley, lemon zest
Instructions
- Sear Chicken: Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Melt butter in skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken 4–5 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: Reduce heat to medium. Add garlic and onion. Cook until fragrant and translucent.
- Deglaze & Reduce: Add chicken stock and roasted red peppers. Scrape browned bits and simmer until reduced by half.
- Make Sauce: Remove from heat. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan. Whisk until smooth.
- Combine & Simmer: Return chicken to skillet. Add pepperoncini slices and juice. Simmer on low until chicken reaches 165°F and sauce thickens.
- Rest & Serve: Let sauce rest 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley, lemon zest, or extra Parmesan.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best melt and flavor.
- Don’t skip the pepperoncini juice—it’s key to the dish’s signature tang.
- For dairy-free: substitute coconut cream and nutritional yeast.
- For keto: serve over cauliflower rice or steamed greens.
- Make ahead: prepare base and add cream when reheating.
- Optional add-ins: spinach, mushrooms, jalapeños, or chili flakes for heat.