Looking for a quick, delicious, and satisfying dinner option? The Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet is the perfect solution! This dish combines tender chicken breasts with tangy pepperoncini peppers in a creamy sauce, creating a delightful balance of flavors. It’s easy to make, requires minimal cleanup, and is sure to impress your family or guests. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients List

To prepare the Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet, you will need the following ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup pepperoncini peppers (jarred, sliced)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving, optional)

Substitutions

• Chicken: Substitute with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier option.
• Heavy Cream: Use half-and-half or coconut cream for a lighter version.
• Pepperoncini: Substitute with banana peppers or jalapeños for a different flavor profile.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder on both sides.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and sear for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the chicken broth and scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This adds flavor to your sauce. Stir in the heavy cream, sliced pepperoncini, and Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, coating them in the creamy pepperoncini sauce. Let them simmer in the sauce for an additional 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 5: Serve

Once the chicken is heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving of the Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet (approximately 1 chicken breast with sauce):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	400
Protein	35g
Carbohydrates	6g
Dietary Fiber	1g
Total Fat	28g
Saturated Fat	16g
Sodium	600mg

This dish is rich in protein and flavor, making it a satisfying meal option.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

To make the Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet even healthier, consider these modifications:

• Use Low-Fat Dairy: Substitute heavy cream with low-fat yogurt or a dairy-free alternative.
• Add Vegetables: Incorporate spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added nutrients and fiber.
• Reduce Sodium: Opt for low-sodium chicken broth to lower the overall sodium content.

Serving Suggestions

The Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet is versatile and can be served in various ways:

• With Rice or Quinoa: Serve over cooked rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
• With Pasta: Toss with cooked pasta for a creamy pepperoncini chicken pasta dish.
• With Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad for a light and balanced meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing the Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet, keep these common pitfalls in mind:

• Overcooking the Chicken: Be careful not to overcook the chicken; it can become dry. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
• Skipping the Deglazing Step: Don’t skip scraping the bottom of the pan; it adds essential flavor to the sauce.
• Not Simmering Long Enough: Allow the chicken to simmer in the sauce for a few minutes to absorb the flavors fully.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

If you have leftovers, here’s how to store them properly:

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the sauce from separating.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Conclusion

The Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet is a quick and flavorful dish that is perfect for any weeknight dinner. With its creamy sauce and tangy pepperoncini, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. We invite you to try this recipe and share your thoughts in the comments below. Don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious recipes and updates!

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and reheat them when ready to serve.

What can I use instead of chicken?

You can use turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well and can be easily reheated for quick meals throughout the week.