If you’re on the hunt for a dish that’s bursting with flavor, comforting textures, and just the right amount of tang, this Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Imagine juicy slices of tender chicken bathed in a luscious, creamy sauce, infused with the bright kick of pepperoncini peppers and rounded out by sweet bell peppers and a cheesy Parmesan finish. It’s the kind of meal that feels fancy enough for guests but is easy enough for a weeknight dinner, blending bold flavors and smooth creaminess in the best possible way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients that pack a punch is key to nailing this recipe. Each one plays an important role, whether it’s adding a crisp bite, zesty tang, or rich depth, so getting these basics right will set you up for creamy, flavorful success.
- Red bell pepper: Thinly sliced for a sweet, vibrant crunch that brightens the dish.
- Yellow onion: Diced to add subtle sweetness and a soft texture that complements the chicken.
- Pepperoncini peppers: Thin rings bring tangy zest and a slight heat that awakens the palate.
- Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated for a nutty, savory richness that melts seamlessly into the cream sauce.
- Heavy cream: The secret to the luscious, velvety sauce that coats every bite.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Sliced thin for quick, even cooking and tender results.
- Kosher salt: To season perfectly and enhance all the flavors.
- Freshly ground black pepper: Adds just the right amount of spice and depth.
- Olive oil: For searing chicken and softening vegetables with a subtle fruity note.
- Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings a fragrant, rustic Italian touch.
- Low-sodium chicken broth: Creates a savory base while keeping the sauce light and balanced.
How to Make Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables and Cheese
Start by slicing the red bell pepper into thin strips, dicing the onion finely, and slicing the pepperoncini peppers into delicate rings. Grate the Parmesan cheese finely to ensure it melts perfectly into the sauce later, offering that signature creamy texture and cheesy depth you’re aiming for.
Step 2: Slice and Season the Chicken
Next, slice your chicken breasts into half-inch thick pieces; this helps them cook quickly and stay tender. Toss the slices with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to make sure every bite is well-seasoned before hitting the pan.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a skillet until it’s shimmering, then add half the chicken slices, giving them space to brown nicely without crowding. Cook until golden and cooked through, flipping as needed, then set aside and repeat with the remaining chicken. This step creates that beautiful caramelized flavor that forms the foundation of your dish.
Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables
Use the same skillet and add a bit more olive oil to soften the red peppers and onions along with the Italian seasoning and salt. Let them cook just long enough to start caramelizing, which amps up their natural sweetness and adds complexity to the sauce.
Step 5: Deglaze with Chicken Broth
Pour in the chicken broth to pick up those flavorful browned bits stuck to the pan. This step deepens the sauce and adds moisture, creating a tasty backdrop for the creamy elements to come.
Step 6: Add the Cream and Cheese
Stir in the Parmesan cheese and heavy cream, then bring everything to a gentle simmer. As the sauce thickens and the peppers soften, those cozy creamy flavors meld beautifully with the tangy brightness, making the dish irresistibly delicious.
Step 7: Combine Everything
Return your cooked chicken and the flavorful juices back into the skillet, add the sliced pepperoncini peppers, and toss everything together. This final mix ensures every piece of chicken gets fully coated in that creamy, tangy sauce packed with deliciousness.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Dish it up hot with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan if you like for a cheesy finish. Your Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Recipe is ready to delight everyone at your table with its vibrant flavors and indulgent texture.
How to Serve Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A handful of freshly chopped parsley or extra Parmesan cheese sprinkled on top adds a pop of color and an extra layer of flavor. A lemon wedge on the side can also brighten the dish and balance the richness if you like.
Side Dishes
This creamy pepperoncini chicken pairs wonderfully with simple sides like steamed rice, buttery mashed potatoes, or even creamy polenta to soak up all the sauce. Roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad make excellent companions, keeping the meal balanced and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the creamy pepperoncini chicken over cooked pasta or even inside a warm pita with some fresh greens for a handheld meal. Alternatively, layering it over garlic bread can make for a rustic, crowd-pleasing presentation that’s perfect for casual dinners.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover creamy pepperoncini chicken keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it completely before storing to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. When freezing, leave out fresh garnishes like parsley or lemon to add after reheating for freshness.
Reheating
Reheat gently over low heat on the stove or in the microwave to prevent the cream sauce from breaking. Adding a splash of chicken broth or cream while warming helps keep the sauce smooth and luscious.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are flavorful and juicy, which makes them a great option. Just keep in mind they might take a couple of minutes longer to cook through than the sliced breasts.
How spicy is this recipe from the pepperoncini peppers?
Pepperoncini peppers are mildly tangy with only a gentle heat, so this dish isn’t very spicy. If you want more heat, you can add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or some sliced jalapeños.
Can I substitute the heavy cream with something lighter?
You can try using half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream cheese for a lighter sauce, but it won’t be as rich and creamy as with heavy cream. Be gentle when heating to avoid curdling.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it is naturally gluten-free as long as your chicken broth and Italian seasoning are gluten-free. Always good to double-check labels if you’re cooking for someone with gluten sensitivities.
Can I make this recipe in advance for meal prep?
Definitely! It reheats very well and makes a delicious meal prep option. Just keep sides separate if you’re prepping for several days to keep everything tasting fresh.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Recipe is the perfect blend of tangy, savory, and creamy that will make dinner feel like a special occasion any night of the week. I can’t recommend it enough for those moments when you want comforting food that’s simple to make but endlessly satisfying. Give it a try and watch it quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection!
Print
Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 11 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 31 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken is a flavorful, tangy, and creamy skillet dish featuring tender chicken breasts cooked with bell peppers, onions, pepperoncini peppers, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce. It’s a quick and easy recipe perfect for weeknight dinners, delivering a delightful balance of heat and creaminess in every bite.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasonings
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 3), cut into 1/2-inch-thick slices
- 1 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt, divided
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
Vegetables
- 1 medium red bell pepper, thinly sliced (about 1 cup)
- 1/2 medium yellow onion, diced (about 3/4 cup)
- 10 whole pepperoncini peppers, thinly sliced into rings (about 1/2 cup) or 1/2 cup sliced pepperoncini
Other Ingredients
- 1 ounce Parmesan cheese, finely grated (about 1/2 cup freshly grated or 1/3 cup store-bought), plus more for serving
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables and cheese: Thinly slice the red bell pepper and dice the yellow onion. Thinly slice the pepperoncini peppers into rings. Finely grate the Parmesan cheese using the small holes of a box grater or use pre-grated Parmesan.
- Slice and season the chicken: Cut the chicken breasts across the grain into 1/2-inch-thick slices. Place in a large bowl, season with 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and toss to coat evenly.
- Cook the chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add half of the chicken slices in a single layer and cook until deeply browned and cooked through, about 6 minutes total, flipping as needed. Transfer cooked chicken to a plate. Repeat cooking with remaining chicken using the same process.
- Sauté vegetables: In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add the sliced bell pepper, diced onion, remaining 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, and Italian seasoning. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to brown, about 2 minutes.
- Add chicken broth: Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, scraping up browned bits from the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon. Cook until the broth is reduced by half, approximately 2 minutes.
- Create the creamy sauce: Add the grated Parmesan cheese and heavy cream to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook until the sauce thickens slightly and the peppers become tender, about 3 minutes.
- Combine chicken and sauce: Return the cooked chicken and any juices accumulated on the plate back into the skillet. Add the sliced pepperoncini peppers and toss everything to coat the chicken evenly with the creamy sauce.
- Serve: Serve the creamy pepperoncini chicken hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, add some of the pepperoncini juice to the sauce.
- Serve over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
- You can substitute chicken thighs for a juicier result, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and gently reheated on the stovetop.
