Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken

Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken is a vibrant and comforting skillet meal featuring tender chicken tenderloins, tangy pepperoncini, roasted red peppers, and a rich parmesan cream sauce. This zesty and savory dish is perfect for an easy yet flavor-packed dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You will appreciate the bold and unique flavor combination that this dish offers—spicy, tangy, creamy, and savory all at once. It is a quick, one-pan meal that feels indulgent but is simple enough for a busy weeknight. Whether served over rice, mashed potatoes, or with crusty bread, this hearty chicken skillet is sure to become a regular favorite at your table.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 lbs chicken tenderloins
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup pepperoncini peppers, sliced
• 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 2 tsp dried Italian seasoning
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken tenderloins and sear on both sides until golden brown and just cooked through, about 3–4 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add butter.
4. Sauté the onion until translucent, about 3 minutes.
5. Add the garlic and cook for 1 additional minute.
6. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let simmer for 2 minutes.
7. Add the heavy cream, Italian seasoning, pepperoncini peppers, roasted red peppers, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
8. Return the chicken tenderloins to the skillet and simmer on low for 5–6 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to slightly thicken.
9. Stir in the parmesan cheese until fully melted and the sauce becomes creamy.
10. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Calories: Approximately 520 kcal per serving

Variations

• Extra Spicy Version: Add more red pepper flakes or even diced jalapeños for an added kick.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of traditional sides.
• Vegetable Boost: Add spinach or mushrooms during the simmering stage for extra nutrition.
• Cheese Variation: Try replacing parmesan with Asiago or Romano cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Creamy Tomato Twist: Stir in a spoonful of tomato paste with the broth for a subtle tomato note in the sauce.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chicken gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed. Alternatively, microwave individual portions in 30-second intervals until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts, sliced into strips, if tenderloins are unavailable.

How spicy is this dish?

The spice level is mild to moderate; you can adjust the red pepper flakes to suit your preference.

Can I make this dairy-free?

For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream and a dairy-free parmesan alternative, though the flavor will vary slightly.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free. Ensure any sides you serve it with are also gluten-free.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can make the sauce and chicken ahead of time, then reheat gently before serving.

What can I serve with creamy pepperoncini chicken?

It pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

How do I thicken the sauce if it is too thin?

Allow the sauce to simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes or add a small slurry of cornstarch and water.

Can I freeze creamy pepperoncini chicken?

It is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Reheat gently to maintain the sauce’s texture.

What are pepperoncini peppers?

Pepperoncini are mildly spicy, tangy Italian peppers often pickled and used to add zest to dishes.

Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Yes, adding mushrooms, spinach, or artichoke hearts can make the dish even heartier and more flavorful.

Conclusion

Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken offers a delightful balance of creaminess, tanginess, and spice, making it a standout meal for any night of the week. With its rich parmesan sauce and bold flavors, it promises comfort without being overly heavy. Whether you serve it with a hearty starch or a fresh side, this skillet meal is sure to satisfy and impress.

Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken skillet is the perfect mix of tender chicken, zesty pepperoncini, sweet roasted red peppers, and a rich parmesan cream sauce. Bursting with bold flavors and comforting creaminess, this easy one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners! #PepperonciniChicken #CreamyChicken

• Author: Asma
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Dinner, Main Course
• Method: Skillet, Sautéing, Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

• 2 lbs chicken tenderloins

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp butter

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped

• 1/2 cup chicken broth

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 cup pepperoncini peppers, sliced

• 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, sliced

• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

• 2 tsp dried Italian seasoning

• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Add chicken tenderloins and sear on both sides until golden and just cooked through, about 3–4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt butter.

4. Sauté onion until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.

5. Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits. Let simmer for 2 minutes.

6. Add heavy cream, Italian seasoning, pepperoncini, roasted red peppers, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir well.

7. Return chicken to the skillet and simmer on low for 5–6 minutes to meld flavors and slightly thicken sauce.

8. Stir in parmesan cheese until fully melted and creamy.

9. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.

Notes

• For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

• Adjust red pepper flakes to your desired spice level.

• Leftovers make a great filling for wraps or sandwiches!