Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet

There’s something magical about a recipe that brings the whole family to the table with smiles on their faces. That’s exactly how this Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet came to life in my kitchen. I first made this dish on a busy weeknight, craving something hearty yet different. With just a glance at my pantry and fridge, I realized I had the ingredients for a creamy, tangy, and flavorful chicken dish that could be ready in under an hour.

What makes this recipe so special is its versatility. It’s fancy enough to serve for a small dinner party, but quick and simple enough for any weeknight dinner. The pepperoncini peppers are the star here, adding a subtle heat and tanginess that perfectly balances the rich, creamy sauce. My kids love it because the sauce pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, or even crusty bread. And let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like watching my husband go back for seconds (and sometimes thirds!).

I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve made this recipe since that first attempt. Each time, it gets a little better with small tweaks, though it’s pretty perfect as is. The best part? The ingredients are easy to find, and the preparation is straightforward, making it an ideal choice for busy moms like me who love putting delicious meals on the table without spending hours in the kitchen.

Now that you’re hooked, let’s dive into everything you need to make this comforting and irresistible Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet.

Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe, providing extra juiciness and flavor. Just ensure they’re cooked through to 165°F.

What can I substitute for pepperoncini peppers?
If you’re out of pepperoncinis, mild banana peppers or even diced green chiles can work as substitutes, though the flavor will differ slightly.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can! Substitute coconut cream or a dairy-free heavy cream alternative for the heavy cream.

What side dishes go best with this chicken?
This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, buttery mashed potatoes, or a light green salad.

How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to avoid curdling the sauce.

What You Need to Make Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet

Chicken breasts (4 medium-sized)

Salt and pepper to taste

Olive oil (2 tablespoons)

Butter (2 tablespoons)

Onion (1 small, finely chopped)

Garlic (3 cloves, minced)

Pepperoncini peppers (1/3 cup, sliced)

Chicken broth (1 cup)

Heavy cream (1 cup)

Dijon mustard (1 tablespoon)

Red bell pepper (1 small, diced)

Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Special equipment: A large skillet with a lid.

How to Make Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet

Season and sear the chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken on both sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

Prepare the sauce base: In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté onions until soft and translucent. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add flavor: Stir in pepperoncini peppers and red bell pepper. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.

Simmer the chicken: Return the chicken breasts to the skillet. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked.

Finish the sauce: Remove the chicken again and stir in the heavy cream and Dijon mustard. Let the sauce simmer and thicken for about 5 minutes. Return the chicken to the skillet to coat with sauce.

Serve and garnish: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with your favorite sides.

Tips for Making the Best Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for perfect doneness.

For a thicker sauce, mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with water and stir it into the sauce while it simmers.

Adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer pepperoncini peppers.

If you prefer a smoky flavor, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika to the sauce.

Reader Reviews

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “This recipe is amazing! My kids gobbled it up, and my husband asked when I’d make it again. It’s a winner in our house!” – Laura G.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Loved the flavor, but I think I’ll add more pepperoncinis next time for extra zing!” – Michelle T.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Perfect for a busy weeknight. It came together so quickly, and the creamy sauce is divine!” – Amanda P.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Great recipe! I served it with garlic mashed potatoes, and it was a hit. Next time, I’ll try it with chicken thighs.” – Kevin L.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “This has become a regular in our rotation. So easy and flavorful!” – Sarah W.

Printable Recipe

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If You Enjoyed This Recipe, Please Share!

Cooking is all about sharing love and joy with the people around us. If you tried this Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet and loved it, share the recipe with your friends and family! Snap a picture, post it on social media, and tag me. I’d love to see your creations and hear your thoughts. Together, we can spread the magic of comforting home-cooked meals!