If you’re looking for a bold, tangy, and creamy dinner that comes together in one pan, Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet is about to become your new weeknight favorite. This easy skillet chicken recipe features tender chicken breast cubes simmered with chopped pepperoncini peppers, garlic, onion, Italian seasoning, and a splash of cream for richness. The result is a savory, slightly spicy, and irresistibly creamy dish that pairs beautifully with pasta or rice.
Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this pepperoncini chicken skillet recipe delivers big flavor with minimal cleanup.
Why You’ll Love This Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet Recipe
This one-pan chicken dinner is packed with flavor and convenience.
- ✔️ One skillet = easy cleanup
- ✔️ Tangy pepperoncini flavor
- ✔️ Creamy, savory sauce
- ✔️ Ready in about 30–35 minutes
- ✔️ Perfect for pasta or rice
The combination of briny pepperoncini juice and heavy cream creates a balanced sauce that’s both bright and comforting.
Ingredients for Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet
Here’s everything you need to make this creamy pepperoncini chicken.
Chicken
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
Pepperoncini Peppers
- 1 (16-ounce) jar pepperoncini peppers, drained
- Reserve 1/4 cup of the juice
- Roughly chopped
Aromatics
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Base & Sauce
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Optional for Serving
- Cooked pasta (penne or rotini)
- Steamed rice
What Makes Pepperoncini Chicken So Flavorful?
The magic of this pepperoncini chicken skillet comes from layering flavors.
Pepperoncini Peppers
They’re tangy, slightly sweet, and mildly spicy.
Reserved Pepper Juice
Adds acidity that balances the richness of cream.
Italian Seasoning
Brings herbal depth.
Heavy Cream
Smooths out the tangy flavors into a velvety sauce.
The result is creamy chicken with just the right amount of kick.
How to Make Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet (Step-by-Step)
Follow these beginner-friendly steps for perfect results.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat chicken cubes dry with paper towels.
Season with:
- Salt
- Black pepper
Drying the chicken helps achieve better browning.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken in a single layer.
- Cook for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and cooked through.
Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
This step builds flavor through caramelization.
Step 3: Cook the Aromatics
In the same skillet:
- Add chopped onion.
- Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Stir frequently to avoid burning the garlic.
Step 4: Add Pepperoncini and Seasoning
Stir in:
- Chopped pepperoncini peppers
- Italian seasoning
- Red pepper flakes (if using)
Cook for 2 minutes to release flavors.
Step 5: Deglaze the Pan
Pour in:
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup reserved pepperoncini juice
Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
These bits add deep flavor to the sauce.
Step 6: Create the Creamy Sauce
- Reduce heat to medium-low.
- Stir in heavy cream.
- Simmer gently for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Avoid boiling to prevent curdling.
Step 7: Return the Chicken
Add cooked chicken back to the skillet.
Simmer for another 3–4 minutes until everything is heated through.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley.
Serve over pasta or rice for a complete meal.
Pro Tips for the Best Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet
Use Low-Sodium Broth
Pepperoncini juice adds saltiness, so control sodium levels.
Don’t Overcook the Chicken
Chicken breast can dry out if cooked too long.
Adjust Heat Level
Add more red pepper flakes if you like extra spice.
Let the Sauce Thicken Naturally
Simmer gently for best consistency.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy pepperoncini chicken pairs beautifully with:
- Penne pasta
- Rotini
- White rice
- Brown rice
- Mashed potatoes
- Crusty bread
For a lighter option, serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
Variations and Customizations
Make It Low-Carb
Serve over cauliflower rice or steamed vegetables.
Add Spinach
Stir in fresh spinach during the final minutes of cooking.
Make It Cheesy
Add 1/2 cup grated Parmesan for extra richness.
Try Chicken Thighs
Boneless skinless thighs add even more juiciness.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerator
Store in airtight container up to 4 days.
Reheating
Reheat gently over low heat. Add a splash of broth if sauce thickens too much.
Freezing
Freeze without pasta for up to 2 months.
Nutritional Overview (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 400–500
- Protein: 35–40g
- Carbohydrates: 8–15g (without pasta)
- Fat: 25–30g
Values vary based on serving size and sides.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ❌ Skipping the browning step
- ❌ Cooking cream on high heat
- ❌ Not tasting before adding extra salt
- ❌ Overcrowding the pan
Avoiding these ensures perfectly cooked chicken and creamy sauce.
Why This Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet Works
This recipe balances:
- Tangy acidity from pepperoncini
- Creamy richness from heavy cream
- Savory depth from broth and garlic
- Herbal notes from Italian seasoning
It’s bold yet comforting — a perfect combination for a satisfying dinner.
Frequently Asked Questions
How spicy is pepperoncini chicken skillet?
Pepperoncini peppers are generally mild. The dish has tang rather than intense heat. Add red pepper flakes for more spice.
Can I make pepperoncini chicken without heavy cream?
Yes. Substitute half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk, though the flavor will vary slightly.
What can I serve with creamy pepperoncini chicken?
It pairs well with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Can I prepare pepperoncini chicken skillet ahead of time?
Yes! It reheats well and flavors deepen after a day in the refrigerator.
Can I use jarred sliced pepperoncini instead of whole?
Absolutely. Just drain them and reserve some juice as directed.
Perfect for Busy Weeknights
Pepperoncini chicken skillet is ideal when you need:
- A quick 30-minute dinner
- Minimal cleanup
- Bold flavor
- A family-friendly meal
It’s simple enough for weeknights yet flavorful enough for entertaining.
Final Thoughts on Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet
Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet is creamy, tangy, and packed with savory flavor — all made in one pan. With tender chicken, briny peppers, and a velvety sauce, this dish strikes the perfect balance between comfort food and bold Mediterranean-inspired flavor.
Whether you serve it over pasta, rice, or enjoy it on its own, this recipe is guaranteed to become a regular in your dinner rotation.
Now it’s your turn! Grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and enjoy this creamy pepperoncini chicken tonight. Save this recipe, share it with friends, and bring bold flavor to your table with ease.
