Name: Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs chicken, cut into thin strips; 1 tsp sea salt; 1 tsp ground pepper; 1 white onion, diced; 2 tbsp garlic, diced; ½ cup roasted red pepper, drained and sliced; ½ cup pepperoncini peppers, drained (sliced, rings, or whole); 2 tbsp butter; ½ cup chicken stock; 1 cup heavy cream; ½ cup Parmesan cheese, shredded; 1 tbsp Italian seasoning

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Introduction

This Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet is a deliciously tangy and comforting dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners. With tender chicken strips cooked in a rich, cheesy sauce and a hint of zesty pepperoncini, it’s a meal that comes together quickly and satisfies every time.

The image shows a close-up of several golden brown chicken breasts cooking in a creamy light yellow sauce inside a black cast iron pan. The chicken pieces are spread evenly across the pan, some showing a slight char on the edges. Bright yellow sliced peppers and small red pepper pieces are scattered on and around the chicken, adding a pop of color. Small green herb bits are sprinkled lightly on top, enhancing the freshness and detail of the dish. The sauce looks smooth with visible specks of seasoning. The pan is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 tbsp butter
2 lbs chicken, cut into thin strips
1 tsp sea salt
1 tsp ground pepper
1 white onion, diced
2 tbsp garlic, diced
½ cup chicken stock
½ cup roasted red pepper, drained and sliced
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
1 tbsp Italian seasoning
½ cup pepperoncini peppers, drained (sliced, ring, or whole)

Instructions

Step 1: Cut the chicken into thin strips and season with salt and pepper.
Step 2: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken strips and cook until browned on all sides. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Add diced onions and garlic to the same skillet and sauté until fragrant and golden.
Step 4: Pour in chicken stock and roasted red peppers. Let reduce by half to deepen flavor.
Step 5: Turn off heat and slowly stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, whisking to create a smooth sauce.
Step 6: Return heat to medium and add Italian seasoning and pepperoncini peppers. Stir well.
Step 7: Add the browned chicken back to the pan and simmer until fully cooked and the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
Step 8: Serve hot over rice, vegetables, or pasta, and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

For extra heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic and onions.
Use Greek yogurt or sour cream instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce with a slight tang.
Substitute turkey strips for chicken for a different protein option.
Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley at the end for added freshness and color.

Storage

Store leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken stock or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.

How to Serve

The image shows a white plate with a baked potato topped with creamy sauce, pieces of chicken, and pepperoncini peppers. The potato is cut open to reveal its fluffy inside, covered generously with a pale yellow sauce with black pepper specks. On top and around the potato, there are green-yellow peppers and small pieces of pinkish chicken with a textured, slightly crispy surface. A fork is placed on the plate, resting near the food, and fresh green parsley is visible in the background on a white marbled surface. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh peppers instead of pepperoncini?

Fresh peppers such as banana peppers or mild jalapeños can be used, but keep in mind that pepperoncini have a unique tangy flavor that is integral to the dish’s signature taste.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Yes, this creamy chicken skillet reheats well and makes a great meal prep option. Store portions separately with your choice of base like rice or pasta for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.