Name: Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American / Fusion
Ingredients: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs; Salt; Black pepper; Olive oil; Butter; Garlic (minced); Onion (sliced or diced); Pepperoncini peppers (sliced, plus a few whole for garnish); Pepperoncini brine (from the jar); Chicken broth; Heavy cream; Cream cheese or sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess); Fresh parsley (for garnish)

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Creamy pepperoncini chicken skillet is a bold, tangy, and comforting dish that combines tender seared chicken with a luscious cream sauce bursting with flavor from briny pepperoncini peppers. It’s a one-pan recipe that’s both rich and zesty — the perfect balance when I want something creamy with a little kick.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love how this dish comes together so quickly but tastes like it simmered all day. The pepperoncinis add a sharp, vinegary brightness that cuts through the richness of the cream sauce, making each bite feel indulgent yet refreshing. It’s versatile too — I serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, or just with crusty bread to soak up the sauce. And since it all cooks in one pan, cleanup is easy, which is always a win for me. Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Salt
Black pepper
Olive oil
Butter
Garlic (minced)
Onion (sliced or diced)
Pepperoncini peppers (sliced, plus a few whole for garnish)
Pepperoncini brine (from the jar)
Chicken broth
Heavy cream
Cream cheese or sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

I start by seasoning the chicken with salt and pepper on both sides.
In a large skillet, I heat olive oil over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. I remove it and set it aside.
In the same pan, I melt a bit of butter and sauté the garlic and onion until soft and fragrant.
I stir in the sliced pepperoncinis and a splash of the brine to bring out that tangy flavor.
I add the chicken broth and let it simmer for a couple of minutes to reduce slightly.
I pour in the heavy cream and stir in cream cheese or sour cream if I’m using it. I let the sauce simmer gently until it thickens.
I return the chicken to the skillet and let it warm through in the sauce for 2-3 minutes.
I finish with fresh parsley and a few whole pepperoncinis on top, then serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

I add spinach or kale at the end for extra greens.
For more heat, I toss in red pepper flakes or use hot pepperoncinis.
I use coconut milk instead of cream for a dairy-free version.
Sometimes I shred the cooked chicken and serve it in sandwiches or wraps with the sauce.

Storage/Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. I reheat them gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed. The flavors actually deepen after a day, making it even better the next time around. Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet

FAQs

What are pepperoncini peppers?

Pepperoncinis are mild, tangy pickled peppers usually found jarred in the condiment aisle. They add a bright, slightly spicy flavor that works perfectly in creamy dishes.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, I often use thighs for a juicier result. They hold up well to the sauce and stay tender.

Is this dish spicy?

It has a mild kick from the pepperoncinis, but it’s not overly spicy. I can always add more or less depending on how much heat I want.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I make the whole dish and reheat it gently. The sauce might thicken in the fridge, so I just add a bit of liquid to bring it back.

What’s the best side dish for this?

I love it with mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice. It also goes great with roasted vegetables or a simple side salad.

Conclusion

Creamy pepperoncini chicken skillet is one of those comforting, flavorful meals I keep in rotation for busy nights or when I want something a little different. The tangy peppers, rich sauce, and tender chicken make a perfect combo that’s easy to love — and even easier to cook. It’s bold, creamy, and totally satisfying every time.