Name: Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs chicken (breasts or thighs), seasoned; 2 tbsp butter or 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 onion, thinly sliced; 2 tbsp minced garlic (about 4 cloves); ½–1 cup sliced pepperoncini peppers (with some brine); ½–1 cup roasted red peppers (or jarred slices); ½–1 cup chicken stock; 1 cup heavy cream; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tbsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional garnish: chopped parsley

I stumbled upon this one-pan wonder that combines tender chicken with the bright zing of pepperoncini and a rich, creamy sauce. It’s bold, comforting, and ready in just about 30 minutes—perfect for a cozy dinner at home. Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet

Why I’ll Love This Recipe

I love how the tangy flavor of pepperoncini cuts through the richness of the cream, making every bite feel balanced and exciting. It’s a dish that feels both indulgent and fresh. Plus, everything cooks in one skillet, which means cleanup is a breeze. It’s fast, easy, and packed with flavor—what more could I want on a busy night?

Ingredients

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

Chicken breasts or thighs
Butter or olive oil
Onion, thinly sliced
Garlic, minced
Sliced pepperoncini peppers
Roasted red peppers
Chicken stock
Heavy cream
Grated Parmesan cheese
Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper
Optional garnish: chopped parsley

Directions

I heat the butter or oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. I season the chicken and sear it for about 5 minutes per side until golden brown, then remove it from the pan.
In the same skillet, I sauté the onions until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. I stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
I add the sliced pepperoncini and roasted red peppers and cook them down for 2 more minutes to bring out their flavor.
I pour in the chicken stock, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. I stir everything together and let it simmer for around 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
I return the chicken to the pan, nestle it into the sauce, and let it simmer gently for another 10 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked.
Just before serving, I like to sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for a fresh finish.

Servings and Timing

Yield: 6 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

I sometimes use boneless skinless chicken thighs for added juiciness.
When I want it a bit lighter, I replace the heavy cream with half-and-half or even coconut cream.
For a spicier version, I add more pepperoncini or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
I like serving it over pasta, mashed potatoes, rice, or even with crusty bread for soaking up the sauce.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
To reheat, I gently warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to help loosen the sauce.
It also reheats well in the microwave, but I make sure to cover it and heat in short intervals to avoid overcooking.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, I just make sure it’s fully thawed before cooking to get that perfect sear and even cooking.

2. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. I just double-check any packaged items like chicken stock.

3. Can I make this ahead of time?

Definitely. I prepare it fully, let it cool, and store it in the fridge. The flavors actually get even better the next day.

4. What can I use instead of pepperoncini?

If I don’t have pepperoncini, I use banana peppers or even pickled jalapeños for a different kind of heat and tang.

5. How do I make the sauce thicker?

If I want a thicker sauce, I let it simmer a bit longer, or I add a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) and stir it in while simmering.

Conclusion

This creamy pepperoncini chicken skillet has become one of my go-to weeknight dinners. It’s comforting without being heavy, full of bold flavor, and super versatile. I love how quickly it comes together and how well it pairs with just about anything. Whether I’m cooking for myself or a group, this dish never fails to satisfy.