Flavorful Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet

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If you’re craving a cozy, bold-flavored dish that comes together quickly in one pan, this Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet is exactly what your dinner routine needs. Tender chicken thighs are seared until golden, then simmered in a tangy, creamy sauce brimming with briny pepperoncini flavor. It’s rich, vibrant, and irresistibly comforting.

This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights but elegant enough to serve for guests. The pepperoncinis bring just enough zing to cut through the richness of the cream, making every bite deeply flavorful without being overwhelming. You can spoon it over rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta—it all soaks up that silky sauce perfectly.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet

There’s a magic in how just a few simple ingredients can create something that tastes like it took all day to make. The creamy base, seasoned chicken, and sharp, pickled bite of the pepperoncini create layers of flavor in every forkful. It also happens to be gluten-free, low-carb friendly, and endlessly adaptable.

If you enjoy recipes like my Low Carb Chicken Casserole or Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna, you’ll fall in love with this one too.

What Kind of Pepperoncini Should I Use?

Both jarred sliced and whole pepperoncini peppers work well for this recipe. If you prefer a subtle flavor and less heat, go for mild, whole pepperoncini and slice them yourself. For more punch, opt for hot sliced ones straight from the jar. Either way, make sure to include a few spoonfuls of the pickling brine—it adds a burst of acidity that makes the creamy sauce sing.

Ingredients for the Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet

This skillet dinner needs just a handful of pantry staples and fridge basics. Each one plays a role in building the signature tangy, savory sauce.

• Chicken thighs: Juicy and flavorful, they hold up better than breasts in creamy sauces.
• Olive oil: For searing the chicken to golden perfection.
• Garlic: Adds a warm, aromatic backbone to the sauce.
• Chicken broth: Forms the base of the sauce and deglazes the pan.
• Heavy cream: Lends richness and silkiness to balance the pepperoncini bite.
• Pepperoncini peppers: The star ingredient; they give the sauce its tangy depth.
• Pepperoncini brine: A splash or two brightens the whole dish.
• Parmesan cheese: Brings nutty, salty notes and helps thicken the sauce.
• Salt and pepper: For balanced seasoning.

How To Make the Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Pat the chicken thighs dry and season with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken until golden on both sides, about 5–6 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Build the Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Pour in chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits.

Step 3: Add the Cream and Pepperoncini

Stir in the heavy cream, pepperoncini slices, and a splash of the brine. Bring to a simmer and let it reduce slightly for 3–5 minutes.

Step 4: Simmer the Chicken

Return the chicken to the skillet, reduce heat to low, and let it simmer in the sauce for 10 minutes until fully cooked through and the sauce is thickened.

Step 5: Finish with Cheese

Stir in grated Parmesan and let it melt into the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

How to Serve and Store This Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet

This skillet dish makes about 4 generous servings. It’s perfect over buttery mashed potatoes, al dente pasta, or a bed of steamed rice. For low-carb options, try it with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken slightly but can be easily revived with a splash of broth or cream when reheating.

What to Serve With Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken?

Garlic Bread

A crusty slice is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.

Roasted Vegetables

Caramelized Brussels sprouts or roasted carrots make great partners.

Mashed Potatoes

Classic and comforting, mashed potatoes cradle the saucy chicken beautifully.

Orzo Pasta

Tiny and tender, orzo is a fun base for the chicken.

Green Beans

Simple steamed green beans add freshness and crunch.

Balsamic Glazed Asparagus

That sweet tang pairs beautifully with the pepperoncini zip.

Side Salad

Go light with a lemon vinaigrette or creamy with ranch—both work well.

Crusty Artisan Bread

To scoop up every last bit of the sauce.

Want More Chicken Skillet Ideas?

If you love this Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet, try these other comforting and flavorful meals next:

• Delicious Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni if you’re in the mood for creamy pasta comfort.
• Easy Chicken Fried Rice when you want something fast and satisfying.
• Skirt Steak Rice Bowls with Chimichurri for bold, fresh flavors in every bite.
• Pepperoni Pizza Grilled Cheese for cheesy indulgence you can make in minutes.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can find it easily when a creamy skillet craving hits.

Tried this one already? I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you go with spicy pepperoncinis or keep it mild? Serve it with rice or mashed potatoes?

You can also explore health-forward and cozy weeknight meals on my Luna Meals Pinterest page for more inspiration.

Conclusion

Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet is the kind of weeknight dinner that doesn’t feel rushed. It’s flavorful, comforting, and tastes like something you’d order at a cozy bistro. Whether you’re feeding your family or just treating yourself, this easy one-pan dish delivers big taste with little effort. Once you try it, it’ll become one of your go-to chicken recipes.

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