Let’s Whip Up a Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet!
Hey there! Are you ready to discover a dish that’s not only super delicious but also incredibly easy to make? Today, I’m excited to share a recipe for Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken, a one-pan wonder that will make dinner a breeze and have your taste buds dancing! Trust me; once you try it, you’ll want to keep it on your regular rotation!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I totally get it—after a long day, the last thing you want to do is mess around with complicated recipes. That’s why I love this creamy chicken skillet! You get tender, juicy chicken simmered in a rich and tangy sauce, all cooked in just one skillet. Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with rice, pasta, or even a good, crusty piece of bread. It’s comfort food at its best!
Nutritional Benefits
You might be thinking, “But how healthy is this dish?” Well, let me tell you! Chicken breast is a fantastic source of lean protein, which is great for keeping you full and satisfied. Pepperoncini peppers add a zesty kick and are low in calories, while also providing some vitamins and beneficial antioxidants. And when you whip in that heavy cream? You could consider it a little indulgence that adds creaminess and flavor. Remember, balance is key!
Adaptable Variations
- Lighten It Up: If you’re looking for a healthier spin, swap heavy cream for cashew cream or coconut milk to keep that creamy texture while reducing calories.
- Swap the Chicken: Not a chicken fan? Try this recipe with shrimp, or even tofu for a plant-based option that absorbs all those delicious flavors!
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to toss in other veggies you have on hand—spinach, bell peppers, or even broccoli would work great!
Easy Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup sliced pepperoncini peppers (jarred)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 2 cups cooked rice (for serving, optional)
Cooking Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Start by giving your chicken breasts a sprinkle of salt and pepper on both sides. This step is super important for flavor!
- Cook the Chicken: Heat up olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside for later.
- Sauté the Peppers: In the same skillet, toss in the sliced pepperoncini peppers. Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes until they’re nice and softened.
- Add the Flavorings: Time to pour in the chicken broth! Add the garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Give it a good stir, scraping any delicious brown bits from the skillet’s bottom—you want all that flavor!
- Incorporate the Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and diced tomatoes. Bring this beautiful sauce to a gentle simmer.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Nestle the seared chicken back into the skillet. Let everything simmer together for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Garnish and Serve: Once the chicken is heated through and that sauce is creamy, remove it from heat. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and serve it over your choice of cooked rice (or pasta or bread!). Enjoy every delicious bite!
Helpful Tips
- Got leftovers? This dish will hold up well in the fridge for 3-4 days. Just reheat on the stove and add a splash of chicken broth if it’s thickened too much!
- If you like a kick, try using spicy pepperoncini or adding red pepper flakes to the sauce!
- Not a heavy cream fan? You can also use half and half for a lighter option.
Equipment Needed
You’ll want to have a few things ready for this recipe:
- A large skillet (preferably non-stick for easy cleanup)
- A good cutting board and knife for prepping your ingredients
- A spatula for stirring
- Measuring cups and spoons to get those ratios just right
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen chicken breasts? Yes, but you’ll need to thaw them first before cooking for even results!
- What can I substitute for pepperoncini? Banana peppers or jalapeños are great alternatives if you want something similar!
- How can I make this dairy-free? You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.
- Is this recipe spicy? The dish has a mild tang but isn’t overwhelmingly spicy. If you want it spicier, just add some chopped jalapeños or use spicy pepperoncini.
- Can I double this recipe? Absolutely! Just make sure you have a large enough skillet to accommodate all the chicken!
Let’s Connect!
So, are you ready to dive in and make this delectable creamy pepperoncini chicken? I would love to hear how it turns out for you! Feel free to share your creations and cooking experiences on Pinterest or drop a comment below. Your kitchen adventures inspire me, and I can’t wait to see your version of this recipe! Happy cooking!
