Introduction
Get ready to indulge in a comforting, creamy delight with this Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet! This one-pan meal is not just easy to prepare, but it’s also bursting with flavor. Perfectly seared chicken breasts meld beautifully with a rich sauce made from pepperoncini, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, creating a dinner that’s both satisfying and full of warm, inviting tastes.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup sliced pepperoncini peppers (with juice)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear until golden brown on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the pepperoncini peppers and their juice, followed by the chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Stir in the heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over it. Cover and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to adjust the level of heat by adding more or fewer pepperoncini peppers.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with rice or pasta to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cooking Techniques
Searing the chicken creates a golden crust that locks in moisture, while simmering the sauce melds the flavors together beautifully. The gradual whisking of the Parmesan cheese results in a velvety texture that enhances the overall richness of the dish.
FAQ
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, chicken thighs work wonderfully and will add additional flavor.
- Is there a substitute for heavy cream? You can use half-and-half, but the sauce will be less creamy.
- Can I freeze the leftovers? Yes, this dish can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Conclusion
This Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet is sure to become a favorite in your household. With its hearty flavors and simple preparation, it’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table, ready to indulge in a cozy culinary experience. Enjoy!