Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet

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If you’re craving comfort with a bold twist, this Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet will hit all the right notes. The tender chicken thighs are seared to golden perfection, then simmered in a tangy, creamy sauce punctuated with the mild heat of pepperoncini and the briny bite of green olives. It’s rich, savory, and just spicy enough to wake up your taste buds.

Whether you’re cooking for guests or pulling together a flavorful weeknight dinner, this skillet meal brings both drama and ease. The entire dish comes together in one pan, soaking up all the savory flavors into a silky sauce that begs to be mopped up with crusty bread or spooned over rice or mashed potatoes.

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Ingredients for this Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet

• 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup sliced pepperoncini (plus extra for garnish)
• ½ cup green olives (pitted)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then sear them in the hot skillet until golden brown on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Build the Base

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the Dijon mustard, oregano, and chicken broth. Let it simmer for 2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce

Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir to combine, then add the sliced pepperoncini and green olives. Let the mixture simmer gently for 3-5 minutes to thicken slightly.

Step 4: Return the Chicken

Add the seared chicken back into the skillet. Spoon some of the sauce over each piece. Cover and cook on low heat for 8-10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and additional pepperoncini slices. Serve hot with your favorite side like mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but thighs remain juicier during cooking. If using breasts, watch the cook time closely to avoid drying them out.

Are pepperoncini very spicy?

No, pepperoncini are quite mild. They add a gentle tang and a hint of spice without overwhelming the dish.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

You can substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk, though it will change the flavor profile slightly.

What can I use instead of olives?

Capers or chopped sun-dried tomatoes can add a similar briny note if you’re not a fan of olives.

Is this dish keto-friendly?

Yes, it’s low in carbs and high in fat, making it suitable for a keto diet—just be mindful of the side dishes.

How do I thicken the sauce more?

Simmer the sauce a few extra minutes or stir in a slurry made of 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water.

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