This One Pot Creamy Pepperoncini dish is a flavorful and comforting meal that combines the tangy zest of pepperoncini peppers with a rich, creamy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners, this recipe is easy to prepare and requires minimal cleanup. The tender chicken, vibrant peppers, and luscious sauce create a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients:
- Chicken: 2 pounds of chicken tenderloins or breasts, cut into strips.
- Butter: 2 tablespoons for sautéing.
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon for added richness.
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced.
- Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped.
- Pepperoncini Peppers: ½ cup, sliced.
- Roasted Red Peppers: ½ cup, diced.
- Chicken Broth: ½ cup for the base of the sauce.
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup for creaminess.
- Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, grated.
- Italian Seasoning: 1 tablespoon for a herbal touch.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, for a spicy kick.
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken strips with salt and pepper. Heat the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Build the Sauce:
- Add the chicken broth to the skillet and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Stir in the roasted red peppers and pepperoncini slices. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Add Cream and Cheese:
- Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream, whisking continuously to prevent curdling.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine and Cook:
- Return the chicken to the skillet, ensuring it is fully coated in the sauce.
- Let the dish simmer for an additional 10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of chicken broth to adjust the consistency.
- Finish and Serve:
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes as desired.
- Serve the creamy pepperoncini chicken over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley or additional Parmesan cheese for an extra touch.
Tips and Variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with mushrooms or tofu for a vegetarian twist.
- Extra Veggies: Add spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat and add freshly cooked chicken when ready to serve.
- Pairing Suggestions: Serve with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad to complete the meal.
This One Pot Creamy Pepperoncini recipe is a versatile and satisfying dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Its bold flavors and creamy texture make it a standout choice for any occasion. Enjoy!