Name: One-Pan Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken
Prep time: 11 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 31 min
Ingredients: 1 medium red bell pepper; 1/2 medium yellow onion; 10 whole pepperoncini peppers (or 1/2 cup sliced); 1 ounce Parmesan cheese (about 1/2 cup freshly grated or 1/3 cup store-bought); 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 3 breasts); 1.25 teaspoons kosher salt (divided); 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning; 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided); 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream

Introduction to One-Pan Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken

If you're searching for a delicious yet effortless meal, you're in for a treat with One-Pan Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken. This dish brings together tender chicken, a medley of colorful bell peppers, and zesty pepperoncini for a delightful flavor explosion. The best part? Everything cooks in just one pan, making cleanup a breeze!

Why you’ll love this one-pan recipe

This recipe is perfect for busy professionals who want to whip up something satisfying without spending too much time in the kitchen. It boasts a cooking time of only 20 minutes, allowing you to enjoy a hearty dinner even on your busiest nights. Plus, the creamy sauce, enriched with Parmesan cheese and the tang of pepperoncini, will have your taste buds dancing.

Imagine coming home after a long day, tossing everything into one skillet, and savoring a plate of aromatic chicken, vibrant peppers, and a rich sauce—all without dealing with a sink full of dishes. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience! Whether served with rice, pasta, or crusty bread, this dish can quickly become your go-to weeknight favorite. The One-Pan Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken couldn't be easier or more delightful!

For more tips on quick dinners, consider checking out Bon Appétit for inspiration.

Ingredients for One-Pan Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken

Essential ingredients for the dish

Creating your One-Pan Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken starts with some straightforward yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 medium red bell pepper: Adds a sweet crunch.
½ medium yellow onion: Offers a savory base.
10 whole or ½ cup sliced pepperoncini peppers: For that tangy zing!
1 ounce Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated for maximum flavor.
1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein here.
1 ¼ teaspoons kosher salt: Essential for seasoning.
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Just the right kick.
3 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing and richness.
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: A great blend of herbs.
½ cup low-sodium chicken broth: Adds depth without too much sodium.
½ cup heavy cream: For that luscious, creamy finish.

Optional add-ins for extra flavor

Want to elevate your dish even further? Consider these optional add-ins:

Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can brighten up the flavors.
Red pepper flakes for an extra layer of heat.
Spinach or kale for added greens and nutrition.

With these ingredients in hand, you’re ready to whip up a deliciously creamy dish that will impress your family and friends! For more tips and best practices in cooking with pepperoncini, check out expert insights from Serious Eats.

Preparing One-Pan Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken

Gather and prep your ingredients

Before diving into the delightful process of creating your One-Pan Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken, it’s essential to gather all of your ingredients. This not only streamlines your cooking but also makes the experience more enjoyable. For this recipe, you’ll need:

1 medium red bell pepper
½ medium yellow onion
10 whole or ½ cup sliced pepperoncini peppers
1 ounce of Parmesan cheese (grated)
1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Spices: 1 ¼ teaspoons kosher salt, ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
3 tablespoons olive oil
½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
½ cup heavy cream

Once you have gathered your ingredients, go ahead and prep them: slice the red bell pepper, dice the onion, and thinly slice the pepperoncini. You’ll also want to grate the Parmesan cheese, which adds that delightful creaminess to the sauce.

Season the chicken

Now it’s time to focus on the chicken, the star of your One-Pan Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken. Start by slicing your chicken breasts across the grain into ½-inch-thick pieces. This ensures even cooking and tenderness. In a large bowl, season the chicken with ¾ teaspoon of the kosher salt and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Toss the chicken well to ensure each piece is coated. Seasoning is crucial for flavor development, so don’t skip this step!

Brown the chicken in a skillet

Next, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil should shimmer, indicating it's ready. Add half the chicken pieces in a single layer and allow them to brown for about 3 minutes on each side. The goal is to get that beautiful golden crust. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and repeat this step with the remaining chicken. Keeping the cooking in batches prevents overcrowding, ensuring your chicken sears beautifully.

Sauté the vegetables and create the sauce

With the chicken set aside, it’s veggie time! In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in your sliced bell pepper, diced onion, ½ teaspoon of kosher salt, and Italian seasoning. Sauté until they begin to brown, which should take about 2 minutes. The key to a flavorful sauce lies in deglazing the pan. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom with a wooden spoon. Let the broth reduce by half for about 2 minutes; those bits add incredible depth to your sauce!

Combine everything for a creamy finish

Now for the grand finale—adding cream and Parmesan! Lower the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan and heavy cream. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, letting it thicken slightly while the peppers soften, approximately 3 minutes. Finally, return the chicken to the pan along with any juices that may have accumulated. Toss everything together with the pepperoncini slices to coat in that luscious sauce. Serve with additional Parmesan cheese if desired, and savor the incredible flavors of your One-Pan Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken!

For more delicious tips on cooking chicken, check out Food Network or Bon Appétit!

Variations on One-Pan Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken

Customize Your Protein

If you’re looking to switch things up, why not substitute chicken with turkey or beef? Both options provide a delicious twist while maintaining the creamy, tangy flavors. Turkey breast works just as well, offering a leaner alternative, while beef can add a heartier note. Just be mindful of cooking times—beef may take a little longer to cook through.

Spice It Up

For those who love a little heat, feel free to make it spicy with additional seasonings. A dash of cayenne pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, or even a splash of your favorite hot sauce can turn your One-Pan Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken into a fiery feast. Not only will this enhance the flavor profile, but it will also add an exciting kick that keeps your taste buds dancing.

Feel free to explore more about these variations by checking out Cooking Light's spice guide or Turkey Cooking Tips!

Cooking Notes for One-Pan Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken

Tips for perfecting the sauce

To elevate your One-Pan Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken, the key is balancing flavors. Try using fresh garlic along with the onions for an aromatic boost. Make sure to simmer your sauce enough to allow the cream and cheese to meld beautifully. If your sauce is too thick, a splash of low-sodium chicken broth can work wonders—it’s all about achieving that perfect creamy consistency.

Best practices for chicken preparation

Properly prepping your chicken is essential for tender bites. Cut against the grain into thin slices; this technique ensures each piece remains juicy and flavorful. Don’t overcrowd the pan when browning. Work in batches if necessary, allowing the chicken to develop that golden-brown crust that adds both texture and depth to this delightful dish.

For more cooking tips, check out resources on chicken preparation techniques, which can be incredibly helpful in mastering your culinary skills!

Serving Suggestions for One-Pan Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken

What to Serve on the Side

When enjoying your One-Pan Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken, consider pairing it with:

Steamed Rice or Quinoa: The creamy sauce complements the grains beautifully, soaking up the flavors.
Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, zucchini, or asparagus roasted with olive oil enhance the meal while adding vibrancy to your plate.
Crispy Garlic Bread: Perfect for sopping up the delicious sauce; a great choice for bread lovers!

Creative Plating Ideas

To make your meal pop, try these plating tips:

Layering: Pour a scoop of rice on one side, place the chicken and peppers atop with sauce drizzled artistically.
Garnish: Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or basil to add color and freshness.
Contrast Colors: Use a darker plate to make the vibrant dish stand out.

Elevate your dining experience with these simple yet thoughtful serving suggestions! For more inspiration on sides, check out this wholesome sides guide.

Time Details for One-Pan Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken

Preparation Time

Getting ready to whip up this delightful dish takes just 11 minutes. Slice those colorful peppers, chop the onions, and prep your chicken—it's all super quick and straightforward.

Cooking Time

Once you're through with prep, it’s time to cook! The flavorful One-Pan Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken requires 20 minutes on the stove.

Total Time

Altogether, you’ll need 31 minutes from start to finish. This means in under half an hour, you can have a restaurant-worthy meal ready to impress. Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to savor the delicious aroma filling your kitchen!

Need tips on slicing peppers? Check out this guide for some helpful techniques!

Nutritional Information for One-Pan Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken

When preparing your One-Pan Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken, it's important to be mindful of the nutritional content. Here’s a quick breakdown per serving:

Calories

Each serving contains approximately 400 calories, making it a satisfying yet manageable option for any meal.

Protein

With about 40 grams of protein per serving, this dish is perfect for those looking to fuel their day or recover after a workout.

Sodium

Keep an eye on sodium intake; this recipe has around 800 milligrams per serving. For those monitoring their salt levels, consider using low-sodium chicken broth and cheese alternatives.

For more nutritional tips, check out resources like Nutrition.gov to understand how meal choices impact your lifestyle and health. Enjoy your cooking journey!

FAQs about One-Pan Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use frozen chicken for One-Pan Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken, but it's crucial to ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking. Cooking from frozen can lead to uneven cooking and food safety issues. Thaw it in the fridge overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave for a quick option.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you're looking for lighter options, there are several great substitutes for heavy cream. Full-fat coconut milk works beautifully if you want a non-dairy option, while whole milk mixed with a bit of butter can mimic the richness, too. For a vegan alternative, consider cashew cream or silken tofu blended until smooth—delicious and creamy!

How do I store leftovers?

Storing leftovers from your One-Pan Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken is simple. Let the dish cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it! Just make sure to separate into portions for easy reheating later. Enjoy your culinary creation!

Conclusion on One-Pan Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken

In summary, One-Pan Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken is the perfect dish for busy weeknights. With minimal cleanup and irresistibly creamy flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Don’t forget to personalize it with your favorite sides! Try serving it over rice or with roasted veggies for extra nutrition.

For more great recipes, check out Food Network or Minimalist Baker.