Name: One-Pan Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 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); 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

Cooking can feel like a chore for busy young professionals balancing work, social lives, and personal interests. That's where one-pan meals come to the rescue! Imagine whipping up a delicious, hearty dish like one-pan creamy pepperoncini chicken without the hassle of multiple pots and pans. The beauty lies in its simplicity: everything cooks together in one skillet, minimizing both cleanup time and effort.

One-pan meals streamline your cooking routine, allowing you to focus on what really matters — enjoying good food and time with friends or family. For more tips on easy cooking, check out resources like Bon Appétit for helpful cooking hacks.

In addition, the flavors of pepperoncini peppers combine beautifully with chicken and a creamy sauce, creating a dish that feels indulgent yet is easy enough for a weeknight dinner. You don’t need to be a seasoned chef to impress your friends or make a cozy family meal; this recipe is all about delicious ingredients coming together in harmony.

So, are you ready to simplify your dinner? Let’s get started with this delightful and fulfilling recipe!

Ingredients for One-Pan Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken

When delving into this delicious one-pan creamy pepperoncini chicken recipe, you'll want to have your ingredients ready for a seamless cooking experience. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the balance of flavors, making it perfect for both busy weeknights and cozy weekends.

1 medium red bell pepper: Adds a sweet crunch and vibrant color to the dish.
½ medium yellow onion: Introduces a savory base that complements the chicken beautifully.
10 whole or ½ cup sliced pepperoncini peppers: Brings a delightful tang and a hint of heat—this is where the magic happens!
1 ounce Parmesan cheese (about ½ cup freshly grated or ⅓ cup store-bought): Creaminess and umami flavor come from this cheesy addition.
1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 3): The star protein of our dish, perfect for soaking up all those delicious flavors.
1 ¼ teaspoons kosher salt, divided: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all ingredient flavors.
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: A subtle spice that rounds out the dish.
3 tablespoons olive oil, divided: For sautéing and adding richness.
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: A mix of herbs that brings a taste of Italy to your kitchen.
½ cup low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps everything moist and flavorful.
½ cup heavy cream: The secret to that velvety, creamy texture.

Ready to bring these ingredients together? Check out the complete instructions and let the culinary adventure begin! You can find helpful tips and tricks on The Kitchn.

Preparing One-Pan Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken

Cooking doesn’t have to be complicated when you can whip up a delicious meal in just one pan! This one-pan creamy pepperoncini chicken recipe is not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process to create this creamy delight.

Gather Your Fresh Ingredients

Before you start, gather everything you need. For this recipe, you will require:

1 medium red bell pepper
½ medium yellow onion
10 whole or ½ cup sliced pepperoncini peppers
1 ounce Parmesan cheese (about ½ cup freshly grated or ⅓ cup store-bought)
1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 3)
1 ¼ teaspoons kosher salt, divided
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
½ cup heavy cream

Having everything prepped in advance makes the cooking process smoother. You don’t want to find yourself chopping bell peppers while your pan is sizzling away!

Prep the Chicken and Seasonings

Cut the chicken breasts across the grain into ½-inch-thick slices to ensure they remain tender when cooked. Place your chicken slices in a large bowl, and sprinkle ¾ teaspoon of kosher salt and the black pepper over them. Toss to coat evenly. This simple seasoning helps enhance the chicken's natural flavors and forms a delicious base for the creamy sauce.

Sear the Chicken to Perfection

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. This is the key to achieving a golden crust! Add half of the seasoned chicken in a single layer, cooking for about 6 minutes or until deeply browned and fully cooked. Use tongs to transfer it onto a plate and repeat with the remaining chicken. You want each piece to have that nice, crisp finish—trust me, it makes a huge difference!

Sauté the Vegetables and Create the Sauce

In the same skillet—don’t worry about those flavorful bits stuck to the bottom—add the last tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the bell peppers, onion, and the remaining ½ teaspoon of kosher salt along with the Italian seasoning. Sauté for around 2 minutes until the veggies start browning. Here’s where the magic happens: Add ½ cup of low-sodium chicken broth, scraping those browned bits off the pan to infuse the sauce with incredible flavor. Let it reduce by half for about 2 minutes.

Combine Everything for That Creamy Finish

Now for the fun part! Add the grated Parmesan and ½ cup of heavy cream to the skillet. Bring it to a gentle simmer and cook for about another 3 minutes until it thickens slightly, and the peppers soften. Return the seared chicken along with any juices to the pan, adding the pepperoncini peppers, and toss it all together to coat that tender chicken in the creamy goodness.

Serve it up with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan, and enjoy the delicious flavors of your one-pan creamy pepperoncini chicken. Quick, easy, and oh-so-satisfying—what’s not to love?

For more easy and flavorful recipes, check out this guide to one-pan meals.

Variations on One-Pan Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken

Spicy Pepperoncini Chicken with Added Chili Flakes

For those who crave a kick, elevate your one-pan creamy pepperoncini chicken by introducing a teaspoon of chili flakes. Just sprinkle them while cooking the chicken to infuse each bite with a delightful heat. Pair this variation with some crusty bread to soak up the rich, zesty sauce. You can also explore adding some fresh jalapeños for an extra layer of bold flavor!

Veggie-Packed Version with Additional Bell Peppers and Zucchini

Make your meal even more colorful and nutritious by incorporating sliced bell peppers and zucchini. Simply add these vibrant veggies along with the onion in step four. Not only does this enhance the presentation, but it also packs in more vitamins and minerals. You’ll be surprised how a simple tweak turns your one-pan creamy pepperoncini chicken into a comforting, wholesome dish! Looking for more veggie options? Check out this guide on incorporating seasonal vegetables.

Cooking Tips and Notes for One-Pan Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken

When preparing your one-pan creamy pepperoncini chicken, keep these handy tips in mind:

Ingredient Prep: Take the time to slice the vegetables and chicken before you start cooking. It shortens cooking time and keeps everything organized!
Browning the Chicken: Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken. This helps achieve beautifully browned pieces that lock in flavor.
Customize Your Spice: If you like a bit of a kick, add extra pepperoncini or a pinch of red pepper flakes to amp up the heat.
Creamy Consistency: For a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer. Just be cautious not to evaporate too much moisture.

For more tips on ingredient swaps and pasta pairings, check out this guide for maximizing flavor!

Serving Suggestions for One-Pan Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken

Transform your one-pan creamy pepperoncini chicken into a hearty meal with these delightful serving suggestions! Pair it with fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up all that delicious sauce. You can also serve it alongside a vibrant green salad for a refreshing crunch or some roasted vegetables for an added nutritional boost.

For those wishing to enhance the flavor profile, why not top it with some fresh herbs like parsley or basil? And if you're a fan of a bit of heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add just the right kick.

Don’t forget to pour a glass of sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon to cleanse your palate—it's the perfect balance! Explore these delicious options and make your dish truly unforgettable!

Time Breakdown for One-Pan Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken

Preparation Time

Getting your ingredients ready for this delicious one-pan creamy pepperoncini chicken will take about 15 minutes. This includes slicing your veggies, grating the cheese, and prepping your chicken.

Cooking Time

The cooking process will take approximately 20 minutes, allowing you to brown the chicken perfectly and create that rich, creamy sauce you’ll want to savor.

Total Time

In total, you’ll need around 35 minutes from start to finish. A quick and satisfying meal is just a short while away!

This dish not only promises great taste but also keeps cleanup minimal, making it the perfect weeknight dinner option. If you want to explore more one-pan wonders, check out this guide, which offers a variety of easy recipes for busy lives!

Nutritional Facts for One-Pan Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken

When savoring this delightful one-pan creamy pepperoncini chicken, it's great to be aware of what you're enjoying! Here’s a quick breakdown of the essential nutritional facts:

Calories

One serving of this dish contains approximately 480 calories, making it a hearty yet balanced option for a fulfilling meal.

Protein

Packed with protein, each serving provides about 35 grams. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking to increase their protein intake while enjoying a flavorful dinner.

Sodium

With around 850 milligrams of sodium per serving, be mindful if you're watching your salt intake. Opting for low-sodium chicken broth helps keep this dish tasting savory without overwhelming your palate.

For more personalized nutrition tips, consider visiting Nutrition.gov or exploring other delicious recipes that fit into your healthy lifestyle!

FAQs about One-Pan Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken

Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While Parmesan adds a lovely richness to the one-pan creamy pepperoncini chicken, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella for a milder flavor or cheddar for a robust taste. Just keep in mind that different cheeses have varying melting properties, so adjust the quantity accordingly.

How can I make this dish healthier?
To whip up a lighter version of this recipe, consider substituting heavy cream with a mixture of Greek yogurt and chicken broth, which adds creaminess without excessive calories. You could also use skinless chicken thighs for added flavor while maintaining juiciness. Lastly, bulk up the veggie content by tossing in more bell peppers or even adding spinach for a nutrient boost.

What should I serve it with?
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides! Try serving it over fluffy rice, quinoa, or whole grain pasta to soak up that creamy sauce. For a lighter option, a crisp green salad on the side works wonders, too. Check out this article on sides for chicken for more ideas to complement your one-pan creamy pepperoncini chicken!

Conclusion on One-Pan Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken

In summary, one-pan creamy pepperoncini chicken is more than just a meal; it's an experience. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, this dish brings the joy of cooking to your kitchen without the hassle. Serve it over rice or pasta, and watch your loved ones rave about it! For more delicious recipes, check out sites like Food Network or Bon Appétit.