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Easy Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Recipe

As Seen In 30-Minute Weeknight Meals.

This Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken is a quick and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Juicy chicken breasts are seared and simmered in a tangy, savory sauce made with pepperoncinis, dairy-free milk, and a hint of smoked paprika. Ready in just 35 minutes, this dish is versatile and can be served over gluten-free pasta, rice, or with roasted vegetables. With make-ahead and freezing options, it’s a convenient and delicious meal for any night of the week!
Sarah Recipes
Recipe by Sarah Sarah
Fresh from the Kitchen: Fri, 28 Feb 2025 11:51:06 GMT
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A dish of chicken with olives and herbs in a black bowl. Save for Later
A dish of chicken with olives and herbs in a black bowl. | recipesaddicts.com

This Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken transforms everyday chicken breasts into a restaurant-worthy meal with its tangy, rich sauce that perfectly balances smoky bacon, zesty pepperoncini peppers, and a velvety dairy-free cream sauce. Ready in just about 30 minutes, this versatile dish works for both quick weeknight dinners and special occasions.

I discovered this recipe during a dinner rut when I needed something different yet approachable. The tangy pepperoncini sauce was such a hit that it's now in my regular rotation!

Essential Ingredients and Selection Tips

  • Pepperoncini Peppers: These mild, tangy peppers provide the signature flavor
  • Pepperoncini Brine: Don't discard it - this liquid gold adds amazing depth
  • Bacon: Creates a smoky foundation for the sauce
  • Chicken Breasts: Pat dry for the best sear
  • Dairy-Free Options: Coconut milk and dairy-free sour cream maintain richness without dairy

Detailed Cooking Instructions

Chicken Preparation:
Thorough seasoning and proper searing create a flavorful base
Bacon Cooking:
Render slowly to extract maximum flavor for the sauce
Aromatic Building:
Sautéing shallots and garlic creates depth
Flour Integration:
Whisking thoroughly prevents lumps in the sauce
Liquid Addition:
Add broth gradually for a smooth sauce
Simmering Technique:
Gentle heat ensures tender chicken and sauce reduction
Temperature Check:
165°F ensures perfectly cooked chicken
A bowl of chicken with bacon and herbs in a creamy sauce. Save for Later
A bowl of chicken with bacon and herbs in a creamy sauce. | recipesaddicts.com

My Italian grandmother always said the secret to great cooking is "building flavors one step at a time" - this recipe proves her right by layering bacon, aromatics, and tangy peppers into a harmonious sauce.

Perfect Pairings

Serve this versatile chicken over creamy mashed potatoes, pasta, or cauliflower rice. For a complete meal, add roasted vegetables or a simple green salad with vinaigrette.

A bowl of chicken with vegetables and sauce. Save for Later
A bowl of chicken with vegetables and sauce. | recipesaddicts.com

After making this countless times, I've found it's more than just dinner - it's a mood-lifter. The tangy, creamy sauce and tender chicken create a meal that feels special even on an ordinary weeknight, proving that a few flavorful ingredients can transform the simplest protein into something extraordinary.

Recipe Tips & FAQs

→ Can I use regular flour instead of gluten-free?
Yes, regular flour works if you don’t need the recipe to be gluten-free.
→ Can I make this recipe in a crockpot or instant pot?
Yes, see the recipe notes for instructions on adapting this dish for a crockpot or instant pot.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
→ Can I use heavy cream instead of dairy-free milk?
Yes, heavy cream works if you’re not dairy-free.
→ What can I serve with this dish?
Serve over gluten-free pasta, rice, or with roasted vegetables.

Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken

This Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken is a quick and flavorful dish with juicy chicken, tangy pepperoncinis, and a rich, dairy-free sauce. Perfect for weeknights!

Prep Time
5 Minutes
Cooking Time
30 Minutes
Total Time
35 Minutes
Recipe by Sarah: Sarah

Recipe Type: Quick & Easy

Skill Level: Moderate

Style of Cooking: American

Makes: 4 Serves (4 servings)

Dietary Notes: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

What You'll Need

→ Chicken

01 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
03 Salt and pepper, to taste

→ Chicken Skillet and Sauce

04 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
05 2 tablespoons dairy-free butter
06 1 large shallot, finely chopped
07 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
08 ½ cup chopped pickled pepperoncinis (add more to taste)
09 2 tablespoons pepperoncini juice or brine
10 3-4 slices bacon, chopped
11 1 cup coconut milk or dairy-free milk of choice (sub heavy cream if not dairy-free)
12 1 cup chicken broth (add 2 additional tablespoons if needed to thin)
13 ½ cup dairy-free sour cream or Greek yogurt (if not dairy-free)
14 2 ½-3 tablespoons gluten-free flour
15 ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
16 ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
17 Salt and pepper, to taste
18 Fresh parsley, for garnish

Let's Cook!

Step 01

Pat chicken dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

Step 02

In the same skillet, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Transfer bacon to a plate lined with paper towels.

Step 03

Reduce heat to medium. Add dairy-free butter to the skillet. Sauté the shallots for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add garlic and chopped pepperoncinis. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 04

Sprinkle the gluten-free flour over the aromatics and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes until the flour evenly coats the mixture. Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking to avoid lumps. Add the pepperoncini brine, dairy-free milk, and Greek yogurt (or dairy-free sour cream), whisking until smooth and creamy.

Step 05

Stir in smoked paprika (if using) and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 06

Return the seared chicken to the skillet, spooning some sauce over the top. Simmer on low heat for 8-10 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature 165°F/75°C). Add the crispy bacon over the top of the chicken.

Step 07

Garnish with fresh parsley and extra pepperoncinis. Serve over gluten-free pasta, rice, or with roasted vegetables.

Cook's Notes

  1. For a thinner sauce, add 1–2 tablespoons of chicken broth. To thicken, whisk in additional flour.
  2. The brine from the pepperoncini jar is packed with tangy, zesty flavor and helps balance the richness of the creamy sauce. Measure the pepperoncini juice carefully and mix it into the sauce for a burst of brightness.
  3. Store leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Freeze the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
  4. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth to maintain the creamy consistency.

Kitchen Tools Needed

  • Large skillet
  • Paper towels
  • Whisk

Allergy Notes

Always check ingredients carefully for allergens. When in doubt, please consult your healthcare provider.
  • Contains dairy (if using Greek yogurt or heavy cream)
  • Contains gluten (if not using gluten-free flour)
  • Contains pork (bacon)

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Nutritional values are carefully calculated estimates. For precise dietary needs, please consult a nutritionist.
  • Calories: 321
  • Total Fat: 19 g
  • Total Carbohydrates: 7 g
  • Protein: 30 g