Easy Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Pepperoncini Chicken Recipe

This creamy pepperoncini chicken recipe is a game-changer for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike. The bold flavors of tangy pepperoncini peppers, smoky bacon, and flavorful sauce create a dish that feels indulgent yet approachable. It’s versatile enough to fit any dietary needs, offering both dairy-free and gluten-free options while remaining rich and satisfying. 

Whether you’re serving it for a quick dinner over mashed potatoes or pasta, or entertaining guests, this chicken dish is guaranteed to be one of your favorite things to make and a meal the whole family will enjoy, Plus, it’s easy to customize—use different cooking methods like a skillet, crock pot, or instant pot, and pair it with a Caesar salad and roasted cheesy potatoes for a meal that everyone will love.

Ingredient Notes

• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: These are perfect for this recipe as they cook evenly and remain tender. If you prefer, you can substitute with chicken thighs or other chicken pieces like drumsticks.

• Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• Garlic: Minced fresh garlic infuses the dish with a warm, savory flavor that pairs beautifully with the tangy pepperoncinis.
• Shallots: Finely chopped shallots add depth and a savory aroma.
• Bacon: Chopped and cooked until crispy, it provides a smoky, savory crunch.
• Pepperoncini Peppers and Brine: These tangy, mildly spicy peppers are the star of this recipe. The pepperoncini juice (or brine) adds a burst of flavor to the creamy sauce.

• Olive Oil or Avocado Oil: Ideal for searing the chicken and sautéing aromatics.
• Dairy-Free Butter: Provides richness while keeping the recipe dairy-free. If preferred, use regular butter.
• Coconut Milk or Dairy-Free Milk: Creates a creamy base for the sauce while keeping it dairy-free. For a richer texture, you can use heavy cream if dairy isn’t an issue.
• Dairy-Free Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Adds a creamy consistency and some tanginess to the sauce.

• Gluten-Free Flour: Thickens the sauce while keeping the recipe gluten-free. You can use all-purpose flour if you don’t need a gluten-free option.
• Chicken Broth: Thins out the sauce to the desired consistency while adding flavor. 
• Smoked Paprika (Optional): Adds a subtle smoky flavor that goes perfectly with the tanginess of the sauce.
• Salt and Black Pepper
• Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a vibrant garnish.

For exact ingredient amounts and instructions, see the printable recipe card below.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Pat the chicken dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat oil in a hot pan or grill pan over medium heat. Sear for 5–6 minutes each side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: In the same skillet, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to soak up any excess grease.

Step 3: Reduce heat to medium and melt the dairy-free butter. Sauté shallots for 2–3 minutes, then add garlic and chopped pepperoncinis. Cook for a few minutes until fragrant.

Step 4: Sprinkle gluten-free flour over the aromatics. Stir for 1–2 minutes to coat evenly, then slowly whisk in chicken broth, pepperoncini brine, and dairy-free milk. Add Greek yogurt or dairy-free sour cream, whisking until smooth.

Step 5: Place the chicken back in the skillet and spoon the sauce over the top of the chicken. Simmer for 8–10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F using a meat thermometer.

Step 6: Top with crispy bacon and fresh parsley. Serve over gluten-free pasta, rice, or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Serving Tips

• For Weeknight Dinners: Serve over pasta, mashed potatoes, or cauliflower rice for a quick, comforting meal that’s perfect for busy families.
• For Entertaining: Serve with crusty bread to soak up the tangy sauce, a kale salad, sauteed squash, and garnish with parsley, green onions, and extra pepperoncinis for presentation.
• Make It Kid-Friendly: Use banana peppers for a milder flavor and serve with buttered noodles and air fryer green beans.
• Shred chicken: Try shredding leftover chicken to make delicious chicken sandwiches or sliders, perfect for game day!
• Save the Brine: Pepperoncini brine is a flavor-packed ingredient that can be used in a variety of ways to add a tangy, zesty kick to your dishes and drinks. Try it in a salad dressing, as a marinade, mixed with mayonnaise as a spread, or even in place of olive juice in a dirty martini!