Grilled Chicken with Pepperoncini Garlic Butter

Indulge in the rich flavors of Grilled Chicken with Pepperoncini Garlic Butter. This dish is perfect for summer cookouts, family dinners, or a quick weeknight meal. The marinated chicken, topped with a zesty pepperoncini garlic butter sauce, is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds. Complement it with a refreshing cucumber salad for a complete dining experience that highlights Mediterranean flavors.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Grilled Chicken:
• For the Pepperoncini Butter Sauce:
• For the Cucumber Salad:
• Extras:
• How to Make Grilled Chicken with Pepperoncini Garlic Butter
• Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
• Step 2: Make the Cucumber Salad
• Step 3: Make the Pepperoncini Butter Sauce
• Step 4: Grill the Chicken
• Step 5: Assemble Your Dish
• How to Serve Grilled Chicken with Pepperoncini Garlic Butter
• Family-Style Platter
• With Pita Bread
• Topped with Feta
• Garnished with Chives
• As a Salad Topper
• How to Perfect Grilled Chicken with Pepperoncini Garlic Butter
• Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken with Pepperoncini Garlic Butter
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Grilled Chicken with Pepperoncini Garlic Butter
• Reheating Grilled Chicken with Pepperoncini Garlic Butter
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use other types of chicken?
• What if I can’t find pepperoncinis?
• How spicy is Grilled Chicken with Pepperoncini Garlic Butter?
• Can I make this dish ahead of time?
• What should I serve with this recipe?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of garlic butter and pepperoncini adds a unique zing to the grilled chicken.
• Quick and Easy: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Versatile Side Options: Pair the chicken with various sides like hummus, pita bread, or a fresh salad for different occasions.
• Healthy Choice: Grilled chicken is a lean protein option that fits well into any healthy eating plan.
• Family-Friendly Meal: This dish appeals to all ages, making it a go-to for family dinners or BBQs.

Tools and Preparation

To make Grilled Chicken with Pepperoncini Garlic Butter, having the right tools will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Meat thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Provides high heat for perfect grilling marks and flavor.
• Mixing bowl: Allows easy marination of chicken without mess.
• Meat thermometer: Ensures chicken is cooked to perfection at 160 degrees.

Ingredients

For the Grilled Chicken:

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon coarse kosher salt
• 1 lb. chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Pepperoncini Butter Sauce:

• 6 tablespoons butter
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup pepperoncini brine
• 1/4 to 1/2 cup pepperoncinis, chopped

For the Cucumber Salad:

• 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
• half a cucumber, chopped
• a quarter of a red onion, minced or thinly sliced
• salt and pepper, olive oil, vinegar

Extras:

• Chives
• Feta
• Hummus
• Pita Bread

How to Make Grilled Chicken with Pepperoncini Garlic Butter

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

• Place the chicken, spices, and olive oil together in a large bowl or plastic bag.
• Mix until well-coated.
• Set aside in the fridge while you prep other elements (30 minutes up to several hours).

Step 2: Make the Cucumber Salad

• Toss veggies with a small amount of salt, pepper, olive oil, and vinegar.
• Be cautious not to add too much liquid; otherwise, it becomes watery.

Step 3: Make the Pepperoncini Butter Sauce

• Melt the butter. This can easily be done in the microwave.
• Stir in the minced garlic, pepperoncini brine, and chopped pepperoncinis. Set aside.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

• Using a grill, grill pan, or skillet, cook the chicken until golden brown on both sides and cooked through.
• If you have a meat thermometer, check that it reaches 160 degrees.
• Let it rest for a moment before slicing.

Step 5: Assemble Your Dish

• For a family-style meal: Layer hummus on a large platter.
• Add cucumber salad in 3-4 mounds around the plate’s edge.
• Place grilled chicken in the center and drizzle with pepperoncini butter sauce.
• Finish with crumbled feta, chives, and seasoning to taste. Serve alongside pita bread for dipping!

How to Serve Grilled Chicken with Pepperoncini Garlic Butter

Serving grilled chicken with pepperoncini garlic butter is a delicious way to elevate your meal. This dish pairs well with various sides and garnishes that enhance its flavor.

Family-Style Platter

• Serve the grilled chicken on a large platter surrounded by cucumber salad and hummus. This creates an inviting look for gatherings.

With Pita Bread

• Accompany the chicken with warm pita bread for dipping. It’s perfect for scooping up the flavorful butter sauce.

Topped with Feta

• Crumble feta cheese over the grilled chicken for a creamy, tangy contrast. It adds a Mediterranean twist that complements the dish.

Garnished with Chives

• Sprinkle fresh chives on top for a pop of color and mild onion flavor. This simple garnish enhances both presentation and taste.

As a Salad Topper

• Slice the grilled chicken and serve it over mixed greens or in a grain bowl. Drizzle extra pepperoncini butter sauce on top for added flavor.

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How to Perfect Grilled Chicken with Pepperoncini Garlic Butter

To ensure your grilled chicken turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Marinate Well: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes. Longer marinating times yield more flavorful results.

• Use High Heat: Preheat your grill or pan properly to achieve that golden-brown crust while keeping the inside juicy.

• Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit for safe consumption.

• Let it Rest: After grilling, let the chicken rest for several minutes before slicing. This helps retain moisture in the meat.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken with Pepperoncini Garlic Butter

Complementing your grilled chicken with delicious side dishes can complete your meal beautifully. Here are some great options:

1. Greek Salad: A mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta dressed in olive oil makes a refreshing pairing.

2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until tender add color and nutrition to your plate.

3. Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa cooked with herbs provides a hearty yet light side that’s perfect for soaking up sauces.

4. Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread is always a hit, providing a crunchy texture alongside the juicy chicken.

5. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus spears charred on the grill offer a delightful crunch and earthy flavor.

6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can balance out the richness of the garlic butter sauce while adding crispness to your meal.

7. Rice Pilaf: Flavored rice pilaf can absorb the delicious pepperoncini sauce while complementing the grilled flavors of the chicken.

8. Potato Wedges: Oven-baked potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for a satisfying side that everyone will love.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Grilled Chicken with Pepperoncini Garlic Butter, it’s important to avoid these common pitfalls for the best results.

• Over-marinating the chicken – Marinating too long can make the chicken mushy. Stick to 30 minutes to several hours for optimal flavor and texture.
• Ignoring the resting time – Cutting into the chicken immediately after grilling can dry it out. Let it rest for a few minutes to retain its juices.
• Using too much salt in the cucumber salad – Excess salt can make your salad watery. Use a light hand when seasoning to keep it fresh and crisp.
• Not checking chicken doneness – Undercooking chicken can lead to food safety issues. Always check that it reaches an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Skipping the butter sauce – The pepperoncini garlic butter sauce adds essential flavor. Don’t skip this step; it elevates the dish significantly.
• Neglecting ingredient quality – Using low-quality ingredients can affect the overall taste. Opt for fresh and high-quality items, especially for the butter and vegetables.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store grilled chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Keep the pepperoncini garlic butter sauce in a separate container in the fridge for up to 1 week.

Freezing Grilled Chicken with Pepperoncini Garlic Butter

• Wrap grilled chicken tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing it in a freezer bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Grilled Chicken with Pepperoncini Garlic Butter

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake chicken wrapped in foil for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking frequently until heated through.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Grilled Chicken with Pepperoncini Garlic Butter.

Can I use other types of chicken?

Yes! You can use thighs or drumsticks instead of breasts. Adjust cooking time accordingly.

What if I can’t find pepperoncinis?

You can substitute with banana peppers or jalapeños for similar heat and flavor.

How spicy is Grilled Chicken with Pepperoncini Garlic Butter?

The spice level is mild but can be adjusted by using more or less pepperoncinis based on your preference.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can grill the chicken and prepare the butter sauce ahead of time. Just reheat before serving.

What should I serve with this recipe?

This dish pairs well with rice, pasta, or additional salads. Feel free to get creative!

Final Thoughts

Grilled Chicken with Pepperoncini Garlic Butter is not only delicious but also versatile, making it perfect for any meal. Customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or sides, and enjoy a delightful dining experience that everyone will love!