Grilled Chicken with Pepperoncini Garlic Butter

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Grilled Chicken with Pepperoncini Garlic Butter. This dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner or an impressive cookout with friends. The succulent grilled chicken breasts are marinated to perfection and topped with a unique pepperoncini garlic butter sauce, making every bite full of flavor. Served alongside a refreshing cucumber salad, this meal is not only delicious but also visually appealing.

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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
• Wrap It Up
• Salad Topper
• Meal Prep Containers
• Add Some Crunch
• Pair With Dips
• How to Perfect Grilled Chicken with Pepperoncini Garlic Butter
• Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken with Pepperoncini Garlic Butter
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Grilled Chicken with Pepperoncini Garlic Butter
• Reheating Grilled Chicken with Pepperoncini Garlic Butter
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How do I make Grilled Chicken with Pepperoncini Garlic Butter spicier?
• Can I use other types of chicken for this recipe?
• What sides pair well with Grilled Chicken with Pepperoncini Garlic Butter?
• Can I prepare the pepperoncini garlic butter ahead of time?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires minimal preparation and simple ingredients, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of garlic butter and pepperoncini creates a rich and tangy taste that elevates the grilled chicken.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy the chicken on its own, in salads, or as part of a larger spread with pita bread and hummus.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and fresh veggies, this meal is a healthy choice without sacrificing taste.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a summer barbecue, this dish fits seamlessly into any menu.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Meat thermometer
• Large mixing bowl or plastic bag
• Microwave-safe bowl (for melting butter)
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Essential for achieving that perfect char on the chicken while keeping it juicy.
• Meat thermometer: Ensures your chicken is cooked to the ideal temperature without drying out.
• Mixing bowl or plastic bag: Useful for marinating the chicken evenly.
• Microwave-safe bowl: Convenient for melting butter quickly and easily.

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 to taste
• olive oil to drizzle
• vinegar to taste

Extras

• Chives for garnish
• Feta cheese for topping
• Hummus as a side
• Pita bread for serving

How to Make Grilled Chicken with Pepperoncini Garlic Butter

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

• Place the chicken breasts in a large mixing bowl or plastic bag.
• Add the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, kosher salt, and olive oil.
• Mix thoroughly until the chicken is well-coated in spices.
• Let it marinate in the fridge for 30 minutes up to several hours.

Step 2: Make the Cucumber Salad

• In a bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, chopped cucumber, and minced red onion.
• Drizzle with olive oil and vinegar; season lightly with salt and pepper.
• Toss gently to combine without making it watery.

Step 3: Make the Pepperoncini Butter Sauce

• In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter until fully liquid.
• Stir in minced garlic, pepperoncini brine, and chopped pepperoncinis until well mixed.
• Set aside for later use.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

• Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
• Cook the marinated chicken breasts until golden brown on both sides and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160 degrees).
• Allow resting briefly before slicing.

Step 5: Assemble Your Dish

• On a large platter, layer hummus as a base if desired.
• Arrange cucumber salad around it in small mounds.
• Place sliced grilled chicken in the center and drizzle generously with pepperoncini butter sauce.
• Finish garnishing with feta cheese, chopped chives, and additional salt & pepper as needed. Serve with pita bread on the side for dipping. Enjoy!

How to Serve Grilled Chicken with Pepperoncini Garlic Butter

This grilled chicken dish is not only flavorful but also versatile when it comes to serving options. Here are some creative ways to present your grilled chicken with pepperoncini garlic butter for an appealing meal.

Family-Style Platter

• Serve the chicken in the center of a large platter, surrounded by colorful sides. This creates a beautiful presentation and encourages sharing.

Wrap It Up

• Use pita bread or tortillas to wrap the grilled chicken with cucumber salad and drizzle on the pepperoncini butter sauce for a delicious handheld meal.

Salad Topper

• Slice the grilled chicken and place it over a bed of greens. Add cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette for a fresh salad option.

Meal Prep Containers

• Portion out the grilled chicken with cucumber salad and extras into meal prep containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.

Add Some Crunch

• Top your dish with crispy fried onions or crushed nuts for added texture and flavor.

Pair With Dips

• Serve alongside hummus or tzatziki for dipping, enhancing your meal with Mediterranean flavors.

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How to Perfect Grilled Chicken with Pepperoncini Garlic Butter

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

• Marinate Properly: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes; this enhances flavor and tenderness.
• Preheat Your Grill: Make sure your grill is hot before adding the chicken. This helps achieve a nice sear and prevents sticking.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: Check that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit to guarantee it’s cooked through.
• Let It Rest: After grilling, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This keeps the juices locked in, making each bite moist.
• Adjust Spice Level: Feel free to adjust pepperoncini amounts based on your heat preference; more makes it spicier!
• Experiment with Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can elevate the dish even further; sprinkle them on top before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken with Pepperoncini Garlic Butter

Pairing side dishes can elevate your grilled chicken meal. Here are some delicious options that complement the flavors perfectly.

1. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion tossed in olive oil and vinegar.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until tender make for a delightful side that adds color and nutrition.
3. Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: Quinoa mixed with olives, feta, and fresh herbs provides a hearty yet healthy addition.
4. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra pepperoncini butter sauce left on your plate.
5. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus spears add a crunchy texture that pairs beautifully with grilled chicken.
6. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf mixed with herbs offers a mild base that allows the flavors of the chicken to shine through.
7. Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw adds creaminess and tanginess balancing out the richness of the garlic butter sauce.
8. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob is always a favorite during summertime grilling gatherings; brush it lightly with butter for extra flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Grilled Chicken with Pepperoncini Garlic Butter, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here’s how to avoid them.

• Skipping the marinade – Marinating the chicken is essential for infusing flavor. Don’t rush this step; allow at least 30 minutes or longer for the best taste.
• Overcooking the chicken – Overcooked chicken can be dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 160 degrees without going over.
• Using too much dressing on the salad – Adding too much salt or vinegar can make the cucumber salad watery. Be conservative with your seasonings for a fresher taste.
• Neglecting to rest the chicken – Cutting into the chicken immediately after grilling can cause juices to escape. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing for maximum juiciness.
• Not balancing flavors – Ensure that the pepperoncini butter sauce complements rather than overpowers the chicken. Taste and adjust ingredients as needed.

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Grilled Chicken with Pepperoncini Garlic Butter

• Wrap grilled chicken tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place it in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• The pepperoncini butter sauce can also be frozen in an ice cube tray and stored in a freezer bag.

Reheating Grilled Chicken with Pepperoncini Garlic Butter

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat chicken for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals until warm, usually around 1-2 minutes.
• Stovetop – Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of water or broth. Place the chicken in and cover until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How do I make Grilled Chicken with Pepperoncini Garlic Butter spicier?

You can add more chopped pepperoncinis or include crushed red pepper flakes into your butter sauce for an extra kick.

Can I use other types of chicken for this recipe?

Yes! Thighs or drumsticks work well but may require different cooking times compared to breasts.

What sides pair well with Grilled Chicken with Pepperoncini Garlic Butter?

Consider serving it with roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.

Can I prepare the pepperoncini garlic butter ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make it in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Chicken with Pepperoncini Garlic Butter is not only delicious but also versatile. It makes a great centerpiece for family meals or summer cookouts. Feel free to customize your dish by adding seasonal veggies or different herbs. Enjoy experimenting!