Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe

If you’re craving the rich, savory flavors of a Philly cheesesteak but want something a bit lighter, this Chicken Philly Cheesesteak recipe is the perfect alternative! Juicy, seasoned chicken is cooked with sautéed bell peppers, onions, and melted provolone cheese, all piled high on a soft hoagie roll. This chicken version is just as satisfying as the traditional steak version but offers a leaner protein option while still delivering on flavor. Keep reading for the full recipe, substitution ideas, and helpful tips to make this tasty sandwich at home!

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What Is a Chicken Philly Cheesesteak?

A Chicken Philly Cheesesteak is a variation of the classic Philly cheesesteak sandwich, swapping out the beef for seasoned, thinly sliced chicken breast. The chicken is cooked on a griddle or skillet with onions, bell peppers, and melted cheese—typically provolone or American cheese—before being stuffed into a toasted hoagie roll. It’s a satisfying, easy-to-make sandwich that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.

Ingredients List for Chicken Philly Cheesesteak

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Chicken Philly Cheesesteak:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (thinly sliced or chopped)
• 1 large onion (thinly sliced)
• 1 large green bell pepper (thinly sliced)
• 1 large red bell pepper (thinly sliced)
• 4 slices provolone cheese (or American cheese)
• 4 hoagie rolls (or sub rolls)
• 2 tablespoon olive oil (divided)
• 1 tablespoon butter (for toasting the rolls)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Mayo or your favorite sauce (optional, for serving)

Substitutions and Variations

This Chicken Philly Cheesesteak recipe is flexible and can be customized to your preferences. Here are some great substitution and variation ideas:

• Cheese options: While provolone is classic, you can use American cheese, Cheez Whiz (for a more traditional Philly feel), mozzarella, or pepper jack for a bit of spice.
• Vegetable additions: Feel free to add mushrooms, sautéed spinach, or roasted red peppers for more variety.
• Meat alternatives: You can use ground chicken, turkey, or even thinly sliced steak for a more traditional Philly cheesesteak.
• Low-carb option: Skip the hoagie roll and serve the chicken and vegetables in a lettuce wrap or over a bed of greens for a lighter meal.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or jalapeños for a spicy kick.

These variations allow you to adapt the recipe based on your dietary preferences or what you have on hand.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s dive into the step-by-step process to make this easy and flavorful Chicken Philly Cheesesteak:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Thinly slice or chop the chicken breasts into small strips. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Toss to coat the chicken evenly.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers to the skillet and cook for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and lightly caramelized. Remove the vegetables from the skillet and set them aside.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the seasoned chicken strips and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Combine the Chicken and Vegetables

Once the chicken is fully cooked, return the sautéed onions and bell peppers to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for another 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Place the slices of provolone cheese directly on top of the chicken and vegetable mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid or a piece of foil for 1-2 minutes to allow the cheese to melt over the chicken and vegetables.

Step 6: Toast the Hoagie Rolls

While the cheese is melting, melt the butter in a separate skillet or on a griddle. Slice the hoagie rolls open and toast them, cut side down, until golden brown and crisp.

Step 7: Assemble the Chicken Philly Cheesesteaks

Once the cheese has melted, divide the chicken and vegetable mixture into four portions. Spoon each portion into the toasted hoagie rolls. If desired, spread some mayo or your favorite sauce on the rolls before adding the filling.

How to Cook Chicken Philly Cheesesteak: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a quick recap of the steps to make Chicken Philly Cheesesteak:

1. Season and slice the chicken: Thinly slice the chicken and season with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Sauté the vegetables: Cook the sliced onions and bell peppers until softened and caramelized.
3. Cook the chicken: In the same skillet, cook the chicken until browned and cooked through.
4. Combine the chicken and vegetables: Stir the vegetables back into the skillet with the chicken.
5. Melt the cheese: Add slices of provolone cheese over the chicken mixture and let it melt.
6. Toast the hoagie rolls: Toast the hoagie rolls until golden and crisp.
7. Assemble the sandwiches: Fill each roll with the cheesy chicken and vegetable mixture, and serve hot.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when making Chicken Philly Cheesesteak:

• Overcooking the chicken: Thinly sliced chicken cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to prevent it from drying out. Cook just until golden brown and cooked through.
• Not cooking the vegetables enough: For the best flavor, make sure to sauté the onions and bell peppers until they are soft and slightly caramelized.
• Not toasting the rolls: Toasting the hoagie rolls adds a delicious crunch and helps prevent them from getting soggy once filled with the juicy chicken and vegetables.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Although Chicken Philly Cheesesteaks are casual, hearty sandwiches, you can still make them look great on the plate.

How to Serve Chicken Philly Cheesesteak

Serve these sandwiches hot and fresh off the skillet. Pair them with classic sides like French fries, tater tots, or a simple green salad. They’re also great with chips or a side of coleslaw for added crunch.

Presentation Ideas for Chicken Philly Cheesesteak

• Cut diagonally: Slice the sandwiches diagonally for a neat and attractive presentation.
• Serve with dipping sauce: Offer a side of ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or ketchup for dipping.
• Add a pickle: A pickle spear served alongside the sandwich adds a crunchy, tangy contrast to the richness of the chicken and cheese.

Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe Tips

Here are a few helpful tips to make sure your Chicken Philly Cheesesteak turns out perfectly every time:

• Use a hot skillet: Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the chicken to ensure a good sear and to prevent the chicken from sticking.
• Make it ahead: You can slice and season the chicken and prep the vegetables ahead of time. Store everything in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
• Don’t skimp on the cheese: The melty cheese is what makes a Philly cheesesteak so irresistible, so don’t be afraid to add an extra slice if you’re a cheese lover!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs are juicier and will work just as well in this recipe. Just make sure to slice them thinly for even cooking.

2. Can I make Chicken Philly Cheesesteaks ahead of time?
You can cook the chicken and vegetables ahead of time and store them in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply reheat the mixture in a skillet and assemble the sandwiches with cheese and toasted hoagie rolls.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While provolone is classic, you can use any cheese you like, such as American, cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack.

4. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free hoagie rolls or serve the filling in lettuce wraps for a gluten-free version.

5. How long do Chicken Philly Cheesesteaks last in the fridge?
The cooked chicken and vegetable filling will last up to 3-4 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in a skillet before serving.

Conclusion

This Chicken Philly Cheesesteak recipe is a fantastic twist on the classic, offering all the rich, savory flavors you love with a leaner protein option. Juicy chicken, melty cheese, and sautéed onions and peppers come together in a soft hoagie roll for a sandwich that’s satisfying and delicious. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight meal or serving a crowd, it’s sure to be a hit.

So, grab your ingredients and treat yourself to this flavorful, comforting Chicken Philly Cheesesteak tonight—you won’t be disappointed!

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