Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe

If you’re a fan of the classic Philly cheesesteak but want to try something a little different, this Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe is the perfect option! Featuring tender strips of chicken, sautéed onions and bell peppers, melted provolone cheese, and a toasted hoagie roll, this sandwich is just as hearty and satisfying as the traditional version, but with a lighter protein option. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and can be on your table in less than 30 minutes. Ready to dig in? Keep reading for the full recipe and step-by-step instructions to create this mouthwatering sandwich.

this Recipe

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What Is a "Chicken Philly Cheesesteak"?

A Chicken Philly Cheesesteak is a variation of the classic Philly cheesesteak sandwich that replaces the traditional thinly sliced beef with juicy, seasoned chicken. Like the original, it includes sautéed onions and bell peppers, and it’s topped with melted cheese, usually provolone or American, all served in a soft hoagie roll. This chicken version is lighter yet still packed with flavor, making it a great alternative to the classic steak sandwich. It’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even game day gatherings.

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Ingredients List for Chicken Philly Cheesesteak

To make a flavorful and satisfying Chicken Philly Cheesesteak, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1. Chicken Breasts (2 medium, boneless, skinless) – Thinly sliced or cut into strips.
2. Green Bell Pepper (1 medium, sliced into thin strips) – Adds a slight sweetness and crunch.
3. Onion (1 medium, sliced) – Provides a savory, slightly sweet base for the sandwich.
4. Provolone Cheese (4-6 slices) – Melts beautifully over the chicken and veggies.
5. Hoagie Rolls (4 large) – Soft rolls are perfect for holding all the delicious fillings.
6. Olive Oil (2 tablespoons) – Used to sauté the chicken and vegetables.
7. Butter (1 tablespoon) – Optional, for toasting the rolls.
8. Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon) – Adds extra flavor to the chicken.
9. Salt and Pepper – To taste, for seasoning the chicken and vegetables.
10. Optional Toppings – Hot sauce, mayonnaise, or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.

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Substitutions and Variations for Chicken Philly Cheesesteak

This recipe is flexible and can be customized in many ways to suit your taste. Here are some substitutions and variations:

1. Chicken Thighs – If you prefer juicier chicken, swap the chicken breasts for boneless, skinless thighs.
2. Cheese Varieties – While provolone is traditional, you can use mozzarella, cheddar, or even American cheese.
3. Add Mushrooms – Sautéed mushrooms are a delicious addition for more umami flavor.
4. Spicy Version – Add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce for some heat.
5. Low-Carb Option – Serve the chicken and veggies in lettuce wraps instead of hoagie rolls for a lower-carb version.
6. Different Vegetables – You can add or substitute red or yellow bell peppers, or even throw in some spinach for extra veggies.
7. Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free hoagie rolls or serve the chicken and veggies on top of rice or in a lettuce wrap.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now, let’s get started on making this delicious Chicken Philly Cheesesteak! It’s a quick and easy recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend lunches.

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

• Start by slicing the chicken breasts into thin strips or small bite-sized pieces. If the chicken is slightly frozen, it will be easier to slice thinly.
• Slice the onion and bell pepper into thin strips.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

• Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers.
• Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are softened and slightly caramelized. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, then transfer them to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

• In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the chicken strips and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
• Cook the chicken over medium-high heat for about 6-8 minutes, or until fully cooked through and golden brown. Stir occasionally to ensure the chicken cooks evenly.
• Once the chicken is cooked, return the sautéed onions and bell peppers to the skillet, and mix everything together.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

• Place the slices of provolone cheese on top of the chicken and vegetables in the skillet. Cover the skillet with a lid for about 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is gooey and delicious.

Step 5: Toast the Rolls (Optional)

• While the cheese is melting, you can toast the hoagie rolls if desired. Spread a little butter on the insides of the rolls and place them in a separate skillet or under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, or until they are lightly toasted and golden brown.

Step 6: Assemble the Sandwiches

• Once the cheese has melted, scoop the chicken, peppers, onions, and cheese mixture into the toasted hoagie rolls.
• If you like, add any optional toppings like mayonnaise, hot sauce, or sautéed mushrooms.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

• Serve the Chicken Philly Cheesesteaks immediately with your favorite sides like fries, chips, or a side salad. Enjoy!

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

1. Slice the Chicken and Vegetables – Thinly slice the chicken, onions, and bell peppers.
2. Sauté the Vegetables – Cook onions and bell peppers until soft and caramelized.
3. Cook the Chicken – Sauté the seasoned chicken strips until cooked through.
4. Add the Cheese – Place provolone slices on top of the chicken and veggies, and let it melt.
5. Toast the Rolls – Toast the hoagie rolls for added crunch (optional).
6. Assemble the Sandwich – Pile the cheesy chicken and veggies into the toasted hoagie rolls and serve.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

While this recipe is straightforward, here are a few common mistakes to avoid to ensure your Chicken Philly Cheesesteak turns out perfectly every time:

1. Overcrowding the Pan – Cook the chicken in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding the pan. This ensures the chicken gets a nice golden sear instead of steaming.
2. Not Slicing Chicken Thinly Enough – Thinly sliced chicken cooks more evenly and quickly, so make sure to slice it thin for the best texture.
3. Undercooking the Vegetables – Let the onions and peppers cook long enough to become soft and slightly caramelized for the best flavor.
4. Skipping the Cheese Melting Step – Don’t skip the step of melting the cheese directly over the chicken and vegetables in the skillet. This makes the sandwich extra gooey and delicious.
5. Using Cold Rolls – Toasting the hoagie rolls enhances the texture and prevents them from getting soggy, especially when filled with hot ingredients.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation can make your Chicken Philly Cheesesteak even more appealing. Here are a few serving ideas:

1. Serve with Fries – A side of French fries or sweet potato fries complements the sandwich perfectly.
2. Garnish with Fresh Herbs – Add a sprinkle of chopped parsley or cilantro for a fresh pop of color.
3. Add Pickles – Serve with a side of pickles for a tangy contrast to the rich, cheesy sandwich.
4. Pair with a Salad – Balance the richness of the sandwich with a light side salad.

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How to Serve Chicken Philly Cheesesteak

This Chicken Philly Cheesesteak is filling enough to stand on its own, but here are some great side dishes to pair with it for a complete meal:

• French Fries – Classic crispy fries are the perfect match for a hearty sandwich.
• Potato Chips – A quick and easy side that adds a nice crunch.
• Coleslaw – A tangy, creamy coleslaw complements the savory flavors of the sandwich.
• Pickles – The briny acidity of pickles provides a great contrast to the richness of the sandwich.
• Salad – A simple green salad or Caesar salad makes a great lighter side dish.

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Presentation Ideas for Chicken Philly Cheesesteak

To make your Chicken Philly Cheesesteak look as good as it tastes, here are some fun presentation ideas:

1. Serve on a Wooden Board – Present the sandwiches on a wooden cutting board with fries or chips on the side for a rustic, casual feel.
2. Wrap in Foil – Wrap the sandwiches in foil for a diner-style presentation that keeps them warm until serving.
3. Individual Baskets – Serve each sandwich in a small basket lined with parchment paper, along with a side of fries or chips.
4. Garnish with Fresh Herbs – Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or cilantro on top for a pop of color and freshness.

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Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe Tips

Here are a few extra tips to make sure your Chicken Philly Cheesesteak is perfect every time:

1. **Freeze the Chicken Before Slicing** – If you’re having trouble slicing the chicken thinly, pop it in the freezer for about 20 minutes before slicing. This will make it firmer and easier to cut.
2. Double the Recipe for Leftovers – Make extra chicken and veggies to enjoy as leftovers or for meal prep throughout the week.
3. Reheat Carefully – If reheating, use the oven or a skillet to warm up the sandwiches to maintain their texture. Avoid the microwave, which can make the bread soggy.
4. Season Well – Make sure to generously season the chicken and veggies for the best flavor. You can even add extra seasonings like smoked paprika or Italian herbs if you like.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a great option if you prefer a juicier, more flavorful meat.

Q: What’s the best bread for a Chicken Philly Cheesesteak?
A: Hoagie rolls or sub rolls are the traditional bread used for Philly cheesesteaks. They’re soft yet sturdy enough to hold the hot, melty filling. You can also use French rolls or even ciabatta.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: You can cook the chicken and vegetables ahead of time, then store them in the fridge. When ready to eat, reheat the mixture and assemble the sandwiches fresh with melted cheese.

Q: Can I freeze Chicken Philly Cheesesteak?
A: You can freeze the cooked chicken and vegetable mixture. When ready to serve, thaw and reheat the mixture, then assemble the sandwiches fresh.

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Conclusion

This Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe is a fantastic, lighter twist on the classic Philly cheesesteak that doesn’t skimp on flavor. With juicy chicken, sautéed veggies, melty cheese, and toasted hoagie rolls, it’s a quick and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. Whether you keep it simple or customize it with your favorite toppings, this sandwich is sure to be a hit with everyone. So grab your ingredients, fire up the skillet, and enjoy a warm, cheesy, and delicious chicken Philly cheesesteak tonight!

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