Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe

If you're a fan of classic Philly cheesesteaks but looking for a lighter, leaner alternative, this Chicken Philly Cheesesteak recipe is for you! With tender, flavorful chicken breast, sautéed peppers, onions, and gooey melted cheese all packed into a soft hoagie roll, it’s a delicious spin on a traditional favorite. Whether you're cooking for your family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe is sure to be a hit! Keep reading to learn exactly how to make the perfect Chicken Philly Cheesesteak, complete with tips, variations, and serving suggestions.

What is a Chicken Philly Cheesesteak?

A Chicken Philly Cheesesteak is a variation of the classic Philly cheesesteak, which traditionally uses thinly sliced beef. In this version, thin slices of seasoned chicken breast are substituted for beef, but the essential ingredients—onions, peppers, and melted cheese—remain the same. This dish retains all the savory goodness of a cheesesteak but is often seen as a leaner option due to the use of chicken. The combination of sautéed vegetables, melted cheese, and juicy chicken makes it a flavorful, satisfying meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.

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Ingredients List for Chicken Philly Cheesesteak

Here’s everything you’ll need to create your own Chicken Philly Cheesesteak at home:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 to 1.5 pounds total), thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 1 medium green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 medium red bell pepper, thinly sliced (optional for added color)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 hoagie rolls or soft sub rolls
• 4-6 slices provolone cheese (or cheese of your choice like American or mozzarella)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional for added flavor)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, for added depth of flavor)

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Substitutions and Variations

While the classic recipe is incredibly tasty as it is, there are several ways you can switch things up to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some common substitutions and variations:

• Cheese Choices: While provolone is a popular cheese choice for cheesesteaks, you can easily swap it out for mozzarella, American cheese, or even Cheez Whiz for a more authentic Philly experience. Swiss cheese also works well for a milder flavor.
• Rolls: Not a fan of hoagie rolls? You can use any kind of bread, from whole-wheat subs to gluten-free buns. For a lower-carb option, try serving the chicken and veggies on lettuce wraps or over a salad.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add mushrooms or other vegetables to the sauté. Mushrooms add a hearty, umami flavor that complements the chicken well.
• Spicy Version: If you like your food with a bit of a kick, toss in some sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce when sautéing the chicken and vegetables.
• Chicken Thighs Instead of Breast: If you prefer a richer flavor, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breast. Thighs are more tender and juicy but slightly higher in fat.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making a Chicken Philly Cheesesteak at home is straightforward and only takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to ensure your meal comes out perfectly every time:

1. Prep the Chicken: Start by slicing the chicken breasts thinly, almost shaving them into strips. The thinner the slices, the quicker and more evenly they will cook. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Set it aside while you prepare the vegetables.
2. Slice the Vegetables: Thinly slice the onion and bell peppers. You want to cut them into long, thin strips for easy cooking and even distribution throughout the sandwich.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and slightly caramelized. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Transfer the veggies to a plate and set aside.
4. Cook the Chicken: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil if needed. Toss the seasoned chicken into the pan and cook for about 5-7 minutes until fully cooked through and slightly golden. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce (if using) to add a deeper flavor.
5. Combine Chicken and Vegetables: Return the sautéed vegetables to the skillet with the cooked chicken. Stir well to combine, allowing all the flavors to meld together.
6. Melt the Cheese: Lower the heat and place slices of provolone cheese on top of the chicken and vegetable mixture. Let it melt for about 1-2 minutes. You can also cover the skillet with a lid to speed up the process.
7. Toast the Rolls: While the cheese is melting, you can toast your hoagie rolls by placing them in the oven or on a grill for a couple of minutes, just until they’re warm and slightly crispy.
8. Assemble the Sandwich: Once the cheese is melted, use a spatula to scoop the chicken, cheese, and veggie mixture into your toasted hoagie rolls. Be generous with the filling!

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Chicken Philly Cheesesteak turns out perfectly every time, here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Overcooking the Chicken: Thinly sliced chicken cooks quickly. Overcooking can result in dry, tough chicken. Be sure to keep an eye on it and remove it from heat once it’s just cooked through.
• Using Too Much Oil: While sautéing the vegetables and chicken, be mindful of the amount of oil. Using too much can make the sandwich greasy. Just a tablespoon or so is enough for sautéing.
• Not Slicing the Vegetables Evenly: Uneven slices can result in some vegetables being undercooked while others are overcooked. Take the time to cut your onions and peppers into uniform strips for even cooking.
• Skipping the Cheese Melt: Melting the cheese directly on top of the chicken and vegetables in the skillet ensures a perfectly gooey, cheesy filling. Don’t just slap cold cheese onto the sandwich at the end!

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Serving and Presentation Tips

When it comes to serving and presenting your Chicken Philly Cheesesteak, a few simple touches can elevate the dish from casual to impressive. Here are some tips to consider:

How to Serve Chicken Philly Cheesesteak

• Accompaniments: Serve your Chicken Philly Cheesesteak with a side of crispy French fries, sweet potato fries, or even a simple salad for a lighter option. Coleslaw or pickles on the side also complement the rich, cheesy flavors of the sandwich.
• Dipping Sauce: For an extra layer of flavor, consider serving the sandwich with dipping sauces like garlic aioli, ranch, or a spicy chipotle mayo on the side.

Presentation Ideas for Chicken Philly Cheesesteak

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or cilantro adds a pop of color and freshness that can enhance the visual appeal of your cheesesteak.
• Serve Open-Faced: For a slightly different presentation, you can serve your cheesesteak open-faced. This means placing the chicken and vegetable mixture on the bottom half of the hoagie roll and leaving it uncovered by the top half.
• Cut the Sandwich in Half: Cutting the sandwich in half diagonally not only makes it easier to eat but also gives it that classic deli look when served.

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Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe Tips

• Use a Non-Stick Pan: To avoid sticking and ensure even cooking, use a non-stick skillet for sautéing the chicken and vegetables.
• Marinate the Chicken: For an extra boost of flavor, marinate the chicken in a bit of olive oil, garlic, and Worcestershire sauce for 15-30 minutes before cooking.
• Cheese Options: Feel free to get creative with your cheese choice. A combination of provolone and mozzarella can give you the perfect balance of gooeyness and flavor.
• Make It a Meal: Serve the Chicken Philly Cheesesteak with a cold, refreshing beverage like iced tea or lemonade, and a side of chips or a salad for a complete meal.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut if you’re short on time. Simply shred the cooked chicken and toss it with the sautéed vegetables before adding the cheese.

Q: What kind of cheese works best for a Chicken Philly Cheesesteak?
A: Provolone is the most popular choice, but you can also use mozzarella, American, Swiss, or even a cheese sauce like Cheez Whiz.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the chicken and vegetable mixture in advance and reheat it before assembling the sandwiches.

Q: How can I make this recipe healthier?
A: Opt for whole-grain rolls, use a lighter cheese or skip the cheese altogether, and serve the chicken and veggies over a bed of lettuce for a low-carb version.

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Conclusion

There you have it—a simple, tasty, and satisfying Chicken Philly Cheesesteak recipe that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a weekend indulgence. Whether you stick to the classic version or experiment with your own variations, this sandwich is sure to become a favorite in your household. So go ahead and give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!

Don’t forget to pair it with your favorite sides and enjoy the irresistible combination of juicy chicken, sautéed veggies, and melty cheese all packed into a warm, toasty roll. Happy cooking!

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