Chicken Philly Cheese Steaks

Chicken Philly Cheese Steaks are a delightful twist on the classic philly cheese steak, bringing together juicy, seasoned chicken with colorful sautéed bell peppers and onions, all topped with melted provolone cheese. This dish is not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to make at home. With its tender meat and vibrant vegetables enveloped in a warm hoagie roll, every bite captures a sumptuous experience. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, offering both comfort and flavor in every bite. Let’s dive into this step-by-step recipe that will make your kitchen smell divine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One of the main reasons you’ll adore this Chicken Philly Cheese Steaks recipe is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients, it’s a quick and easy meal that can be prepared in under 30 minutes. This dish is not only family-friendly but also customizable, making it suitable for all ages and tastes.

The minimal ingredients mean that even novice cooks can create an impressive dinner with ease. The combination of tender chicken, caramelized onions, sweet bell peppers, and gooey provolone cheese is irresistible. Not to mention, the use of healthier boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs offers a protein-packed meal option. You can also skip the hoagie if you wish to make it a low-carb alternative. It’s perfect for those peaceful evenings or lively family gatherings!

Ingredients for Chicken Philly Cheese Steaks

1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs): The star of the show, sliced thinly against the grain for tenderness.
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds depth and umami flavor to the chicken.
2 teaspoons olive oil: Healthy fat for sautéing veggies and searing chicken.
1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Enhances richness and flavor.
1 large yellow onion: Thinly sliced, it provides sweetness when caramelized.
2 bell peppers (green and red): For a colorful and flavorful crunch.
2 garlic cloves, minced: Aromatic and essential for depth.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional): A blend of herbs that adds a touch of Mediterranean flavor.
3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste: Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a hint of spice.
6–8 slices provolone (or white American): Creamy and melty, perfect for topping.
4 hoagie rolls, split (lightly toasted optional): The perfect vessel for all the deliciousness.
Optional spreads: Garlic-herb mayo, Dijon, or a pat of butter for added flavor.

Step-by-Step Directions for Chicken Philly Cheese Steaks

Season the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the sliced chicken with Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon of olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt, and black pepper. Toss well to ensure the chicken is evenly seasoned.
Sauté the Vegetables: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 teaspoon of olive oil and the unsalted butter. Once hot, add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Cook for about 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and have caramelized edges. Stir in the minced garlic and Italian seasoning, cooking for an additional 30 seconds before transferring the mixture to a plate.
Sear the Chicken: In the same skillet, increase the heat to high and add the seasoned chicken. Cook for 3–4 minutes until thoroughly cooked and lightly browned, seasoning with additional salt and pepper to taste.
Combine and Melt: Lower the heat to medium-low, return the onion and pepper mixture to the skillet, and form it into four mounds. Top each mound with slices of provolone cheese. Cover the skillet for 30–60 seconds, allowing the cheese to melt beautifully.
Assemble the Sandwiches: Divide the chicken and vegetable mixture among the split hoagie rolls. You can add optional spreads like garlic-herb mayo or Dijon for extra flavor. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips & Tricks

Chicken Tips: For extra flavor, try marinating the chicken for a couple of hours before cooking.
Veggie Variations: Feel free to swap in other vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for a different flavor profile.
Cheese Choices: If you’re a fan of a strong cheese flavor, provolone is perfect. For a milder taste, opt for white American cheese.
Bread Alternatives: Consider using whole wheat hoagie rolls, or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for quick lunches. You could also create a tasty chicken cheese steak salad with the leftovers!

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

To create a complete meal, consider serving your Chicken Philly Cheese Steaks with a side of crispy French fries or a light salad. A refreshing coleslaw adds a crunchy element that contrasts wonderfully with the warm sandwiches. Pair your meal with a fizzy soda or iced tea for a delightful experience. For an elevated gathering, you can serve with sweet potato fries and a refreshing dipping sauce.

Nutritional Information

This Chicken Philly Cheese Steak recipe serves 4 people and is a protein-packed meal. Each serving contains approximately:

Calories: 450-500 (depending on cheese and bread choices)
Protein: 35 g
Carbohydrates: 30 g
Fat: 25 g

While it’s indulgent, you can make healthier swaps like using less cheese or whole grain rolls. Balancing this dish with veggies or a salad could create a well-rounded meal plan.

Storing Tips & Variations for Chicken Philly Cheese Steaks

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a skillet over low heat to preserve the texture of the chicken and veggies. You can also try freezing portions of the chicken mixture for up to 3 months; just be sure to freeze them in individual serving sizes for convenience.

You could try variations of this recipe, such as using shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker option or experimenting with a variety of cheeses like cheddar or Monterey Jack. Mixing in other proteins like turkey or a plant-based alternative can cater to different dietary preferences.

Conclusion for Chicken Philly Cheese Steaks

Chicken Philly Cheese Steaks are not just another meal; they are an experience that brings flavors and comfort together in a delightful way. Ideal for any night of the week, this dish offers versatility, making it a go-to recipe for families and food lovers alike. So gather your ingredients, follow this step-by-step guide, and indulge in a delicious homemade Chicken Philly Cheese Steak today!

FAQs

Can I use different types of meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken for turkey or even thinly sliced beef if you prefer.
Are there any vegetarian options for this recipe?
Yes, feel free to use sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and eggplant mixed with cheese for a delicious vegetarian version.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can prep the veggies and chicken ahead of time, and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in a skillet for the best texture.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Just opt for gluten-free hoagie rolls or serve the mixture over rice or in lettuce wraps for a gluten-free alternative.

Chicken Philly Cheese Steaks