Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe

Craving a mouthwatering sandwich that’s packed with flavor, tender chicken, melted cheese, and sautéed vegetables? This Chicken Philly Cheesesteak recipe is the perfect go-to for a satisfying meal. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself to a hearty lunch, this recipe delivers big on taste and texture. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about making the best Chicken Philly Cheesesteak right at home, with step-by-step instructions, ingredient lists, and essential tips to perfect your dish.

What is a Chicken Philly Cheesesteak?

The Chicken Philly Cheesesteak is a delicious variation of the traditional Philly Cheesesteak, which originated in Philadelphia and is usually made with thinly sliced beef, grilled onions, and cheese. Instead of beef, this version uses tender, juicy chicken breast or thigh meat, combined with sautéed peppers, onions, and gooey melted cheese, all served in a soft hoagie or sub roll. The chicken version is just as flavorful and satisfying, making it a lighter alternative for those who prefer chicken over beef.

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Ingredients List for Chicken Philly Cheesesteak

Before you start cooking, it’s important to gather all the ingredients you’ll need for this recipe. Here’s a list of the essentials to make the perfect Chicken Philly Cheesesteak:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thigh meat, thinly sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced into strips
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips
• 1 large yellow onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4-6 slices of provolone cheese (or cheese of your choice)
• 4 hoagie rolls (or soft sub rolls)

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Optional Ingredients for Chicken Philly Cheesesteak

For extra flavor or a bit of a twist, you can include these optional ingredients:

• Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms add a savory, earthy element to the sandwich.
• Hot Sauce: Drizzle your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Mayonnaise: Some people like to spread mayo on the rolls for extra creaminess.
• Mozzarella or Cheddar Cheese: If you prefer a different cheese than provolone, feel free to substitute with mozzarella or cheddar for a slightly different taste and texture.
• Banana Peppers or Jalapeños: For an extra burst of flavor and heat, toss in some banana peppers or jalapeños.

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Substitutions and Variations

One of the great things about making a Chicken Philly Cheesesteak is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your dietary needs or taste preferences. Here are some substitutions and variations to consider:

1. Gluten-Free: Opt for gluten-free rolls or wraps to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
2. Low-Carb/Keto: Skip the bread and serve your Chicken Philly Cheesesteak over a bed of lettuce or in a lettuce wrap.
3. Cheese Options: Provolone is traditional, but feel free to use American, mozzarella, or pepper jack cheese if you prefer different flavors.
4. Vegetarian: For a vegetarian version, swap out the chicken for sautéed portobello mushrooms or tofu, and load up on the veggies.
5. Spices: Want more heat? Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the chicken seasoning to give your sandwich some extra zing.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Start by slicing the chicken breast or thigh meat into thin strips. To make this easier, you can freeze the chicken for about 30 minutes before slicing. This step ensures your chicken cooks evenly and quickly. Season the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

While the chicken is marinating with the seasoning, slice your onions, bell peppers, and garlic. If you’re adding mushrooms or any other vegetables, now is the time to prep them as well.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers, sautéing them until they become soft and slightly caramelized, about 8-10 minutes. If using mushrooms, add them to the pan with the other vegetables and cook until they’re tender.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

In the same skillet, push the vegetables to the side, then add the chicken strips. Cook the chicken over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through—this should take around 6-8 minutes.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Vegetables

Once the chicken is fully cooked, mix it together with the sautéed vegetables in the skillet. Adjust the seasoning with a pinch of salt and pepper if needed.

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

Step 1: Toast the Hoagie Rolls

While the chicken and vegetables are cooking, slice your hoagie rolls and lightly toast them under the broiler or in a hot pan for 1-2 minutes. You want the bread to be soft but with a slight crunch on the edges.

Step 2: Melt the Cheese

Lay slices of provolone cheese over the chicken and vegetable mixture in the skillet. Reduce the heat to low and cover the pan with a lid, allowing the cheese to melt for about 1-2 minutes. If you prefer, you can also melt the cheese by placing the assembled sandwiches under a broiler for a few minutes.

Step 3: Assemble the Sandwiches

Once the cheese has melted, use tongs to transfer the chicken, veggies, and cheese mixture into the toasted hoagie rolls. Be generous with the filling for a truly satisfying sandwich.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Chicken Philly Cheesesteak seems straightforward, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Overcooking the Chicken: Chicken breast can dry out quickly, so make sure to cook it just until it’s done—no longer. Chicken thighs are more forgiving if you’re worried about dryness.
• Skipping the Toasted Roll: A slightly toasted hoagie roll adds a crucial textural element to the sandwich. Don’t skip this step!
• Not Slicing Thin Enough: Thinly sliced chicken and vegetables cook faster and provide a better bite in the sandwich, so take your time when prepping the ingredients.
• Too Much Liquid in the Pan: If you have too much moisture in your pan from the vegetables or chicken, your sandwich can become soggy. Make sure to cook the veggies until the water evaporates, or drain excess liquid before assembling.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation is key to making your Chicken Philly Cheesesteak look as good as it tastes. Here are some ideas to help you serve it in style:

How to Serve Chicken Philly Cheesesteak

• With a Side of Fries or Chips: Serve your Chicken Philly Cheesesteak with a side of crispy fries, sweet potato fries, or kettle-cooked chips for a classic meal combo.
• With a Pickle Spear: A crunchy dill pickle on the side is a great way to balance the richness of the sandwich.
• Add a Side Salad: For a lighter option, serve with a fresh side salad to complement the heaviness of the cheesesteak.

Presentation Ideas for Chicken Philly Cheesesteak

• Use a Wooden Plank: Present the sandwich on a rustic wooden board for a hearty, casual look.
• Wrap in Parchment Paper: Wrap the sandwiches halfway in parchment paper for easy handling and a street-food vibe.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped cilantro can brighten up the dish visually.

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Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe Tips

• Freeze Chicken for Easier Slicing: If you’re having trouble slicing the chicken thinly, pop it in the freezer for about 30 minutes. This makes it firmer and easier to slice thinly.
• Use a Cast-Iron Skillet: A cast-iron skillet helps get a nice sear on the chicken and vegetables for better flavor.
• Don’t Overstuff the Sandwich: While it’s tempting to load up the sandwich, overstuffing can make it messy and harder to eat. Find the right balance!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make Chicken Philly Cheesesteak ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the chicken and vegetables in advance and store them in the refrigerator. When you're ready to eat, just reheat and assemble the sandwiches fresh.

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Absolutely! Provolone is traditional, but mozzarella, cheddar, Swiss, or even Cheez Whiz are great options.

Q: Can I freeze Chicken Philly Cheesesteak?
A: While it’s best served fresh, you can freeze the cooked chicken and veggies separately. When ready to eat, thaw and reheat, then assemble with fresh bread and cheese.

Q: What’s the best type of bread for Chicken Philly Cheesesteak?
A: A soft hoagie roll or sub roll is ideal, but you can also use a baguette or a softer sandwich roll.

Conclusion

Making your own Chicken Philly Cheesesteak at home is easier than you might think! With tender chicken, sautéed veggies, and melty cheese piled high on a toasted roll, this sandwich is a surefire way to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re cooking for family or making a quick meal, this recipe is a versatile and delicious option that you can easily customize. Be sure to try out different variations and don’t forget to follow the serving tips for the best experience. Happy cooking, and enjoy your tasty Chicken Philly Cheesesteak!

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