Ultimate Chicken Philly Cheesesteak

Do you crave the classic, savory flavors of a Philly cheesesteak? You are in for a treat! This lighter chicken Philly cheesesteak brings all those iconic tastes right to your kitchen. To understand the origin of this beloved sandwich, it’s helpful to know a bit about the history of the original cheesesteak. It’s a quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying weeknight meal. You’ll love the combination of tender chicken, perfectly sautéed peppers and onions, and irresistibly melty cheese, all nestled in a warm roll. Get ready to elevate your dinner game with this delightful sandwich!

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Philly Cheesesteak

This recipe truly is a winner for so many reasons. It’s designed to be simple, delicious, and a total crowd-pleaser. Here’s why you’ll adore making this chicken cheesesteak sandwich:

  • Quick and Easy Prep: Perfect for busy weeknights, you can have this on the table in under 30 minutes.
  • Flavorful, Juicy Chicken: Tender chicken breast or thighs absorb all the delicious seasonings, making every bite succulent.
  • Perfectly Sautéed Veggies: Sweet bell peppers and onions cook down to a tender, slightly caramelized perfection.
  • Irresistibly Melty Cheese: Provolone or American cheese creates that signature gooey texture we all love.
  • Customizable with Your Favorites: Easily add mushrooms, spicy peppers, or your preferred toppings to make it your own.
  • A Crowd-Plsing Meal: Everyone from kids to adults will cheer for this satisfying and easy chicken Philly cheesesteak.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your amazing chicken Philly cheesesteak:

  • 2 tbsp. Avocado Oil (divided)
  • 8 oz. Boneless, skinless Chicken Breasts or Chicken Thighs (trimmed of excess fat)
  • Salt & Black Pepper, to taste
  • ½ tsp. Garlic Powder (divided)
  • 1 tsp. Italian Seasoning
  • ½ medium Red Bell Pepper, thinly sliced
  • ½ medium Green Bell Pepper, thinly sliced
  • ½ large Yellow or White Onion, thinly sliced
  • 4 slices Provolone Cheese
  • 2 Sausage Rolls

Notes & Substitutions

  • Oil: Feel free to use vegetable oil, canola oil, or olive oil if avocado oil is not available.
  • Chicken: Boneless chicken breasts or boneless, skinless chicken thighs both work wonderfully.
  • Cheese: Provolone is classic, but white American cheese or even a simple cheese sauce can create that melty goodness.
  • Rolls: Sturdy sub rolls or hoagie buns are key for holding all the delicious filling. Sara Lee Artesano Sausage Rolls are a fantastic choice.
  • Vegetables: Feel free to add sliced mushrooms, banana peppers, or even a few jalapeños for a kick.
  • Spices: Adjust the amounts of Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to suit your taste preferences.

Equipment

You won’t need many special tools for this recipe. Just a few kitchen essentials will do the trick:

  • Large skillet (a cast iron skillet is highly recommended for even heat)
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Spatula
  • Foil (for tenting the chicken)

How To Make This Chicken Philly Cheesesteak

Let’s get cooking! Follow these clear steps to make your delicious chicken Philly cheesesteak:

  1. Prep Chicken: Season the chicken all over with salt, black pepper, and ¼ tsp. garlic powder. Allow the seasoned chicken to rest at room temperature while you prepare the other ingredients. This helps the flavors meld.
  2. Slice Veggies: Thinly slice the red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and onion. Aim for consistent, thin strips so they cook evenly. Set all the sliced vegetables aside.
  3. Cook Chicken: Heat one tablespoon of avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Place the seasoned chicken in the hot skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). For optimal food safety, the U.S. Department of Agriculture provides clear guidelines on the safe cooking times for chicken.
  4. Rest Chicken: Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a clean cutting board. Tent it loosely with foil. Allowing the chicken to rest keeps it juicy and tender, crucial for a good chicken cheesesteak.
  5. Sauté Veggies: Add the remaining tablespoon of avocado oil to the same skillet. Add the sliced bell peppers, onions, the remaining ¼ tsp. garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Turn the heat up to medium-high.
  6. Cook Veggies: Sauté the vegetables, stirring occasionally, for 6-8 minutes. Cook until they are tender-crisp and have a slight char. This adds great flavor. Reduce the heat to medium-low.
  7. Slice Chicken: Remove the foil from the rested chicken and thinly slice it into strips against the grain. This makes it easier to eat in the sandwich.
  8. Combine & Melt: Add the sliced chicken and any accumulated juices back into the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Stir everything to combine. Divide the chicken and vegetable mixture into two separate piles in the pan, resembling the shape of your rolls. Place two slices of provolone cheese over the top of each pile. Cover the skillet with a lid or foil to trap the steam and let the cheese melt completely, about 1-2 minutes.
  9. Warm Rolls: While the cheese melts, briefly warm the sausage rolls in the microwave for about 20 seconds. This makes them soft and pliable, ready for filling.
  10. Assemble & Serve: Scoop one of the cheesy chicken and vegetable piles into a warm sausage roll. Repeat with the remaining roll. Serve your ultimate chicken Philly cheesesteak immediately while hot and delicious!

Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Philly Cheesesteak

Crafting the perfect Philly-style chicken sandwich is easy with these helpful tips:

  • Thin Slices are Key: Ensure both your chicken and vegetables are thinly sliced. This promotes even cooking and makes for a better bite in your sandwich.
  • High Heat Sauté for Veggies: Cooking the vegetables over medium-high heat helps them become tender-crisp with that delicious, slightly charred flavor.
  • Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you are doubling the recipe, cook the chicken and vegetables in batches. Overcrowding can steam ingredients instead of searing them.
  • Rest the Chicken: Always rest your cooked chicken. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every piece is incredibly tender and moist.
  • Melt Cheese Properly: Covering the skillet after adding the cheese creates a steamy environment that melts the cheese perfectly and quickly.
  • Warm Your Rolls: Lightly warming the rolls makes them soft and pliable, preventing them from tearing when you fill them and providing a truly authentic texture.

Serving Suggestions, Storage, & Variations

This versatile chicken Philly cheesesteak is fantastic on its own, but it’s also wonderful paired with simple sides or customized to your liking.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve your sandwiches with a side of crispy potato chips or golden french fries.
  • A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette makes for a refreshing contrast.
  • Offer a variety of condiments like hot sauce, mayonnaise, or ranch dressing for dipping.
  • Classic coleslaw or a spear of dill pickle are also excellent companions.

Storage Instructions

  • Refrigerate: Store any leftover chicken Philly cheesesteak filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  • Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the cooked filling in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
  • Reheat: Reheat the filling in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Then, assemble with fresh, warm rolls.

Recipe Variations

  • Spicy Kick: Add sliced fresh or pickled jalapeños to the veggies, or a dash of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
  • Mushrooms: Sauté sliced button or cremini mushrooms along with the bell peppers and onions for an earthy flavor.
  • Cheese Options: Don’t limit yourself to provolone! Try Swiss, sharp cheddar, or even a homemade cheese sauce for a different twist.
  • Rotisserie Chicken: For an even quicker meal, use pre-cooked shredded rotisserie chicken. Just add it to the sautéed veggies to warm through.
  • Different Breads: While traditional rolls are best, you can try ciabatta, focaccia, or even tortillas for easy wraps.

Nutrition Information

This delicious chicken Philly cheesesteak provides satisfying energy and flavor.

NutrientServing SizeValue
Calories1 sandwich570 kcal

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on the exact brands and quantities of ingredients you use. Always consult a professional for personalized dietary advice, especially if you have specific nutritional needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are answers to some common questions about making a fantastic chicken Philly cheesesteak.

  • What kind of chicken is best for Philly cheesesteak? Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work equally well. Thighs offer a richer flavor and stay incredibly juicy, while breasts are leaner and cook quickly.
  • What is the best cheese for a chicken Philly? Provolone is the most traditional choice, offering a mild, tangy flavor and excellent melt. White American cheese is another popular option for its super creamy melt.
  • Can I prepare the chicken and vegetables ahead of time? Yes, you can slice the vegetables and even cook and slice the chicken a day in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator, then combine and melt the cheese just before serving.
  • How do I prevent the sandwich from getting soggy? Using a sturdy roll that can hold up to the juicy filling is key. Also, assemble the sandwiches right before serving to maintain the best texture.
  • Can I make this recipe healthier? Absolutely! Use lean chicken breasts, reduce the amount of oil, load up on extra vegetables, and consider a whole wheat roll for added fiber.
  • What sides pair well with chicken Philly cheesesteaks? Classic choices include potato chips, french fries, a simple green salad, or even a side of coleslaw or pickles for a refreshing crunch.

Conclusion

You now have everything you need to create the ultimate chicken Philly cheesesteak right in your own kitchen! This recipe proves that you don’t need complex steps or exotic ingredients to achieve incredible flavor. With its quick prep time, tender chicken, savory veggies, and gooey cheese, it’s a meal that truly satisfies. Don’t hesitate to personalize it with your favorite toppings or a little extra spice. Give this recipe a try tonight, and then come back to share your experience, rate the recipe, or even post a picture! Happy cooking!

Chicken Philly Cheesesteak sandwich with melted cheese, grilled chicken, and sautéed peppers on a toasted hoagie roll.

Ultimate Chicken Philly Cheesesteak

This recipe details how to make a delicious chicken philly cheesesteak sandwich. Chicken is seasoned and cooked, then combined with sautéed bell peppers and onions, topped with melted provolone cheese, and served in warm sausage rolls.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 2 servings
Calories 500 kcal

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Cutting Board
  • Foil
  • Microwave

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp Avocado Oil divided
  • 8 oz Chicken Breasts or Chicken Thighs boneless / trimmed of excess fat
  • Salt & Pepper to taste
  • 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1 tsp Italian Seasoning
  • 1/2 medium Red Bell Pepper
  • 1/2 medium Green Bell Pepper
  • 1/2 large Onion
  • 4 slices Provolone Cheese
  • 2 Sausage Rolls

Instructions
 

Instructions

  • Season chicken with salt, pepper, and 1/4 tsp garlic powder, then let it rest while preparing other ingredients.
  • Thinly slice the bell peppers and onions.
  • Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large skillet over medium heat, cook chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until done, then transfer to a cutting board and tent with foil.
  • Add remaining oil, bell peppers, onions, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet, then increase heat to medium-high.
  • Cook vegetables until tender and slightly charred for 6-8 minutes, then reduce heat to medium.
  • Thinly slice the chicken into strips and stir it into the pan with the cooked vegetables.
  • Divide the chicken and vegetable mixture into two piles in the pan, cover each with provolone cheese, and let the cheese melt.
  • Warm the sausage rolls in the microwave for about 20 seconds.
  • Scoop one chicken and vegetable pile into a warm sausage roll; repeat for the second roll and serve hot.

Notes

The asterisk notes in the original ingredient list often refer to specific brands or preparations. Refer to your preferred brands or common preparations for best results.

Nutrition

Calories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 40gFat: 30gSodium: 1000mgFiber: 4gSugar: 7g
Keyword Chicken Philly Cheesesteak
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!