Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe: Easy and Flavorful Sandwich

Chicken Philly Cheesesteak: A Delicious and Easy Twist on a Classic

The Chicken Philly Cheesesteak is a modern twist on the beloved Philly cheesesteak, substituting thinly sliced chicken for the traditional beef while maintaining all the elements that make this sandwich a favorite—gooey melted cheese, sautéed onions, bell peppers, and a crispy hoagie roll. The lighter chicken version offers a healthier option without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction, making it an ideal choice for those looking to enjoy this comfort food more regularly.

This guide covers everything you need to know about making the perfect Chicken Philly Cheesesteak. From the ingredients and step-by-step instructions to customizable variations and serving suggestions, you’ll have all the tools to whip up a mouthwatering sandwich that’s sure to impress.

Why Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Is So Popular

While the classic beef cheesesteak remains a fan favorite, the Chicken Philly Cheesesteak has carved out its own place in the hearts of sandwich lovers. Here are a few reasons why the chicken version works so well:

1. Lighter and Healthier

Chicken breast is a lean protein that offers a lighter alternative to the traditional ribeye or sirloin steak used in cheesesteaks. With fewer calories and less fat, the Chicken Philly Cheesesteak provides a healthier option while still delivering big on flavor. This makes it perfect for those who love cheesesteaks but want to enjoy them more often without feeling too indulgent.

2. Big on Flavor

Despite using chicken, the flavors in this sandwich are anything but light. The savory, juicy chicken, sautéed onions, bell peppers, and melted cheese come together to create a sandwich that’s bursting with flavor. The chicken absorbs the seasoning beautifully, and when combined with the sautéed vegetables and melted provolone or mozzarella cheese, every bite is rich and satisfying.

3. Quick and Convenient

This sandwich can be made in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick lunch, an easy weeknight dinner, or even a game-day snack. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time.

4. Highly Customizable

One of the best things about the Chicken Philly Cheesesteak is its versatility. Whether you prefer extra cheese, additional veggies, or even a bit of heat, this sandwich is easily customizable to suit your taste preferences. It’s also great for feeding a crowd, as you can set up a “build-your-own” cheesesteak station with various toppings and condiments.

Ingredients for Chicken Philly Cheesesteak

The ingredients for this delicious sandwich are simple and easy to find at any grocery store:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (thinly sliced)
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional)
1 cup provolone cheese, shredded (or use mozzarella or American cheese)
4 hoagie rolls
2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: mayonnaise, mustard, or hot sauce for serving

These ingredients come together to create a flavorful, hearty sandwich that’s perfect for any occasion.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken Philly Cheesesteak

1 – Step : Slice and Season the Chicken

Thinly Slice the Chicken:
To ensure the chicken cooks evenly and quickly, it’s important to slice it as thinly as possible. For easier slicing, place the chicken in the freezer for 15-20 minutes beforehand. This will firm up the chicken and make it easier to slice into thin strips.
Season the Chicken:
Season the thinly sliced chicken with salt, pepper, and additional spices like garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika. This step ensures that the chicken is flavorful and well-seasoned before cooking.

2 – Step : Sauté the Vegetables

Heat the Olive Oil:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms (if using). Sauté the vegetables for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and caramelized. The onions should be golden brown, while the bell peppers and mushrooms should be tender with a slight char.
Set Aside:
Once the vegetables are cooked, remove them from the skillet and set them aside. You’ll add them back to the skillet later when combining them with the chicken.

3 – Step : Cook the Chicken

Sauté the Chicken:
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Add the seasoned chicken slices and cook for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chicken is browned and fully cooked. The thin slices will cook quickly, ensuring the chicken stays tender and juicy.
Combine with Vegetables:
Once the chicken is cooked, add the sautéed onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms back into the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

4 – Step : Melt the Cheese

Add Cheese:
Lower the heat and sprinkle the shredded provolone (or your preferred cheese) over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the cheese melt for 2-3 minutes, creating a gooey, cheesy topping for your sandwich.

5 – Step : Assemble the Sandwiches

Toast the Hoagie Rolls:
Lightly toast the hoagie rolls in the oven or on a skillet. This step adds a nice crunch to the sandwich and prevents the bread from becoming soggy once filled.
Fill the Rolls:
Once the cheese is fully melted, spoon the cheesy chicken and vegetable mixture into the toasted rolls. Add condiments like mayonnaise, mustard, or hot sauce, if desired, for extra flavor.

Recipe Variations

One of the best things about the Chicken Philly Cheesesteak is its versatility. Here are a few variations you can try:

Spicy Chicken Philly Cheesesteak

If you enjoy a bit of heat, add sliced jalapeños to the vegetable mix while sautéing. You can also sprinkle red pepper flakes over the chicken or drizzle hot sauce over the finished sandwich for an extra kick.

BBQ Chicken Philly Cheesesteak

For a smoky, tangy twist, toss the cooked chicken in your favorite barbecue sauce before adding the cheese. The BBQ sauce adds a sweet and savory element that pairs perfectly with the sautéed onions and bell peppers.

Mushroom Lovers’ Chicken Cheesesteak

If you’re a fan of mushrooms, this variation is for you. Add extra mushrooms to the sautéed vegetable mix, and consider using a combination of cheeses like provolone and mozzarella for added richness.

Different Cheese Options

While provolone is a classic choice, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, American, cheddar, or even pepper jack. Each cheese brings its own unique flavor and texture, so don’t be afraid to mix and match.

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Philly Cheesesteak

The Chicken Philly Cheesesteak pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas to complement your sandwich:

Classic French Fries

There’s nothing like a side of crispy French fries to go with a cheesesteak. You can opt for traditional fries, sweet potato fries, or even garlic parmesan fries for a flavor twist.

Potato Chips

For a quick and easy side, serve your sandwich with kettle-cooked potato chips. The crunchy texture of the chips pairs beautifully with the soft, cheesy filling of the sandwich.

Side Salad

If you’re looking for something lighter, a fresh side salad is a great option. A simple vinaigrette or Caesar salad works well to balance the richness of the sandwich.

Dipping Sauces

Offer a variety of dipping sauces to elevate your meal. Garlic aioli, ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, or even more hot sauce can add extra layers of flavor to your sandwich.

Cold Drinks

Pair your sandwich with a cold soda, iced tea, or lemonade for a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors. For something a bit stronger, a light beer or cider works wonderfully with the rich, cheesy chicken filling.

Storing and Reheating Chicken Philly Cheesesteak

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover chicken and vegetables, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the hoagie rolls separate to prevent them from becoming soggy.

Reheating

To reheat, place the chicken and vegetables in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Add a little extra cheese if needed and cover the skillet with a lid to melt it. Toast the hoagie rolls again before assembling the sandwich.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional content for each Chicken Philly Cheesesteak:

Calories: 450-550 (depending on portion size and ingredients)
Fat: 15-20 grams
Carbohydrates: 35-45 grams
Protein: 30-35 grams

This sandwich provides a satisfying balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fat, making it a great option for a filling meal.

Conclusion

The Chicken Philly Cheesesteak is a fantastic, lighter alternative to the classic beef cheesesteak, offering all the rich, cheesy flavors you love with the added benefit of lean protein. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner, a weekend lunch, or a crowd-pleasing game-day snack, this sandwich is sure to be a hit.

With endless customization options—from adding spice to experimenting with different cheeses—this sandwich can easily be tailored to suit your taste. And because it’s so quick and easy to make, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meal prep.

Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delicious, hearty sandwich that’s bound to become a new favorite in your household!

Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Twist on a Classic