Chicken Philly Cheese Steaks are a tasty twist on the classic! You’ll love the juicy chicken mixed with peppers, onions, and melted cheese all in a soft hoagie roll.
It’s honestly like a party in your mouth! I love making these for game day—everyone goes for seconds. Don’t forget to load on that cheesy goodness!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here for their lean texture. You could also use thinly sliced chicken thighs for a bit more flavor or even substitute with turkey breast if that’s what you have on hand.
Peppers: I like using both green and red bell peppers for their contrasting colors and flavors. If you prefer milder veggies, you could swap them for sweet mini peppers or use just one type for simplicity.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth. Sweet onions, like Vidalia, can be a great option. If you need to avoid onions, you can use leeks or omit them entirely without drastically changing the dish.
Cheese: Provolone cheese melts wonderfully and gives a nice flavor. If you’re looking for alternatives, mozzarella works well, or try sharp cheddar for a bolder taste. For a dairy-free option, check for vegan cheese slices.
How Do I Make Sure the Chicken is Cooked Just Right?
Cooking chicken evenly is crucial to avoid dryness. Start by slicing the chicken breasts thinly; this helps them cook through quickly. Here are some steps to ensure perfect chicken:
- Use a flat skillet for even heat distribution.
- Let the skillet heat up before adding oil; this helps to sear the chicken quickly.
- Cook the chicken until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan; if necessary, cook in batches.
With these tips, you’ll achieve tender, juicy chicken for your Philly cheese steaks!
How to Make Chicken Philly Cheese Steaks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced thin
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembly:
- 4 hoagie rolls
- 8 slices provolone cheese (or your preferred cheese)
- Optional: hot sauce for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 15 minutes to cook, plus some extra time for toasting the rolls. In total, you should expect to spend about 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and tasty meal perfect for any weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced onions and both the green and red bell peppers. Sauté these veggies for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are soft and lightly caramelized. When done, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced chicken. Season the chicken with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s fully cooked through. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is no longer pink inside.
3. Combine Everything:
Once the chicken is cooked, add the sautéed bell peppers and onions back into the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, just to heat everything through and meld those wonderful flavors.
4. Prepare the Hoagie Rolls:
While everything is cooking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Split the hoagie rolls open and place them on a baking sheet. Fill each roll evenly with the chicken and vegetable mixture, packing it in nicely.
5. Add the Cheese:
Top each filled hoagie roll with 2 slices of provolone cheese. If you love extra cheese, feel free to add more!
6. Bake It Up:
Now, pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for about 5-7 minutes. You’ll know they are ready when the cheese is melted and the rolls are lightly toasted.
7. Finish and Serve:
Once done, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Let the sandwiches cool for a minute before serving. If you like a bit of spice, drizzle some hot sauce on top. Enjoy your homemade Chicken Philly Cheese Steaks warm and fresh!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thoroughly thaw it first! The best way to thaw chicken is to leave it in the fridge overnight or to seal it in a plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for a couple of hours. Once thawed, slice it thinly for even cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Provolone Cheese?
If you don’t have provolone cheese, you can substitute it with mozzarella or cheddar for a different flavor. Both will melt nicely and give your Cheese Steaks a delicious gooey texture. Feel free to mix cheeses for even more flavor!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the filling in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, then serve on fresh hoagie rolls or enjoy it over rice or salad.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with a mix of sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach for a hearty veggie version. Use the same spices and proceed with the recipe to create delicious Vegetarian Philly Cheese Steaks!
