This Easy Cheesy Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet is a tasty twist on a classic dish! It combines juicy chicken, colorful peppers, and gooey cheese all in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
I love how quick this dish comes together—perfect for those busy nights. Plus, who can resist that melty cheese? Serve it with some crusty bread for a true treat! 🥖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breast is the go-to for this recipe. If you’re looking for a quicker option, shredded rotisserie chicken can work well! For a unique twist, you can use sliced turkey or tofu for a meatless version.
Bell Peppers: Red and green bell peppers add color and flavor. You can swap them for yellow or orange peppers if you prefer a sweeter taste. If you’re watching your carbs, zucchini or mushrooms can be great substitutes too!
Onion: A medium yellow onion enhances the dish with its sweetness. If you don’t have yellow, try white or red onions. You can skip the onion altogether if you’re not a fan, though I think it adds a nice depth!
Cheese: Provolone is my favorite for cheesesteak flavors, but mozzarella melts beautifully too! If you want a stronger flavor, cheddar or pepper jack could add a nice kick.
How Do You Make Sure the Chicken is Juicy and Flavorful?
Cooking the chicken properly is key in this recipe. Start with thinly sliced pieces so they cook quickly and evenly. Here’s how to make sure they stay juicy:
- Heat your skillet well before adding the chicken. This helps it sear instead of steam.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! If it’s too crowded, the chicken won’t brown nicely. Cook in batches if needed.
- Season your chicken before cooking. This adds flavor right from the start!
What’s the Best Way to Melt the Cheese Without Burning Anything?
Melting the cheese properly ensures a gooey texture that everyone loves! Here are some tips to get it just right:
- Once the cheese is sprinkled on top, cover the skillet with a lid. This traps the steam and helps the cheese melt faster.
- Reduce the heat to low after covering the skillet so you can melt the cheese without overcooking the chicken or veggies.
- Keep an eye on it! Cheese can go from melted to burnt quickly, so check after 2 minutes.
Now you’re all set to create a delicious Easy Cheesy Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet! Enjoy your meal!
Easy Cheesy Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
Cooking Essentials:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Cheesy Finish:
- 1 cup shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese
- Optional: hoagie rolls or bread for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick meal that comes together in no time, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken and sprinkle with smoked paprika, dried oregano, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Toss in the sliced onions and bell peppers. Cook them, stirring occasionally, for approximately 7-8 minutes, or until they become tender and slightly caramelized.
3. Add Garlic and Combine:
Add the minced garlic to the sautéed onions and peppers, cooking for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir everything together to combine nicely.
4. Melt the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let the cheese melt for about 2-3 minutes, keeping an eye on it!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the cheese is melted and gooey, your Easy Cheesy Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet is ready to be served! You can enjoy it hot as is or stuff it into hoagie rolls or your favorite bread for a delicious sandwich.
Bon appétit! Enjoy this tasty and quick meal!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover cooked chicken is perfect for this skillet. Simply shred or slice it and add it in when you’re sautéing the vegetables. Just be mindful to adjust the cooking time since the chicken is already cooked.
What Vegetables Can I Substitute?
If you don’t have bell peppers or onions on hand, you can use other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or even spinach. Just make sure to adjust cooking times based on the vegetables you choose!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in a skillet or microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! You can substitute the cheese with a dairy-free alternative, such as vegan cheese shreds. You could also skip the cheese altogether and top your dish with avocado or a drizzle of tahini for added creaminess!
