If you're a fan of the classic Philly cheesesteak, then you're in for a treat! The Chicken Philly Cheesesteak is a flavorful and lighter alternative that packs all the savory goodness you'd expect, but with tender chicken instead of beef. This delicious sandwich is perfect for a quick lunch, family dinner, or even a game-day treat. Want to learn how to make this amazing dish at home? Keep reading for all the details, from ingredients to step-by-step instructions, plus tips for serving and presentation. Let's dive in!
What is a Chicken Philly Cheesesteak?
A Chicken Philly Cheesesteak is a variation of the traditional Philly cheesesteak, which typically features thinly sliced beef, sautéed onions, and melted cheese on a hoagie roll. In this recipe, the beef is swapped out for seasoned chicken, while the rest of the elements—like bell peppers, onions, and melty cheese—remain the same. The result is a lighter, but equally satisfying, sandwich that is juicy, cheesy, and full of flavor.
Ingredients List for Chicken Philly Cheesesteak
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Chicken Philly Cheesesteak:
For the Chicken and Vegetables:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Sandwich:
- 4 hoagie rolls or any sturdy sandwich rolls
- 8 slices provolone cheese (or your preferred cheese, such as American or mozzarella)
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for toasting the bread)
- Mayonnaise (optional, for spreading on the bread)
- Optional condiments: mustard, ketchup, hot sauce
Substitutions and Variations
The great thing about a Chicken Philly Cheesesteak is its versatility. Here are a few variations you can try, depending on your preferences or dietary needs:
- Meat substitutions: If you're not a fan of chicken or want to try something different, you can use turkey, beef, or even plant-based meat alternatives like tofu or seitan.
- Cheese options: While provolone is a popular choice, you can switch it up with American cheese, Cheez Whiz (for a more authentic Philly style), or even a sharp cheddar for extra flavor.
- Bread choices: Hoagie rolls are traditional, but you can also use ciabatta, baguette, or even a lettuce wrap if you're looking for a low-carb option.
- Add-ins: Mushrooms, jalapeños, or sautéed spinach can be added for extra flavor and texture.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to start cooking? Follow these simple steps to make the perfect Chicken Philly Cheesesteak at home.
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
- Begin by thinly slicing the chicken breasts. For best results, slightly freeze the chicken for about 15-20 minutes before slicing—it makes cutting thin slices much easier.
- Season the chicken slices with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sliced bell peppers and onions to the pan. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and slightly caramelized.
- Once done, transfer the cooked vegetables to a plate and set them aside.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
- In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if necessary, and add the seasoned chicken slices.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked through and slightly browned.
- Add the cooked vegetables back into the skillet and stir to combine with the chicken.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
- Lower the heat to medium-low, then layer the provolone cheese slices over the chicken and vegetable mixture.
- Cover the skillet with a lid and let the cheese melt for about 2-3 minutes, until it’s fully melted and gooey.
Step 5: Toast the Bread
- While the cheese is melting, you can toast your hoagie rolls. Spread a small amount of butter on the inside of each roll and toast them in a separate skillet or toaster until golden brown.
- If you prefer, spread a little mayo on the toasted bread for extra richness.
How to Cook Chicken Philly Cheesesteak: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Slice the chicken thinly and season it with your favorite spices (garlic powder, onion powder, paprika).
- Cook the vegetables in a skillet with olive oil until they are soft and caramelized.
- Sauté the chicken until fully cooked and lightly browned.
- Melt the cheese over the chicken and vegetables in the skillet.
- Toast the hoagie rolls and assemble your sandwiches by filling them with the cheesy chicken and vegetable mixture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even though this recipe is fairly simple, there are a few mistakes you’ll want to avoid for the best results:
- Overcooking the chicken: Thinly sliced chicken cooks quickly, so make sure not to overcook it or it will become dry and tough.
- Undercooking the vegetables: For maximum flavor, allow your bell peppers and onions to soften and caramelize—they should be tender and sweet, not crunchy.
- Skipping the cheese melting step: Don't just place cheese in the sandwich; melt it directly over the chicken and veggies in the pan. This ensures even coverage and that gooey, melty texture you're looking for.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Once your Chicken Philly Cheesesteak is assembled, it's time to serve! Here are a few tips to ensure your dish looks as amazing as it tastes:
- Serve hot: The sandwich is best enjoyed fresh off the stove while the cheese is still melty.
- Cut on the diagonal: For a more polished look, cut your sandwich in half diagonally.
- Wrap in parchment paper: If you're serving these for a party or to-go, wrap them in parchment paper to give them a classic deli-style feel.
How to Serve Chicken Philly Cheesesteak
The Chicken Philly Cheesesteak is a complete meal in itself, but if you’re looking to make it part of a larger spread, here are some great side dishes that pair well:
- French fries or sweet potato fries
- Potato salad or coleslaw
- Onion rings
- Pickles or a simple green salad for a lighter option
Presentation Ideas for Chicken Philly Cheesesteak
Presentation is key to making your Chicken Philly Cheesesteak stand out. Here are some ideas:
- Use a wooden board: Present the sandwiches on a rustic wooden board for a casual, family-style meal.
- Individual baskets: Serve each sandwich in a paper-lined basket, just like you’d get in a sandwich shop.
- Garnish with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or cilantro can add a pop of color and freshness.
Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe Tips
To take your Chicken Philly Cheesesteak to the next level, keep these expert tips in mind:
- Freeze the chicken briefly before slicing to make it easier to cut thin slices.
- Cook the veggies first and remove them from the pan before cooking the chicken to avoid overcooking the vegetables.
- Use freshly baked rolls for the best texture and flavor in your sandwich.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make Chicken Philly Cheesesteak ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the chicken and vegetable mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat the mixture and toast the rolls before assembling the sandwiches.
Q: What other cheese works best for Chicken Philly Cheesesteak?
A: Provolone is the classic choice, but you can also use American cheese, mozzarella, or even a cheese sauce like Cheez Whiz.
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Just swap out the regular hoagie rolls for gluten-free rolls or use lettuce wraps instead.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftover Chicken Philly Cheesesteak?
A: Reheat the chicken and vegetable mixture in a skillet over medium heat. Toast fresh rolls, and then assemble the sandwiches as you normally would.
Conclusion
The Chicken Philly Cheesesteak is a delicious, satisfying twist on a classic sandwich. Whether you're whipping it up for a quick family dinner or serving it at your next gathering, this recipe is sure to be a hit. With tender chicken, caramelized vegetables, gooey cheese, and a perfectly toasted roll, it's a meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Be sure to follow the tips and variations above to make it your own, and don't forget to serve it with some tasty sides for the ultimate experience. Enjoy your homemade Chicken Philly Cheesesteak!
PrintChicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe
This Chicken Philly Cheesesteak recipe combines tender chicken breasts with sautéed bell peppers, onions, and gooey provolone cheese, all stuffed in a toasted hoagie roll. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal, this sandwich brings the flavors of Philly with a lighter, chicken-based twist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Sandwiches
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 4 slices provolone cheese
- 2 hoagie rolls
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add sliced onions and bell peppers, sauté until soft (about 5 minutes).
- Add sliced chicken to the skillet, season with salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce (if using).
- Cook the chicken until browned and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes).
- Layer provolone cheese over the chicken and veggie mixture, cover the skillet until the cheese melts.
- Toast the hoagie rolls, then fill them with the cheesy chicken mixture.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- You can add mushrooms or switch up the cheese to suit your taste.
- For a low-carb option, serve the chicken mixture in lettuce wraps instead of hoagie rolls.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 550kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 900mg
Leave a Reply