Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe

If you're a fan of the classic Philly cheesesteak, then you’re going to love this Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe! Juicy, seasoned chicken strips are sautéed with onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms, then topped with melted provolone cheese and stuffed into a soft hoagie roll. It’s a lighter version of the traditional beef cheesesteak, but just as satisfying and packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. Let’s dive into the details!

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What is a Chicken Philly Cheesesteak?

A Chicken Philly Cheesesteak is a variation of the classic Philly cheesesteak, made with thinly sliced chicken instead of beef. Like its beef counterpart, it’s typically served with sautéed onions and bell peppers, all topped with melted cheese. Provolone, American cheese, or even Cheez Whiz is often used to create that signature gooey cheesiness. The filling is served on a soft hoagie roll, making this sandwich the ultimate comfort food with just a bit of a lighter twist.

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Ingredients List for Chicken Philly Cheesesteak

Here’s everything you need to make a delicious Chicken Philly Cheesesteak:

1. Chicken Breasts: 1 ½ lbs, boneless and skinless (thinly sliced or cut into strips)
2. Bell Peppers: 1 green and 1 red, sliced into thin strips
3. Onion: 1 large, thinly sliced
4. Mushrooms: 1 cup, sliced (optional, but adds great flavor)
5. Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
6. Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (for sautéing the chicken and vegetables)
7. Butter: 1 tablespoon (optional, for extra richness)
8. Provolone Cheese: 6-8 slices (or use mozzarella, American, or Cheez Whiz)
9. Hoagie Rolls: 4 large, soft rolls (or use French rolls or any sub-style bread)
10. Salt & Pepper: To taste (for seasoning the chicken and vegetables)
11. Paprika: 1 teaspoon (optional, for extra flavor)
12. Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon (or use dried oregano and basil)
13. Mayonnaise: ¼ cup (optional, for spreading on the rolls)
14. Hot Sauce: Optional, for a bit of heat
15. Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped (for garnish, optional)

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Ingredients List for Chicken Philly Cheesesteak (Variations)

Feel free to customize your Chicken Philly Cheesesteak to suit your taste with these fun variations:

1. Spicy Chicken Philly Cheesesteak

• Add sliced jalapeños to the sautéed vegetables for extra heat.
• Drizzle with sriracha, hot sauce, or use pepper jack cheese instead of provolone.

2. BBQ Chicken Philly Cheesesteak

• Toss the cooked chicken in barbecue sauce for a tangy, smoky flavor.
• Use cheddar or smoked gouda cheese to complement the BBQ chicken.

3. Buffalo Chicken Philly Cheesesteak

• Toss the chicken in Buffalo sauce before adding the cheese.
• Serve with a drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing for that classic Buffalo flavor.

4. Healthier Chicken Philly Cheesesteak

• Use whole wheat rolls and reduce the amount of cheese or substitute with a lighter cheese.
• Add extra veggies like spinach or zucchini for a nutrient boost.

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Substitutions and Variations

Here are some easy substitutions you can make to tailor the recipe to your preferences:

1. Chicken Thighs: For a juicier option, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts.
2. Cheese: If you prefer a different cheese, try using mozzarella, cheddar, or American cheese. You can even go classic Philly-style with Cheez Whiz.
3. Bread: If you can’t find hoagie rolls, use French baguettes, sub rolls, or ciabatta bread.
4. Garlic Powder: If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can substitute garlic powder (about ½ teaspoon) for convenience.
5. Dairy-Free: Use a plant-based cheese and a dairy-free butter substitute to make the recipe dairy-free.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create a delicious Chicken Philly Cheesesteak:

1. Prep the Chicken:
   Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning, tossing to coat evenly. Set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
   In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms (if using), and sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and lightly browned. Stir in the garlic during the last minute. Remove the vegetables from the skillet and set aside.
3. Cook the Chicken:
   In the same skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil (and butter if using). Add the seasoned chicken strips and cook for about 5-6 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned. Be sure to stir occasionally for even cooking. Once done, add the sautéed vegetables back into the skillet and mix everything together.
4. Melt the Cheese:
   Reduce the heat to low, place the slices of provolone cheese over the chicken and vegetable mixture, and cover the skillet with a lid. Let the cheese melt for about 2 minutes until gooey and fully melted.
5. Toast the Rolls:
   While the cheese is melting, lightly toast the hoagie rolls in the oven or on a dry skillet until slightly crispy on the outside but still soft on the inside. Spread a little mayonnaise (optional) on the insides of the rolls.
6. Assemble the Sandwiches:
   Once the cheese is melted, divide the cheesy chicken and vegetable mixture evenly among the toasted rolls. Pile the filling high for that classic Philly cheesesteak look.
7. Serve:
   Serve the sandwiches immediately with your favorite sides like fries, potato chips, or a side salad. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a bit of color if desired.

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How to Cook Chicken Philly Cheesesteak: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Step 1: Slice and season the chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
2. Step 2: Sauté the onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms until softened, then set aside.
3. Step 3: Cook the chicken strips in the same skillet until fully cooked and browned.
4. Step 4: Return the vegetables to the skillet and place cheese on top. Let it melt over low heat.
5. Step 5: Toast the hoagie rolls and spread mayonnaise on the inside.
6. Step 6: Assemble the sandwiches with the cheesy chicken mixture and serve hot.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Chicken: Chicken breasts can dry out quickly, so be sure not to overcook them. Aim for juicy, tender chicken by cooking it just until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
2. Not Melting the Cheese Properly: Make sure to reduce the heat and cover the skillet to help the cheese melt evenly and create that gooey, cheesy layer.
3. Soggy Rolls: If your rolls are too soft, they may get soggy from the filling. Lightly toasting the rolls helps create a sturdier base for the filling.
4. Overloading the Sandwich: While a full sandwich is satisfying, be careful not to overfill it, or you’ll have a hard time keeping it together while eating!

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Serving and Presentation Tips

To make your Chicken Philly Cheesesteak even more mouthwatering, here are some tips for serving and presentation:

1. Cut Diagonally: Slice the sandwiches in half diagonally for a cleaner, more appealing presentation.
2. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions adds a touch of color and freshness.
3. Serve with Pickles: A side of pickles or pickled jalapeños adds a nice tangy crunch that complements the rich, cheesy filling.
4. Pair with Sides: Serve with fries, potato chips, or a light green salad to round out the meal.

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How to Serve Chicken Philly Cheesesteak

These sandwiches are a meal in themselves, but they pair well with various sides and drinks:

• Fries: Classic fries or sweet potato fries make a great side.
• Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy coleslaw can add freshness and balance the richness of the sandwich.
• Potato Chips: Keep it simple with a bag of your favorite potato chips.
• Salad: A light green salad with a lemon vinaigrette or Caesar dressing complements the cheesesteak beautifully.
• Pickles: Serve with dill pickles or pickled peppers for a tangy contrast to the cheesy filling.

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Presentation Ideas for Chicken Philly Cheesesteak

1. Individual Sandwich Boards: Serve each sandwich on a wooden board with a side of fries and pickles for a rustic, bistro-style presentation.
2. Cast-Iron Skillet: Present the cheesy chicken and vegetable mixture in a cast-iron skillet at the table, allowing everyone to build their own sandwiches.
3. Mini Sandwiches: For a party or casual gathering, make mini Chicken Philly Cheesesteak sliders using small rolls or buns.

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Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe Tips

1. Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and vegetable mixture ahead of time and reheat when ready to assemble the sandwiches.
2. Leftovers: Store leftover filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave and make fresh sandwiches anytime.
3. Freezing: Freeze the cooked chicken and vegetable mixture for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat before assembling the sandwiches.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
   Yes, chicken thighs work great in this recipe and will provide even juicier, more flavorful results.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Absolutely! You can cook the chicken and vegetables in advance, then simply reheat and assemble the sandwiches when you're ready to serve.
3. What other cheese can I use?
   Besides provolone, you can use mozzarella, cheddar, American cheese, or even the traditional Cheez Whiz for a more classic Philly-style sandwich.
4. Can I freeze the filling?
   Yes! The chicken and vegetable filling freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.
5. What are good sides to serve with Chicken Philly Cheesesteak?
   Serve with classic sides like fries, potato chips, or a light green salad. Pickles or coleslaw are also great options.

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Conclusion

This Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe is a delicious and satisfying twist on the classic cheesesteak sandwich. With juicy, seasoned chicken, sautéed peppers and onions, and gooey melted cheese all packed into a soft hoagie roll, it’s the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re making this for a family dinner, a game day treat, or just because you're craving something delicious, this recipe is sure to please. Customize it with your favorite ingredients and enjoy the perfect balance of flavors and textures in every bite! Happy cooking!

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