I still remember the first time I had a cheesesteak sandwich. It was at a small food truck, and the mix of tender meat, melted cheese, and sautéed peppers was pure comfort. But making an authentic Philly cheesesteak at home? That always seemed like too much effort—until I discovered this Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet!
This recipe takes the flavors of a classic cheesesteak and makes them easier, healthier, and quicker by swapping steak for chicken and skipping the heavy bread. It’s an ideal recipe for beginners because:
- It’s a one-pan dish – minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.
- Cooks in under 30 minutes – perfect for busy weeknights.
- Packed with protein and veggies – a well-balanced meal.
If you’re new to cooking and want a delicious, foolproof dinner, this is the recipe for you!
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Why This Recipe Is Special
A cheesesteak is traditionally a sandwich loaded with thinly sliced beef, onions, and melted cheese on a hoagie roll. This version keeps all the best parts—savory flavors, gooey cheese, and tender, thin-sliced protein—but uses lean chicken breast instead of steak.
The best part? It’s incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it in a sandwich, over rice, or even straight from the skillet for a low-carb option. Whether you’re meal-prepping or cooking for family, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit!
Ingredients and Their Roles
Each ingredient in this dish serves a purpose, adding to the texture and flavor.
- Olive oil – Helps sauté the veggies and chicken, adding a light richness.
- Yellow onion – Brings mild sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Red and green bell peppers – Add natural sweetness, crunch, and color.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – The lean protein base of the dish, best sliced thin for quick cooking.
- Italian seasoning & smoked paprika – A blend of herbs and smoky spice enhances the chicken’s flavor.
- Provolone cheese – The creamy, melty topping that pulls everything together.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Chicken thighs instead of breasts for extra juiciness.
- Mozzarella or cheddar if you don’t have provolone.
- Mushrooms for an extra umami kick.
- Butter instead of olive oil for a richer taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Thinly slice the chicken breasts into strips, similar to how you would for stir-fry or fajitas. Slice the onions and bell peppers into thin strips for even cooking.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers, seasoning with salt and pepper. Sauté until soft and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove them from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Place the thinly sliced chicken in a single layer and season with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let it cook undisturbed for a few minutes to get a nice golden-brown sear, then stir and continue cooking until the chicken is fully cooked (about 6-8 minutes).
Step 4: Combine Everything
Return the sautéed peppers and onions to the skillet with the cooked chicken. Stir everything together so the flavors meld.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Melt
Sprinkle the shredded provolone cheese over the top. Cover the skillet with a lid or foil for 1-2 minutes until the cheese melts into gooey perfection.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Remove from heat and serve immediately. You can eat it straight from the skillet, load it into hoagie rolls, or spoon it over rice or pasta.
Beginner Tips and Notes
- Thinly slice the chicken for even cooking. If cutting raw chicken is difficult, place it in the freezer for 20-30 minutes before slicing—it makes the process much easier!
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Giving the chicken room to sear properly adds flavor.
- If the chicken browns too quickly, reduce heat. This prevents it from drying out.
- For extra richness, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a bit of garlic powder while cooking the chicken.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ways to enjoy it:
- Classic Hoagie Style – Serve it in a toasted sub roll for a true cheesesteak experience.
- Over Rice or Pasta – A hearty, filling option for meal prep.
- Low-Carb Option – Enjoy it as a lettuce wrap or over a salad.
- Stuffed Peppers – Spoon the mixture into hollowed bell peppers, top with cheese, and bake for 10 minutes.
Storage and Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.
- If freezing, store in portioned bags without the cheese for up to 2 months. Add fresh cheese when reheating.
Try This Recipe and Share Your Experience!
This Easy Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet is a game-changer for quick, flavorful meals. Whether you’re new to cooking or just looking for a stress-free dinner, this recipe has got you covered.
If you try it, let me know how it turned out! Did you add your own twist? Leave a comment and share your thoughts. Happy cooking!
FAQ About Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet
Yes! Chicken thighs add extra juiciness and flavor. Just be sure to trim excess fat and cook until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Provolone is the classic choice, but mozzarella, cheddar, or even American cheese can work. For extra authenticity, try a mix of provolone and white American cheese.
Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking the chicken. You can also use spicy provolone or pepper jack cheese for extra heat.
Yes! You can slice the chicken, peppers, and onions in advance and store them in the fridge. When ready to cook, everything comes together in under 30 minutes.
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Easy Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet is a quick, one-pan meal loaded with tender chicken, sautéed peppers, onions, and gooey melted provolone cheese. Perfect for busy nights, this healthier take on the classic Philly cheesesteak is simple, flavorful, and ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 yellow onion, halved and thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 1/4 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Slice the onions and bell peppers into thin strips. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the sliced peppers and onions, season with salt and pepper, and sauté until softened and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Place the thinly sliced chicken in a single layer, then season with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let it cook undisturbed for a few minutes to develop a golden-brown sear, then stir and continue cooking until fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. The chicken is done when no pink remains and it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Combine Everything: Return the sautéed peppers and onions to the skillet with the cooked chicken. Stir to combine so the flavors meld together, allowing the mixture to heat through for another 1-2 minutes.
- Melt the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded provolone evenly over the top of the mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid or foil for 1-2 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted and gooey.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove from heat and serve immediately. Enjoy it on toasted hoagie rolls, over rice, or straight from the skillet with a side salad.
Notes
- For easier slicing, partially freeze the chicken for 20-30 minutes before cutting.
- If you prefer a crispier texture, broil the skillet for 1-2 minutes after adding the cheese.
- For a low-carb version, serve it in lettuce wraps or over cauliflower rice.
- To add more flavor, mix in a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of garlic powder while cooking the chicken.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 362 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 317mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 54g
- Cholesterol: 126mg