Craving a Philly cheesesteak but want to switch things up? This Chicken Philly Cheesesteak recipe takes the iconic flavors of the classic cheesesteak and substitutes beef with juicy, seasoned chicken. Packed with tender chicken, sautéed peppers and onions, and melted cheese in a toasted hoagie roll, it’s a perfect option for a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty lunch.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced or cubed
1 tbsp olive oil
1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp paprika
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper, to taste
6 slices provolone cheese (or substitute with American cheese or Cheez Whiz)
4 hoagie rolls or sub rolls
Butter, for toasting the rolls

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Thinly slice or cube the chicken for quick and even cooking.
In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken evenly with the seasoning.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add onions and bell peppers, sautéing for 5-7 minutes until soft and slightly caramelized.
Stir in minced garlic during the last minute of cooking. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed and increase heat to medium-high.
Add seasoned chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes until fully cooked and slightly browned.
Stir in Worcestershire sauce in the last minute of cooking.

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Vegetables

Lower the heat to medium and return the sautéed vegetables to the skillet. Mix well.
Divide the mixture into four sections in the skillet for each sandwich.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Place 1-2 slices of provolone cheese over each portion.
Cover the skillet and let the cheese melt for 1-2 minutes.

Step 6: Toast the Hoagie Rolls

Butter the insides of the hoagie rolls and toast them in a separate skillet or under the broiler until golden brown.

Step 7: Assemble the Sandwiches

Use a spatula to transfer each cheesy chicken portion into the toasted rolls.

Step 8: Serve

Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh parsley or extra sautéed vegetables. Enjoy!

Nutrients (Per Serving – 1 Sandwich)

Calories: 510 kcal
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 880mg

The Origin of the Philly Cheesesteak

The Philly cheesesteak originated in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in the 1930s. Created by Pat and Harry Olivieri, the sandwich was first sold at a hot dog stand and quickly gained popularity. Traditionally made with thinly sliced ribeye steak, grilled onions, and melted cheese, the cheesesteak became an iconic dish in American cuisine.

Over time, variations of the Philly cheesesteak have emerged, catering to different dietary preferences and flavor profiles. The Chicken Philly Cheesesteak substitutes beef for chicken while keeping the essence of the sandwich intact. It offers a lighter alternative while still delivering the satisfying combination of melted cheese, sautéed onions, and peppers on a toasted roll.

Why Choose Chicken Over Beef?

Switching from beef to chicken in a Philly cheesesteak isn’t just about changing flavors—it’s also about making a healthier choice.

Lower in Fat and Calories – Chicken is naturally leaner than beef, making this version of the sandwich a healthier alternative while still keeping it flavorful and filling.
High in Protein – Chicken provides a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth, recovery, and overall health.
Easier to Digest – Some people find chicken to be lighter and easier on the stomach compared to red meat.
Still Just as Flavorful – The combination of seasonings, Worcestershire sauce, and sautéed veggies ensures that this sandwich packs just as much flavor as its beef counterpart.

The Perfect Blend of Flavors

A Chicken Philly Cheesesteak isn’t just about swapping beef for chicken—it’s about creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Tender and Juicy Chicken – The chicken is thinly sliced or cubed and cooked to perfection with a blend of spices that enhance its natural flavor.
Sautéed Peppers and Onions – The classic combination of red and green bell peppers with onions adds sweetness and depth to the sandwich.
Garlic and Worcestershire Sauce – These ingredients elevate the dish, bringing a savory umami kick that makes the sandwich irresistible.
Melted Cheese – Provolone, American cheese, or even Cheez Whiz can be used to create that signature gooey, creamy texture that makes every bite delicious.
Crispy, Buttery Hoagie Rolls – Toasting the rolls ensures they are warm, slightly crisp, and sturdy enough to hold the fillings without becoming soggy.

Choosing the Right Cheese for Your Chicken Philly Cheesesteak

The cheese you choose for your Chicken Philly Cheesesteak can impact the overall flavor and texture of the sandwich. Here are some popular options:

Provolone Cheese – A traditional and mild choice that melts beautifully over the chicken and veggies.
American Cheese – Creamy and slightly tangy, American cheese provides a smooth melt and a rich flavor.
Cheez Whiz – A controversial but authentic option in some parts of Philadelphia, Cheez Whiz adds a velvety, indulgent texture.
Mozzarella – If you want an extra stretch to your sandwich, mozzarella is a great melty option.
Pepper Jack – For those who like a bit of spice, pepper jack cheese adds heat and extra flavor.

Tips for Making the Best Chicken Philly Cheesesteak

To make the perfect Chicken Philly Cheesesteak, follow these tips:

Thinly Slice the Chicken – The thinner the slices, the faster and more evenly they cook. You can even freeze the chicken for 15 minutes before slicing to make it easier to cut.
Use a Hot Skillet – Cooking the chicken on medium-high heat ensures a quick sear, locking in the juices and flavor.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Give the chicken and veggies space to cook properly so they caramelize instead of steaming.
Melt the Cheese on the Chicken – Instead of just adding cheese to the sandwich, let it melt directly on the chicken and veggies in the pan for a more cohesive, cheesy bite.
Toast the Rolls – A crispy, buttery roll makes all the difference in texture. Lightly butter and toast them in a skillet or under the broiler before assembling.

Variations to Try

This recipe is incredibly versatile, and you can customize it to suit your preferences. Here are a few delicious variations:

Spicy Chicken Philly – Add sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
BBQ Chicken Philly – Toss the chicken in barbecue sauce before adding the cheese for a smoky, sweet twist.
Buffalo Chicken Philly – Mix the cooked chicken with Buffalo sauce and top with blue cheese or ranch dressing.
Mushroom & Swiss Chicken Philly – Add sautéed mushrooms and swap out provolone for Swiss cheese for a rich, earthy flavor.
Low-Carb Chicken Philly – Skip the roll and serve the chicken and veggies over a bed of lettuce or in a low-carb wrap.

Best Side Dishes to Serve with Chicken Philly Cheesesteak

While the Chicken Philly Cheesesteak is a meal on its own, pairing it with the right side dish makes it even better. Here are some great options:

French Fries – Classic, crispy fries complement the sandwich perfectly.
Sweet Potato Fries – A slightly healthier alternative with a hint of sweetness.
Onion Rings – Crispy, golden onion rings add extra crunch.
Coleslaw – A refreshing, tangy slaw balances the richness of the sandwich.
Pickles – The acidity of pickles cuts through the cheesy, savory flavors of the sandwich.
Side Salad – A fresh, simple salad with vinaigrette lightens up the meal.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

If you have leftovers, here’s how to keep them fresh:

Refrigerate – Store the cooked chicken and veggies in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the hoagie rolls separate to prevent sogginess.
Reheat – Warm the chicken mixture in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. You can also microwave it, but the texture will be best when reheated on the stovetop.
Freezing – While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the cooked chicken and veggie mixture for up to 2 months. Let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Conclusion

The Chicken Philly Cheesesteak is a fantastic alternative to the traditional beef version, offering a lighter but equally satisfying experience. With tender, flavorful chicken, melty cheese, and sautéed peppers and onions all packed into a crispy hoagie roll, this sandwich delivers a perfect balance of textures and flavors.

It’s easy to customize with different cheeses, seasonings, or spice levels, making it a go-to meal for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for lunch, dinner, or a game-day feast, this Chicken Philly Cheesesteak will quickly become a family favorite. Pair it with fries, onion rings, or a crisp salad for a complete meal, and enjoy the deliciousness of this iconic sandwich with a fresh twist!

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