If you’re craving a hearty sandwich packed with tender chicken, melty cheese, and vibrant sautéed veggies, look no further than this Chicken Cheese Steak Sandwiches Recipe. It takes the classic cheesesteak concept and elevates it with juicy, seasoned chicken breast alongside colorful bell peppers and mushrooms, all embraced by soft hoagie rolls. The simplicity of fresh ingredients and straightforward cooking makes this recipe a go-to for a satisfying weeknight meal that your whole family will adore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Chicken Cheese Steak Sandwiches Recipe is essential to creating layers of flavor and texture. From perfectly seasoned chicken to the crispness of bell peppers and the rich melt of provolone cheese, each component works together harmoniously.
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast thinly sliced: Slicing thin ensures quick cooking and tender bites throughout the sandwich.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used to sauté both the chicken and vegetables, adding a subtle fruity richness.
- 1 medium onion thinly sliced: Brings natural sweetness and depth when caramelized.
- 1 green bell pepper thinly sliced: Offers a crisp, slightly bitter contrast for freshness and color.
- 1 red bell pepper thinly sliced: Adds sweetness and vibrant red hue for visual appeal.
- 8 ounces mushrooms sliced (optional): Provides an earthy component that enhances umami flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic minced: Delivers a warm, aromatic kick that complements the savory fillings.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural flavors of all the ingredients.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Imparts a smoky undertone and a hint of color.
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that introduces a subtle herbal note.
- 6 hoagie rolls split: The perfect vessel to hold and showcase the flavorful filling.
- 6 slices provolone cheese or 1 1/2 cups shredded provolone (optional): Melts beautifully over the chicken mixture, creating creamy indulgence.
- Mayonnaise or cheese sauce for serving (optional): Adds creaminess if you want an extra touch of decadence.
How to Make Chicken Cheese Steak Sandwiches Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the thinly sliced chicken breast and season it generously with salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Cook for about 5 to 6 minutes, stirring often to brown the pieces evenly. The aroma at this stage is irresistible, signaling tender, juicy chicken ready to be combined with those flavorful veggies.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set it aside. Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, then introduce the thinly sliced onion, green and red bell peppers, plus the optional mushrooms. Let them cook over medium heat for 6 to 8 minutes until they soften and begin to caramelize lightly. This step brings out the sweetness of the vegetables, balancing the savory notes from the chicken.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Combine
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds until fragrant — garlic quickly releases its flavor, so no need to overdo it here. Return the browned chicken to the skillet and toss everything together, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly.
Step 4: Melt the Cheese
Reduce the heat to medium and drape the provolone cheese over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Cover the skillet for about 1 to 2 minutes to let the cheese melt into a luscious blanket. This gooey layer is what transforms the filling into an irresistible, melty masterpiece.
Step 5: Assemble the Sandwiches
Finally, fill each split hoagie roll generously with the cheesy chicken and veggie filling. For an extra touch, lightly toast your hoagie rolls before filling to add crunch and prevent sogginess. Serve these sandwiches hot for the ultimate comforting bite.
How to Serve Chicken Cheese Steak Sandwiches Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few thin slices of pickled jalapeños can brighten the flavors and add exciting contrast. You might also spread a thin layer of mayonnaise or your favorite cheese sauce inside the rolls for extra creaminess and tang.
Side Dishes
These sandwiches pair beautifully with classic sides like crispy French fries or a fresh green salad for balance. Roasted sweet potato wedges or crunchy coleslaw can also complement the rich and cheesy nature of these sandwiches wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, cut the sandwiches into smaller sliders, perfect for sharing at a party or casual get-together. Alternatively, serve open-faced sandwiches topped with extra cheese broiled until bubbly for an impressive and gooey presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover filling, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the hoagie rolls separate to prevent them from becoming soggy.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken and vegetable mixture before assembling. Portion the filling into freezer-safe containers or bags, and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating and assembling your sandwiches.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the filling in a skillet over medium heat until hot, then add cheese and cover until melted. Toast the rolls slightly, then assemble for a fresh-from-the-kitchen feel. Avoid microwaving the sandwich assembled, as it can make the bread chewy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While provolone is traditional for its meltiness and mild flavor, mozzarella, American cheese, or even cheddar can work wonderfully depending on your taste preferences.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes. Simply substitute the hoagie rolls with your favorite gluten-free bread or rolls. The filling itself is naturally gluten-free.
Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
Definitely! You can make the chicken and vegetable filling a day ahead and refrigerate. When ready, reheat and melt the cheese before assembling your sandwiches.
What if I don’t like mushrooms?
No problem. Mushrooms are optional in this recipe and can be left out without affecting the overall deliciousness of the sandwich.
How do I get perfectly thinly sliced chicken breast?
For easy thin slicing, slightly freeze the chicken breasts for about 20-30 minutes before slicing. This firms them up and allows you to cut thin, even pieces more safely and easily.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Cheese Steak Sandwiches Recipe is just one of those dishes that’s so simple yet absolutely satisfying. Whether you’re feeding the family or looking for a speedy dinner fix, the combination of juicy seasoned chicken, melty cheese, and sweet sautéed peppers is sure to hit the spot. Give it a try and watch how quickly these sandwiches become a favorite in your recipe rotation!
Print
Chicken Cheese Steak Sandwiches Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 sandwiches
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: High-Protein
Description
These Chicken Cheese Steak Sandwiches are a delicious twist on the classic Philly cheesesteak, swapping beef for tender, seasoned chicken breast cooked with sautéed onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms, all topped with melted provolone cheese and served in soft hoagie rolls. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, this skillet recipe delivers savory flavor and satisfying texture in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
Vegetables
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Assembling
- 6 hoagie rolls, split
- 6 slices provolone cheese or 1 1/2 cups shredded provolone
- Mayonnaise or cheese sauce for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced chicken, then season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring frequently, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the vegetables: Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Add the sliced onion, green and red bell peppers, and mushrooms if using. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes until the vegetables are softened and lightly caramelized.
- Add garlic and combine: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss everything together to combine evenly.
- Melt the cheese: Reduce the heat to medium. Place the provolone cheese slices over the chicken and vegetable mixture, then cover the skillet. Let it cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the cheese has melted.
- Assemble the sandwiches: Spoon the cheesy chicken and vegetable mixture into the split hoagie rolls. Add optional mayonnaise or cheese sauce if desired. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- For extra flavor and texture, lightly toast the hoagie rolls before filling them.
- You can substitute provolone cheese with mozzarella or American cheese depending on your preference.
- If you prefer, add other vegetables such as sliced jalapeños or spinach for a twist.
- Use fresh herbs or additional spices to customize the flavor profile.
- Leftover filling can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated on the stovetop.
