Ultimate Chicken Cheesesteak

Indulge in the savory delight of homemade Chicken Cheesesteak Sandwiches, a perfect weeknight meal packed with tender chicken, sautéed peppers, caramelized onions, and gooey melted cheese. This easy-to-follow recipe brings the iconic flavors of a classic cheesesteak right into your kitchen, with a delicious chicken twist and an optional, irresistible garlic mayo.

For fellow cheesesteak enthusiasts, you might also enjoy exploring our Spicy Cajun Cheesesteak Sandwich for a kick, or our speedy 30 Minute Cheesesteak Recipe when time is of the essence.

The Irresistible Allure of Chicken Cheesesteak Sandwiches

There’s something uniquely satisfying about a well-crafted sandwich. The harmonious blend of fresh ingredients, textures, and flavors encased within two slices of bread creates a meal that’s both comforting and incredibly versatile. While traditionalists might argue about the true essence of a “cheesesteak” (especially when it comes to the inclusion of peppers or the choice of meat), we believe deliciousness transcends strict definitions. This chicken-centric version, brimming with savory chicken, vibrant peppers, sweet onions, and luscious cheese, offers a delightful alternative that’s just as fulfilling and remarkably easy to prepare.

Our rendition of the Chicken Cheesesteak Sandwich stands out not just for its ease and speed, making it a perfect contender for busy weeknight dinners, but also for its exceptional flavor profile. We elevate this classic with a quick homemade garlic mayo, a simple addition that transforms the sandwich from great to truly unforgettable. While entirely optional, this creamy, garlicky spread adds an extra layer of richness and zest that beautifully complements the savory filling. Once you try it, you might find it hard to go back!

Essential Ingredients for Your Chicken Cheesesteak Masterpiece

Crafting the perfect Chicken Cheesesteak Sandwich begins with selecting the right ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and why each component plays a crucial role:

• Mayonnaise: The base for our optional but highly recommended garlic mayo. Feel free to use your preferred variety, whether regular for a richer taste or a low-fat option for a lighter touch.
• Fresh Garlic: Absolutely essential for that pungent, aromatic kick in the garlic mayo. Finely mince or even grate the cloves to ensure the flavor is thoroughly infused throughout the mayonnaise. Fresh garlic makes all the difference compared to dried garlic powder here.
• Vibrant Vegetables: You’ll need two bell peppers and one medium onion. We love the visual appeal and balanced flavor of one green and one red bell pepper, but don’t hesitate to use any color combination you fancy. The onion, sliced into half-moons, will caramelize beautifully, adding a sweet depth to the savory filling.
• Tender Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are our go-to for their lean protein and ease of slicing. However, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can also be used for a juicier, richer flavor profile. Ensure the chicken is thinly sliced for quick and even cooking.
• Simple Seasonings: We keep the seasoning straightforward yet effective: Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This blend ensures the chicken is flavorful without overpowering the other ingredients, creating a balanced and savory experience.
• Neutral Cooking Oil: A good quality neutral oil is key for sautéing both the chicken and vegetables. Olive oil, vegetable oil, canola oil, or avocado oil all work wonderfully, providing the necessary heat transfer without imparting a strong flavor of their own.
• Perfect Rolls: The foundation of any great sandwich! While we’ve experimented with soft deli rolls, we’ve found that a sturdy Italian roll yields the best results. It’s crucial for the roll to hold up to the juicy filling without becoming soggy, providing the ideal texture contrast to the tender ingredients.
• Melted Cheese: Sliced provolone is our cheese of choice for its excellent melting properties and mild, creamy flavor that complements the chicken and veggies. However, feel free to experiment with other melting cheeses like American, white cheddar, or even a Monterey Jack for a different twist.

Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Chicken Cheesesteak Sandwiches

Follow these simple steps to create incredibly flavorful and satisfying Chicken Cheesesteak Sandwiches:

Prep the Garlic Mayo and Vegetables

STEP 1: Prepare Your Garlic Mayo. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise with the finely minced or grated fresh garlic. Stir well to ensure the garlic is evenly distributed. We recommend making this first and refrigerating it while you prepare the other components. This allows the flavors to meld and deepen, enhancing the overall taste of your sandwich.

STEP 2: Slice Your Vegetables. Begin by washing your bell peppers and carefully removing the seeds and membranes. Slice them into thin, uniform strips. Next, peel and cut your onion into thin half-moon slices. Aim for consistent sizes to ensure they cook evenly and caramelize beautifully. Set these aside; they’re ready for the skillet.

Prepare the Chicken

STEP 3: Slice the Chicken. Take your boneless, skinless chicken breasts and slice them into thin strips. For easier handling and quicker cooking, try to make these strips bite-sized or slightly larger. If your chicken is partially frozen, slicing can be much simpler and more precise.

STEP 4: Season the Chicken. Place the chicken strips in a bowl or directly onto your cutting board. Generously sprinkle them with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and a good amount of salt. Add freshly ground black pepper to taste. Using tongs or your hands (ensure they are clean!), toss the chicken thoroughly to make sure every piece is evenly coated with the spices. This step is crucial for building deep flavor.

Cook the Filling

STEP 5: Cook the Chicken. Heat one tablespoon of your chosen oil in a large skillet or non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the seasoned chicken strips in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is thoroughly cooked through and beautifully browned on all sides. This usually takes about 5-8 minutes, depending on the thickness of your slices. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and transfer it to a plate, keeping any remaining juices in the pan.

STEP 6: Sauté the Vegetables. Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the same skillet. Once hot, add your sliced bell peppers and onions. Cook them for several minutes, stirring frequently, until they begin to soften and develop a slight caramelization around the edges. You want them to be crisp-tender, not mushy, so they still have a pleasant bite when you enjoy your sandwich.

Assemble and Finish

STEP 7: Combine the Filling. Once your vegetables reach the desired crisp-tender stage, return the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the peppers and onions. Toss everything together gently and cook for another 1-2 minutes, just long enough to ensure the entire filling is heated through and well combined.

STEP 8: Build and Broil the Sandwiches. Preheat your oven’s broiler. Arrange your hoagie rolls on a baking sheet. Slice the rolls lengthwise, but not all the way through, creating a hinge. Generously spread the prepared garlic mayo on the inside of both halves of each roll. Spoon a hearty portion of the chicken and pepper mixture into each roll. Top each sandwich with two slices of provolone cheese, ensuring it covers the filling. Place the baking sheet under the preheated broiler for a short period (usually 1-3 minutes). Keep a very close eye on them, as broilers can quickly toast bread and melt cheese. You want the cheese to be bubbly and perfectly melted, and the rolls lightly toasted.

STEP 9: Serve Immediately. Carefully remove the hot sandwiches from the oven. Serve your delicious Chicken Cheesesteak Sandwiches warm, perhaps alongside some crispy potato chips, a fresh green salad, or a side of coleslaw for a complete meal. Enjoy the irresistible combination of tender chicken, sweet peppers, and gooey cheese!

Expert Tips and Smart Tricks for Success

• Slicing Chicken: For easier and thinner slicing, place your chicken breasts in the freezer for about 15-20 minutes before cutting. This firms up the meat, making it much simpler to achieve uniform, thin strips.
• Make Ahead Option: The chicken and vegetable filling can be prepared in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the filling in a skillet over medium heat until warm, then assemble and broil your sandwiches.
• Preventing Soggy Rolls: To ensure your rolls remain perfectly toasted and never soggy, always assemble and broil the sandwiches just before serving. The garlic mayo also acts as a slight barrier to moisture, but immediate serving is key for optimal texture.
• Garlic Mayo Customization: While we highly recommend the garlic mayo for its incredible flavor boost, it’s entirely optional. If you prefer a simpler sandwich or have dietary restrictions, feel free to omit it. You could also try other spreads like a creamy horseradish sauce or a spicy sriracha mayo for a different flavor profile.
• Broiler Watch: When broiling, never leave the sandwiches unattended. Broilers can go from perfectly melted cheese to burnt toast in a matter of seconds. Stay close and watch for that golden-brown, bubbly perfection.
• Choosing Your Cheese: Provolone is a classic for cheesesteaks due to its mild flavor and excellent melt. However, don’t shy away from experimenting! White American cheese, Monterey Jack, or even a sharp cheddar can offer delightful variations.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Cheesesteak Sandwiches

Here are answers to some common questions you might have about making these delicious sandwiches:

Can I use a different cut of chicken?

Yes, absolutely! While chicken breasts are lean and easy to slice, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used for a juicier and more flavorful filling. Just ensure they are thinly sliced and cooked through.

What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?

No problem! You can create your own blend by combining dried oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary, and marjoram. A pinch of red pepper flakes can also add a subtle warmth if desired.

Can I add other vegetables?

Certainly! Mushrooms, thinly sliced zucchini, or even a touch of jalapeño for heat would be excellent additions. Just ensure they are sautéed until tender before combining with the chicken.

How do I prevent the rolls from getting soggy?

The best way to prevent soggy rolls is to assemble and broil the sandwiches just before serving. The garlic mayo also creates a slight barrier. Using a sturdy Italian roll instead of a very soft deli roll also helps significantly.

Can I freeze the chicken cheesesteak filling?

Yes, the cooked chicken and vegetable filling can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight, freezer-safe container or bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating and assembling your sandwiches.

Is this an authentic cheesesteak?

While traditional Philly cheesesteaks are made with thinly sliced beef (usually ribeye) and Cheez Whiz or provolone, our chicken version offers a delicious twist on the classic. It captures the spirit of a cheesesteak with its tender meat, sautéed vegetables, and melted cheese on a roll, making it a fantastic and widely loved variation.

Explore More Delicious Sandwich Recipes

If you’re a sandwich lover like us, you’ll definitely want to try these other fantastic recipes:

• Monte Cristo Sandwich: A sweet and savory delight perfect for breakfast or brunch.
• Italian Beef Sandwiches: Tender, slow-cooked beef packed into a flavorful roll.
• Club Sandwich: A classic, layered sandwich that never disappoints.

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Chicken Cheesesteak Sandwiches

Author: Deborah Harroun

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Servings: 6 sandwiches

Course: Main Dish

Cuisine: American

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Filled with chicken, peppers, onions, and cheese, these easy Chicken Cheesesteak Sandwiches are a weeknight dinner win!

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper
• 1 green bell pepper
• 1 medium yellow onion
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• Pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons oil, divided (olive, vegetable, canola, or avocado oil)
• 6 hoagie rolls
• 12 slices provolone cheese

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise and the minced garlic. Refrigerate until needed to allow flavors to meld.
2. Remove the seeds from both the green and red peppers and cut them into thin slices. Cut the onion into thin half-moon slices.
3. Thinly slice the chicken breasts into bite-sized strips. Season them evenly with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
4. Preheat your oven’s broiler.
5. Heat 1 tablespoon of the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned (approximately 5-8 minutes). Remove the chicken to a plate.
6. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the same skillet. Add the sliced peppers and onion and cook until they are crisp-tender and starting to caramelize on the edges.
7. Add the cooked chicken back to the pan with the vegetables. Stir and cook for 1-2 more minutes to ensure everything is hot and well combined.
8. Place the hoagie rolls on a baking sheet. Spread the prepared garlic mayo generously on the inside of both sides of the rolls. Fill each roll with a portion of the chicken and pepper mixture. Top each sandwich with 2 slices of provolone cheese.
9. Place the baking sheet under the preheated broiler. Cook until the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly, and the buns are lightly toasted (approximately 1-3 minutes). Watch carefully to prevent burning.
10. Serve your homemade Chicken Cheesesteak Sandwiches warm and enjoy!

Recipe Notes:

You can use any neutral cooking oil such as olive oil, vegetable oil, canola oil, or avocado oil for cooking the chicken and vegetables.

Nutrition information provided is an estimate only. Various brands and products can change the counts. Any nutritional information should be used as a general guide.

Nutrition Information (Per 1 sandwich serving – estimated)

Calories: 628 kcal (31%)
Carbohydrates: 44g (15%)
Protein: 36g (72%)
Fat: 34g (52%)
Saturated Fat: 10g (63%)
Polyunsaturated Fat: 11g
Monounsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 92mg (31%)
Sodium: 1001mg (44%)
Potassium: 520mg (15%)
Fiber: 2g (8%)
Sugar: 7g (8%)

Keywords: chicken cheesesteak, chicken sandwich, easy dinner, weeknight meal