This Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet is a delightful and easy one-pan dinner that’s great for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking for a quick meal after a busy day, this dish offers the classic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with a lighter twist. With juicy sliced chicken, sautéed peppers and onions, and melty provolone cheese, it’s an irresistible meal that can be ready in just 30 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- One-Pan Wonder: Reduce cleanup time with this simple skillet recipe—everything cooks in one pan!
- Flavorful and Satisfying: Enjoy the rich flavors of chicken, peppers, and cheese, reminiscent of classic cheesesteaks.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve as-is, with hoagie rolls, over rice, or on a bed of greens for a low-carb option.
- Family-Friendly Meal: This dish appeals to both kids and adults alike, making it an ideal choice for families.
Tools and Preparation
To make your Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: A spacious skillet allows for even cooking of the chicken and veggies without overcrowding.
- Sharp knife: A sharp knife ensures smooth slicing of chicken and vegetables for consistent cooking.
- Spatula or wooden spoon: These help in stirring ingredients without scratching your skillet’s surface.
Ingredients
For the Skillet
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 yellow onion, halved and thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1¼ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 1½ teaspoons Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet
Step 1: Heat the Oil
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the sliced onion and bell peppers to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper.
* Sauté until vegetables are soft and tender, about 6–8 minutes.
* Transfer the sautéed vegetables to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Add the thinly sliced chicken along with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and additional salt and pepper.
* Spread the chicken in a single layer.
* Let it cook undisturbed for 2–3 minutes to brown.
* Continue sautéing until fully cooked through, about 5–7 more minutes.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Return the cooked peppers and onions (along with any juices) to the skillet. Stir to combine with the chicken.
Step 5: Melt the Cheese
Sprinkle shredded provolone cheese evenly over the top.
* Cover the skillet with a lid.
* Let sit until cheese is melted, about 2 minutes.
Step 6: Serve
Serve hot as-is or pair with hoagie rolls, rice, or over greens for a low-carb option. Enjoy your delicious Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet!
How to Serve Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet
This Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet is versatile and can be served in various ways to suit your taste. Here are some delicious ideas to enhance your meal.
With Hoagie Rolls
- Classic Option: Serve the skillet mixture piled high on a soft hoagie roll for a traditional cheesesteak experience.
- Garlic Butter Spread: Toast the rolls with garlic butter before filling them for added flavor.
Over Rice
- Fluffy White Rice: Spoon the chicken cheesesteak over fluffy white rice for a hearty meal.
- Brown Rice Variation: Use brown rice for a healthier option that adds a nutty flavor.
On Greens
- Fresh Spinach: Serve the skillet over a bed of fresh spinach for a low-carb, nutritious option.
- Mixed Greens Salad: Top mixed greens with the chicken mixture and drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette.
With Toppings
- Pickled Jalapeños: Add some kick by serving with pickled jalapeños on the side.
- Sliced Avocado: For creaminess, serve with slices of avocado or guacamole.
How to Perfect Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet
To ensure your Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh peppers and onions for maximum flavor and crunch.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Always taste as you go, adding more salt or pepper if needed.
- Let Cheese Melt Completely: Cover the skillet while melting cheese for an even gooey texture.
- Add Optional Veggies: Feel free to add mushrooms or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy while hot to appreciate the melted cheese and tender chicken.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet
Pairing side dishes with your Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet can elevate your meal. Here are some great options.
- French Fries: Crispy fries are always a hit and perfect for dipping in any extra sauce.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw provides crunch and balances the richness of the cheese.
- Potato Wedges: Seasoned wedges add heartiness and complement the flavors of the skillet dish.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brings sweetness that pairs well with savory chicken cheesesteak.
- Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons make this salad an excellent contrast.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies offer a healthy side that enhances your meal’s profile.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can make your Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet even better.
- Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your chicken and vegetables properly can lead to bland flavors. Always season each layer for the best taste.
- Overcrowding the skillet: If you add too many ingredients at once, they might steam instead of brown. Cook in batches to achieve that perfect sear.
- Using low-quality cheese: Using subpar cheese can affect the creaminess. Opt for good quality provolone or mozzarella for optimal melting.
- Cooking on high heat: Cooking at too high a temperature can burn your chicken and veggies. Stick to medium-high heat for even cooking.
- Not letting the cheese melt properly: Covering the skillet is crucial for melting cheese effectively. Don’t skip this step, as it ties all the flavors together.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking.
- Consume within 3–4 days for best quality.
Freezing Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet
- Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Freeze for up to 2–3 months.
- Label containers with the date for tracking freshness.
Reheating Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warm.
- Stovetop: Reheat on medium heat, stirring occasionally, until hot throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making a Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet.
Can I use different meats in my Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet?
Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey or beef if preferred. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
What is the best cheese for a Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet?
Provolone is traditional, but you can also use mozzarella or even cheddar for a different flavor profile.
How do I customize my Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet?
Feel free to add mushrooms, jalapeños, or other favorite veggies for extra flavor and texture.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the components ahead of time and combine them just before serving.
What should I serve with my Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet?
This dish pairs well with hoagie rolls, rice, or a fresh salad for a lighter option.
Final Thoughts
The Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet is not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor. This versatile dinner allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences. Give it a try tonight!
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