The chicken Philly cheesesteak recipe is a mouthwatering twist on the classic Philly cheesesteak, replacing beef with juicy, seasoned chicken. Packed with melted cheese, sautéed onions, and bell peppers, this sandwich is the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or a game-day snack, this recipe delivers big on flavor and satisfaction.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to make the best chicken Philly cheesesteak with simple ingredients and expert tips. Let’s dive into the secrets of crafting a perfect sandwich!
What Is a Chicken Philly Cheesesteak recipe?
A chicken Philly cheesesteak is a variation of the traditional Philly cheesesteak, using thinly sliced chicken instead of beef. It’s cooked on a griddle with onions, peppers, and seasonings, then topped with gooey melted cheese and served on a hoagie roll.
Origin of the Philly Cheesesteak recipe
The Philly cheesesteak originated in Philadelphia in the 1930s. Traditionally made with thinly sliced ribeye steak and melted cheese, the sandwich became a local legend. The chicken version offers a leaner but equally delicious alternative.
Why Choose Chicken Over Beef?
- Healthier option: Chicken is lower in fat than beef.
- Lighter flavor: Allows the seasonings and cheese to shine.
- Quick to cook: Chicken cooks faster, making it perfect for busy nights.
Ingredients for the Ultimate Chicken Philly Cheesesteak recipe
To make the best chicken Philly cheesesteak, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients:
Essential Ingredients
- Chicken breast (thinly sliced or shredded) – 2 large pieces
- Hoagie rolls – 4 fresh, soft rolls
- Bell peppers (red, green, or yellow) – 1 cup, thinly sliced
- Onion (yellow or white) – 1 medium, sliced
- Provolone cheese – 4-6 slices
- Garlic powder – 1 tsp
- Salt & pepper – To taste
- Olive oil or butter – 2 tbsp
Optional Additions
- Mushrooms – Adds depth of flavor.
- Banana peppers or jalapeños – For extra spice.
- Mayo or aioli – For a creamy touch.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.
- Thinly slice the onions and bell peppers for even cooking.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
- Add olive oil or butter, then toss in the chicken.
- Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Sauté the Veggies
- In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed.
- Toss in the onions and peppers, cooking until soft and slightly caramelized (about 5 minutes).
- Mix the cooked chicken back in.
Step 4: Melt the Cheese
- Reduce heat to low.
- Place slices of provolone cheese over the chicken mixture.
- Cover with a lid for about 1-2 minutes until the cheese melts.
Step 5: Assemble the Sandwich
- Toast the hoagie rolls lightly for extra crunch.
- Load them up with the cheesy chicken mixture.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Chicken Philly Cheesesteak recipe
Choosing the Right Bread
The hoagie roll is crucial! It should be soft inside but slightly crispy outside. Toasting it lightly enhances the texture.
Best Cheese for Chicken philly Cheesesteak recipe
- Provolone – Classic, melty, and slightly sharp.
- White American cheese – Creamy and smooth.
- Cheez Whiz – A more indulgent option.
Pro Cooking Tips
- Use a griddle for an authentic cheesesteak texture.
- Slice chicken thinly for quick, even cooking.
- Let the cheese melt naturally over the chicken for the best flavor.
Variations of the Chicken Philly Cheesesteak recipe
Spicy Chicken Philly
- Add jalapeños or hot sauce for extra heat.
- Sprinkle red pepper flakes while cooking.
BBQ Chicken Philly
- Toss the chicken in BBQ sauce for a smoky twist.
- Use cheddar cheese instead of provolone.
Keto-Friendly Version
- Serve without the bun or use lettuce wraps.
- Use low-carb cheese like mozzarella.
What to Serve with Chicken Philly Cheesesteak recipe
Side Dish Ideas
- French fries – Classic pairing.
- Coleslaw – Adds crunch and freshness.
- Sweet potato fries – A healthier alternative.
- Pickles – For a tangy contrast.
Best Dipping Sauces
- Garlic aioli – Creamy and rich.
- Honey mustard – A sweet-savory combo.
- Chipotle mayo – Smoky and spicy.
How to Store and Reheat Chicken Philly Cheesesteak recipe
Storing Leftovers Properly
If you have leftovers, don’t worry! Your Chicken Philly Cheesesteak can still taste great the next day. Here’s how to store it properly:
- Separate Components: Store the chicken and veggie mixture separately from the hoagie rolls to prevent sogginess.
- Airtight Container: Place the cooked chicken mixture in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days.
- Freezing Option: You can freeze the cooked chicken and veggie mixture for up to 2 months. However, cheese and hoagie rolls don’t freeze well.
Best Way to Reheat
Want to enjoy your cheesesteak as fresh as possible? Use these reheating methods:
1. Stovetop (Best Option)
- Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat.
- Add a small amount of butter or oil.
- Toss in the chicken mixture and heat for 3–5 minutes.
- Once warm, place a slice of cheese on top and cover for 1 minute to let it melt.
2. Oven
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread the chicken mixture on a baking sheet and cover with foil.
- Heat for 10–12 minutes.
- Add cheese during the last 2 minutes to melt it perfectly.
3. Microwave (Fastest, But Least Recommended)
- Place the chicken mixture in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.
- Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warm.
- Add cheese on top and microwave for 10–15 seconds until melted.
Tip: Always re-toast the hoagie rolls in the oven or stovetop for a crispy texture!
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making a Chicken Philly Cheesesteak recipe
1. Using the Wrong Type of Chicken
- Mistake: Using thick-cut chicken breast instead of thinly sliced pieces.
- Fix: Slice the chicken as thin as possible to ensure even cooking and the right texture.
2. Overcooking the Chicken
- Mistake: Cooking chicken on high heat for too long, making it dry.
- Fix: Cook on medium-high heat and remove from heat as soon as it’s done.
3. Not Cooking the Vegetables Properly
- Mistake: Undercooking or overcooking the onions and peppers.
- Fix: Sauté veggies separately before mixing them with the chicken. This ensures the right balance of softness and crunch.
4. Skipping the Cheese Melting Step
- Mistake: Just placing cheese on the sandwich instead of melting it into the chicken.
- Fix: Melt cheese directly on the skillet with the chicken and veggies before assembling the sandwich.
5. Using the Wrong Bread
- Mistake: Using soft sandwich bread instead of hoagie rolls.
- Fix: Use authentic hoagie rolls and lightly toast them before serving.
FAQ
What goes on a chicken Philly cheesesteak?
A classic chicken Philly cheesesteak includes thinly sliced chicken, sautéed onions, bell peppers, and melted cheese, all served on a hoagie roll. Some variations add mushrooms, jalapeños, or different sauces.
What is the secret ingredient in Philly cheesesteak?
The secret ingredient in a great Philly cheesesteak is Worcestershire sauce. It enhances the umami flavor and makes the meat extra savory. Some also believe the bread choice and proper cheese melting technique are key secrets!
What is a chicken cheesesteak called?
A chicken cheesesteak is sometimes called a “Chicken Philly” or “Chicken Philly Cheesesteak”. It’s a variation of the Philly cheesesteak, using chicken instead of beef.
What makes it a Philly cheesesteak?
A Philly cheesesteak is defined by its thinly sliced meat, grilled onions, and melted cheese, all served on a hoagie roll. The authentic Philly cheesesteak traditionally uses beef, but the chicken version follows the same technique with a lighter protein.
Conclusion
This amazing ultimate 5 chicken Philly cheesesteak recipe delivers big flavor, melty cheese, and juicy chicken in every bite. Whether you’re making a classic version or experimenting with spicy or BBQ twists, this sandwich is a winner. Try it today and experience a Philly favorite in a new way!