Chicken Cheese Steak Sandwiches are a delicious twist on the classic Philly cheesesteak, swapping out beef for tender slices of chicken and layering them with sautéed onions, bell peppers, and melty provolone cheese. This comforting sandwich is hearty, full of flavor, and incredibly satisfying. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity—it uses everyday ingredients, comes together quickly, and can easily be customized to suit your taste.
The chicken is seasoned with a perfect balance of garlic, oregano, and a kick of cayenne (if desired), then pan-seared to perfection. The sautéed onions and bell peppers add sweetness and crunch, while the melted provolone cheese brings a creamy richness that ties it all together. Stuffed into a soft hoagie roll (or gluten-free alternative), this sandwich is ideal for weeknight dinners, game day gatherings, or any time you’re craving something warm and cheesy.
Whether you’re a fan of classic Philly cheesesteaks or simply looking for a new way to enjoy chicken, this recipe hits all the right notes. It’s flexible, quick to prepare, and guaranteed to become a family favorite. Let’s explore why this chicken cheese steak sandwich should be on your menu this week!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthier Twist – Uses chicken instead of beef, making it a lighter alternative without sacrificing flavor.
- Customizable – Easily adaptable with different veggies, cheeses, or spice levels.
- Crowd-Pleaser – Perfect for family dinners or casual entertaining.
- Gluten-Free Friendly – Simple swaps make it suitable for gluten-free diets.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, thinly sliced
- Oil or mayonnaise
- Garlic powder
- Oregano
- Cayenne (optional)
- Salt
- Pepper
- Onion, sliced
- Bell pepper, sliced
- Soy sauce (optional)
- Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- Provolone cheese slices
- Hoagie rolls or buns (optionally toasted)
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken while cooking.
- Cheese Swap: Try mozzarella, cheddar, or American cheese instead of provolone.
- Veggie Boost: Add mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrients and texture.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve in lettuce wraps instead of rolls.
- Saucy Style: Drizzle with garlic aioli or spicy mayo for extra flavor.
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1
Season the thinly sliced chicken with garlic powder, oregano, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
Step 2
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 3
In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed and sauté the sliced onions and bell peppers until soft and caramelized.
Step 4
Return the chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Add soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce (if using) and stir well to combine.
Step 5
Lower the heat and place slices of provolone cheese over the chicken mixture. Cover the skillet for a minute or two until the cheese melts.
Step 6
Scoop the cheesy chicken mixture into the toasted hoagie rolls. Serve hot.
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Slice chicken thinly for quicker, even cooking.
- Use a cast iron skillet for better caramelization.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if necessary.
- Toast the buns for extra texture and flavor.
- Use freshly grated cheese for better melt and taste.
How to Serve
Serve these sandwiches hot, with a side of crispy fries, coleslaw, or a light salad. Add pickles or a spicy dipping sauce for a fun twist. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or game-day meals.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover chicken mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken and veggie mixture for up to 2 months. Allow to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container.
Reheating
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Assemble into buns after reheating.
FAQs
1. Can I use rotisserie chicken instead?
Yes, just slice or shred and add it to the sautéed vegetables before melting the cheese.
2. Is there a vegetarian version of this sandwich?
Yes, substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, tofu, or a plant-based meat alternative.
3. Can I make this dairy-free?
Use a dairy-free cheese alternative or skip the cheese altogether.
4. What kind of bread works best?
Soft hoagie rolls are ideal, but you can use ciabatta, baguette, or gluten-free buns.
5. How do I make it spicier?
Add more cayenne, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños to the chicken while cooking.
6. Can I prepare the chicken in advance?
Yes, cook and refrigerate up to 2 days ahead, then reheat before serving.
7. What cheese is closest to traditional Philly cheesesteak?
Provolone or American cheese are most common; Cheez Whiz is also traditional.
8. Can I grill the chicken instead?
Yes, grilled chicken adds a smoky flavor and works well in this sandwich.
9. Should I toast the buns?
Toasting is optional but recommended for extra crunch and flavor.
10. Are the sauces necessary?
No, but soy and Worcestershire sauce add depth. Use them based on your preference.
Conclusion
Chicken Cheese Steak Sandwiches are a flavorful, easy-to-make meal that brings comfort and satisfaction to your table. With tender chicken, melty cheese, and savory vegetables packed into a warm roll, this sandwich is perfect for any occasion. Plus, it’s endlessly adaptable to fit your dietary needs or flavor preferences. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just craving a hearty bite, this recipe delivers every time. Give it a try—you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
PrintChicken Cheese Steak Sandwiches
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 sandwiches
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Juicy, seasoned chicken paired with sautéed onions and bell peppers, all melted together under a blanket of provolone cheese in a toasted hoagie roll. A lighter twist on the classic Philly cheesesteak that’s both satisfying and full of flavor.
Ingredients
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1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, thinly sliced
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2 tbsp oil (or mayonnaise)
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1 tsp garlic powder
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½ tsp dried oregano
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½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
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½ tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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1 tbsp oil (for cooking)
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1 onion, thinly sliced
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1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
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½ tbsp soy sauce (optional; use tamari for gluten-free)
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½ tbsp Worcestershire sauce (optional; ensure gluten-free version for GF diet)
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4 slices provolone cheese
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4 hoagie rolls or gluten-free rolls, halved and optionally toasted
Instructions
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In a bowl, combine the sliced chicken with oil (or mayonnaise), garlic powder, oregano, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for at least 20 minutes.
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Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
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Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and bell pepper. Sauté until softened and slightly caramelized, about 5 minutes.
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Return the chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Add soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce, stirring to combine.
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Place the provolone slices over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Cover the skillet to melt the cheese, about 2 minutes.
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While the cheese melts, toast the hoagie rolls in a separate pan or under a broiler until golden brown.Northern Yum
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Assemble the sandwiches by spooning the chicken and vegetable mixture into the toasted rolls. Serve immediately.
Notes
For a spicier kick, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a few dashes of hot sauce.
If you prefer a richer flavor, substitute mayonnaise for the oil in the marinade.
For a gluten-free version, ensure all sauces are gluten-free and use gluten-free rolls.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American