Chicken Philly Cheesesteak recipe: A Tasty and Simple Recipe

Chicken Philly Cheesesteak recipe: A Tasty and Simple Recipe

Are you craving a delicious twist on a classic Philadelphia favorite? Look no further than the chicken Philly cheesesteak, a mouth-watering sandwich that substitutes tender chicken for traditional beef.

This tasty variation maintains all the beloved elements of a traditional cheesesteak, with sautéed peppers and onions, and melty cheese on a hoagie roll. What’s more, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the simple steps to create this amazing sandwich at home, including ingredient selection and serving suggestions.

Key Takeaways

• Learn how to make a delicious chicken Philly cheesesteak with tender chicken and sautéed peppers and onions.
• Discover the secret to a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Get tips on ingredient selection and preparation techniques.
• Find out how to serve your chicken Philly cheesesteak for maximum flavor.
• Explore variations and pro tips to make this recipe your own.

What is a Chicken Philly Cheesesteak?

A Chicken Philly Cheesesteak is essentially a Philly cheesesteak with a poultry twist, offering a fresh take on the beloved Philly cheesesteak sandwich. This variation maintains the core elements of the classic sandwich but substitutes thinly sliced or chopped chicken for the traditional beef.

The traditional Philadelphia cheesesteak is a iconic sandwich that originated in Philadelphia, consisting of thinly sliced ribeye steak, sautéed onions, and melted cheese (typically Cheez Whiz, provolone, or American) served on a hoagie roll. As

“The cheesesteak is a symbol of Philadelphia’s culinary identity.”

, the chicken variation stays true to this heritage while offering a lighter alternative.

The Classic Philly Cheesesteak vs. Chicken Variation

The classic Philly cheesesteak and its chicken variation share many similarities, but they also have some key differences. The traditional version uses thinly sliced ribeye steak, while the chicken version uses chicken thighs or breast, cooked and seasoned to perfection. Both versions are served on a toasted hoagie roll with sautéed onions and bell peppers, and topped with melted provolone cheese.

The main difference between the two is the protein used. The chicken version is generally considered a healthier and more affordable alternative to the traditional beef version. Additionally, the chicken variation offers a slightly different flavor profile and texture, making it a great option for those looking for a change of pace.

Why Chicken Makes a Delicious Alternative

Chicken works well in a Philly cheesesteak because it absorbs flavors beautifully and has a tender texture when cooked properly. When paired with the traditional cheesesteak toppings, such as sautéed onions and melted cheese on a sandwich roll, chicken creates a delicious and satisfying meal.

Furthermore, using chicken in a Philly cheesesteak makes the dish more accessible to those who don’t eat red meat but still want to enjoy the classic cheesesteak experience. This variation is also a great option for those looking for a potentially healthier and more affordable protein source without compromising on flavor or satisfaction, making it a great addition to any recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe

This Chicken Philly Cheesesteak recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a meal that’s quick, delicious, and healthier than the traditional version. You’ll love it for its simplicity, flavor, and nutritional benefits. The recipe is designed to be easy to follow and requires minimal preparation time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Quick and Easy to Prepare

One of the standout features of this recipe is its quick preparation time. It takes only about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal option for those who need a satisfying meal quickly. Most of the ingredients are pantry and refrigerator staples that many home cooks already have on hand. The straightforward cooking techniques require no special skills or equipment, making this recipe accessible to cooks of all experience levels.

Healthier Than Traditional Cheesesteaks

Using chicken instead of beef makes this recipe significantly healthier. Chicken has lower fat content and fewer calories while still providing plenty of protein. The addition of bell peppers and onions increases the vegetable content of the meal, adding nutrients, fiber, and flavor. This makes the Chicken Philly Cheesesteak a great option for those looking for a healthier alternative without sacrificing taste.

Perfect for Family Dinners or Parties

This recipe is not only great for a quick weeknight dinner but also perfect for feeding a crowd. You can easily scale up the ingredients to make multiple sandwiches, which can be cut into smaller portions for parties or gatherings. The components can be prepared ahead of time and assembled just before serving, making it a convenient option for entertaining.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A great Chicken Philly Cheesesteak starts with the freshest and most flavorful ingredients. To create this delicious sandwich, you’ll need to gather a variety of components that work together to produce a mouth-watering experience.

For the Chicken and Seasoning

For the chicken component, you have the option to use either boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. While both work well, chicken thighs tend to offer more moisture and flavor, whereas breasts are leaner. To season the chicken, you’ll need salt, pepper (freshly ground is best), and garlic powder. Optional additions include poultry seasoning or smoked paprika to give your chicken an extra boost of flavor.

Proper preparation of the chicken is crucial. Slicing the chicken into thin strips ensures even cooking and allows the meat to absorb the flavors of the seasonings more effectively.

For the Vegetables

The vegetables add a crucial layer of flavor and texture to your Chicken Philly Cheesesteak. You’ll need peppers, specifically green bell peppers, though red or a combination of both can be used for a sweeter flavor. Onions, preferably yellow or white, are also essential. If you like, you can include mushrooms for an added depth of umami flavor. It’s vital to use fresh vegetables and to cut them properly to ensure they cook evenly and contribute to the ideal texture in the finished sandwich.

Cheese and Bread Options

Provolone cheese is the traditional choice for a Philly Cheesesteak, but you can experiment with other types like American cheese or Cheez Whiz if you prefer a different flavor profile. The bread, specifically hoagie rolls, is also crucial. A good hoagie roll should have a soft interior and a slightly crusty exterior, providing a sturdy base for your sandwich without overpowering the other ingredients.

Optional Add-ins and Substitutions

To customize your Chicken Philly Cheesesteak, consider adding olive oil for sautéing, or optional ingredients like hot peppers for an extra kick. For those with dietary restrictions, gluten-free bread alternatives or dairy-free cheese options can be viable substitutions, allowing everyone to enjoy this delicious sandwich.

Kitchen Equipment Required

Having the right kitchen tools is crucial for making a mouth-watering Chicken Philly Cheesesteak. To start, you’ll need some essential equipment to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

Essential Tools

The most critical piece of equipment for this recipe is a large skillet or frying pan, preferably 10-12 inches in diameter. This size provides enough surface area to properly cook the chicken and vegetables. You’ll also need a sharp knife for thinly slicing the chicken and vegetables; a good chef’s knife or santoku knife works best. Additionally, a sturdy cutting board is necessary for safe and effective food preparation. Measuring spoons and cups are also essential for accurate seasoning and ingredient portioning.

• A large skillet or frying pan (10-12 inches)
• A sharp knife (chef’s knife or santoku knife)
• A sturdy cutting board
• Measuring spoons and cups

Optional but Helpful Equipment

While not essential, a meat thermometer can be helpful to ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F. You may also find a second skillet useful for toasting the hoagie rolls while the filling is cooking. Other helpful tools include a spatula or tongs for flipping and stirring ingredients during cooking, and aluminum foil for wrapping the assembled sandwiches to keep them warm or for easier eating. If you prefer to melt the cheese under the broiler, a broiler pan or sheet pan can be useful.

Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe: Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that we have covered the ingredients and equipment needed, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions for making a delicious Chicken Philly Cheesesteak. This recipe is designed to be straightforward and easy to follow, ensuring that you can create a mouth-watering dish with minimal hassle.

Preparing the Ingredients

Before you start cooking, it’s essential to prepare all the ingredients. Begin by slicing the chicken into thin strips. To make this process easier, consider partially freezing the chicken for 15-20 minutes. This will firm up the chicken, making it simpler to slice thinly and evenly. Next, cut the peppers and onions into strips, ensuring they are ready for sautéing. Have all your seasonings measured and ready to go.

Tip: Having all your ingredients prepared and within reach will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Seasoning and Cooking the Chicken

Season the chicken strips with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, tossing until they are evenly coated. This step is crucial for ensuring that the chicken has consistent flavor throughout. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken in a single layer to ensure proper browning. Cook the chicken for 7-8 minutes until it is browned and cooked through.

Remove the chicken from the skillet and keep it warm. The skillet will be used next to sauté the vegetables, taking advantage of the flavorful fond left by the chicken.

Sautéing the Vegetables

Melt butter in the same skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bell pepper, onion, and mushrooms, and cook for 5-6 minutes until they start to soften. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors. Then, add garlic and cook for about 2 more minutes, until you can smell the garlic and the vegetables are cooked to your liking.

Assembling the Sandwich

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables and mix until well combined. Top the skillet mixture with slices provolone cheese and cover for 1-2 minutes until the cheese has melted. Meanwhile, toast the hoagie rolls to prepare them for the filling.

To assemble the sandwiches, scoop the chicken and vegetable mixture into the toasted hoagie rolls. The order of components is crucial for the best eating experience: the chicken and vegetables should be hot, and the cheese should be melted to perfection.

Melting the Cheese Perfectly

The key to melting the cheese perfectly is to cover the skillet after adding the cheese slices. This traps the heat and allows the cheese to melt evenly over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Ensure that the cheese is melted to your desired level of gooeyness.

By following these step-by-step instructions, you’ll be able to create a delicious Chicken Philly Cheesesteak that’s sure to impress. Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Philly Cheesesteak

Elevate your sandwich-making skills with these insider tips on creating the best Chicken Philly Cheesesteak. Crafting a truly exceptional sandwich requires attention to detail and a few expert tricks.

Choosing and Slicing the Chicken

To start, you’ll need to prepare your chicken breasts. Partially freezing them for 15-30 minutes makes them firmer and easier to slice thinly and evenly. This step is crucial for proper cooking and texture. Slice the chicken against the grain for maximum tenderness, and aim for uniform thickness (about 1/4 inch) to ensure even cooking.

• Slicing against the grain enhances tenderness.
• Uniform thickness ensures even cooking.

Getting the Perfect Bread

The foundation of a great Chicken Philly Cheesesteak is the hoagie roll. Look for rolls with a slightly crusty exterior and a soft interior. Freshly baked bread can elevate your sandwich, but grocery store hoagies will still yield delicious results. Consider warming or lightly toasting the rolls before assembly to enhance flavor and structural integrity.

Cheese Selection and Melting Techniques

Provolone is the traditional cheese choice for Philly Cheesesteaks, offering a mild flavor and excellent melting properties. However, you can also experiment with alternatives like American cheese or Cheez Whiz. To melt the cheese evenly, you can either cover the skillet or use a broiler. Both methods yield great results, so choose the one that works best for you.

Balancing Flavors and Textures

The key to a great Chicken Philly Cheesesteak is balancing the ratio of chicken to vegetables to cheese. Don’t be afraid to adjust seasonings during cooking to enhance flavor. Consider adding Worcestershire sauce or Italian seasoning for an extra boost. Finally, allow the assembled sandwich to rest for 1-2 minutes before cutting or serving. This lets the flavors meld together and prevents the filling from immediately falling out.

By following these pro tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating an exceptional Chicken Philly Cheesesteak that will impress family and friends alike.

What to Serve With Your Chicken Philly Cheesesteak

Elevate your chicken Philly cheesesteak with these delicious and easy-to-make side dishes. The right accompaniments can make your meal more enjoyable and satisfying.

Classic Side Dishes

Traditional side dishes are a staple for a reason. For your chicken Philly cheesesteak, consider serving it with French fries, a classic combination that’s hard to beat. You can opt for homemade French fries for a personal touch or choose high-quality frozen varieties for convenience. Other classic options include onion rings, potato chips, or tater tots, which complement the sandwich’s flavors and maintain the authentic deli experience.

Coleslaw is another great option, serving as both a side and a potential topping for your sandwich. Its creamy, tangy flavor and crunchy texture balance the warm, soft sandwich perfectly. As noted by food enthusiasts, “A good coleslaw can make or break a sandwich,” highlighting its importance in the overall dining experience.

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking to create a more nutritionally balanced meal, consider healthier side options. Roasted vegetables, sweet potato fries, or a quinoa salad are excellent choices that not only add nutrients but also complement the flavors of your chicken Philly cheesesteak. Fresh vegetable sticks with hummus or tzatziki make for a light and refreshing side that adds to the meal without the heaviness.

For a sweet contrast to the savory sandwich, a simple fruit salad can be a great option. Additionally, beverage pairings such as iced tea, craft beer for adults, or classic soft drinks can complement the meal. The key is to balance flavors and textures, ensuring a well-rounded dining experience.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

When it comes to storing leftover chicken Philly cheesesteaks, a few simple steps can make all the difference in maintaining their flavor and texture. The goal is to preserve the quality of the sandwich components as much as possible.

Proper Storage Methods

For the best results, it’s recommended to store the chicken and vegetable mixture separately from the bread in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This prevents the bread from becoming soggy due to the moisture from the filling. The chicken mixture can be stored for up to 4-5 days when properly cooled before refrigeration. It’s essential to allow the meat to cool completely before storing it to prevent condensation, which can lead to sogginess.

Storing fully assembled sandwiches is not recommended as the bread will quickly become soggy. Instead, store the chicken and vegetable mixture in one container and assemble the sandwiches just before serving. You can store the meat and cheese mixture in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days and assemble the sandwich with fresh bread when you’re ready.

Best Reheating Techniques

When reheating, you have a couple of options. You can reheat the chicken and vegetable mixture on the stovetop in a skillet, which is preferred for maintaining texture, or use the microwave for a quicker method, though the texture might be slightly different. To refresh the hoagie rolls, lightly toasting them before assembling the leftover sandwiches can make a big difference.

To re-melt the cheese on the reheated filling, you can place the assembled sandwich under a broiler for a few seconds or use a panini press. While it’s not recommended to freeze fully assembled sandwiches, you can freeze the chicken and vegetable mixture for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it using your preferred method.

Nutritional Information

Understanding the nutritional content of your chicken Philly cheesesteak is crucial for making informed dietary choices. This sandwich offers a balance of macronutrients that can fit into a healthy diet when consumed in moderation.

Calories and Macronutrients

A standard chicken Philly cheesesteak contains approximately 571 calories, with 44g of protein, 36g of fat, and 17g of carbohydrates. Using chicken breasts instead of steak reduces the fat content and calories compared to traditional beef versions.

Making Your Sandwich Healthier

To make your chicken Philly cheesesteak even healthier, consider using whole grain rolls to increase fiber intake. Adding more vegetables like peppers and onions can also boost nutritional value. Choosing lower-fat cheese options is another way to reduce calories without sacrificing flavor.

Variations to Try

You can elevate your Chicken Philly Cheesesteak game by introducing new elements such as different cheeses, extra vegetables, or a spicy kick. The beauty of this dish lies in its customizability.

Different Cheese Options

While provolone is a classic choice, you can also experiment with other cheeses. White American cheese or Cheez Whiz can provide an authentic Philadelphia taste. For a spicy twist, consider pepper jack, or use mozzarella for its excellent melting properties.

• White American cheese for a creamy texture
• Cheez Whiz for an authentic Philly flavor
• Pepper jack for a spicy kick
• Mozzarella for a smooth, melted texture

Adding Extra Vegetables

Enhance your sandwich with additional vegetables. Sautéed mushrooms can add a savory flavor, while roasted peppers bring a sweet note. You can also add spinach for extra nutrients.

Spicy Chicken Philly Cheesesteak

For those who like a bit of heat, you can create a spicy version by adding ingredients like jalapeños, pepper jack cheese, hot sauce, or crushed red pepper flakes. Balance is key to avoid overwhelming the other flavors.

“The secret to a great Chicken Philly Cheesesteak is balance – you want to enhance the flavors, not overpower them.”

By incorporating these variations, you can enjoy a new chicken philly experience every time.

Conclusion

By now, you’re equipped with all the knowledge needed to create an exceptional Chicken Philly Cheesesteak that’s sure to impress. This delicious twist on the classic sandwich offers a flavorful and approachable meal for home cooks. The recipe stands out for its simplicity and speed, being ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick dinner or casual entertaining.

The chicken philly cheesesteak recipe is not only a healthier alternative to traditional beef cheesesteaks but also highly versatile. You can customize it to suit your preferences through various cheese options, additional vegetables, or adjusting the spice level. This flexibility, combined with its ease of preparation, makes it an ideal recipe for any occasion.

We encourage you to try making this chicken cheesesteak at home instead of ordering out. The satisfaction of creating a restaurant-quality sandwich in your own kitchen is unmatched. Mastering this recipe can also lead to exploring other sandwich variations and cooking techniques. Share your experiences or ask questions in the comments below, and enjoy your delicious Chicken Philly Cheesesteak!

For more cooking tips, stay connected with us. We also recommend the cookbook Skinnytaste Simple: Easy, Healthy Recipes with 7 Ingredients or Fewer

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