If you are craving a comforting, flavorful dish that comes together effortlessly in just 30 minutes, the Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet Recipe is your new go-to. This skillet meal brilliantly balances tender slices of chicken with sweet bell peppers, sautéed onions, and a luscious layer of melted provolone cheese. It’s a colorful, hearty dish that brings the classic Philly cheesesteak vibe to a simpler, home-friendly format, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch. Get ready to fall in love with every bite!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but essential, each adding depth and character to the dish. The combination of fresh vegetables, perfectly seasoned chicken, and melty cheese ensures remarkable taste, texture, and a vibrant plate that makes your kitchen smell irresistible.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons, divided): Use quality olive oil to get that rich, smooth sauté base for veggies and chicken.
- Yellow onion (1, halved and thinly sliced): Adds sweetness and a beautiful caramelized flavor when sautéed.
- Red bell pepper (1, thinly sliced): Offers a pop of color and natural sweetness perfection.
- Green bell pepper (1, thinly sliced): Brings freshness and a slight crunch to the skillet.
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts (1 1/4 pounds, thinly sliced): The star protein that cooks quickly and soaks up seasoning beautifully.
- Italian seasoning (1 1/2 teaspoons): A fragrant blend that lifts the flavor profile instantly.
- Smoked paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a subtle smoky depth without overpowering the dish.
- Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning all components perfectly.
- Shredded provolone cheese (1 cup): Melts into gooey, savory goodness—the perfect finishing touch.
How to Make Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Begin by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, toss in the sliced onions and bell peppers along with a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté these until they become tender and slightly caramelized, which usually takes about 6 to 8 minutes. This step brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables—an essential base for the entire dish. Then, transfer them to a plate and set aside for now.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken with Seasonings
Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet and spread the thinly sliced chicken breasts evenly. Sprinkle the Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and a bit more salt and pepper over the top. Allow the chicken to cook undisturbed for several minutes—this helps achieve that glorious golden brown sear everyone dreams of. Flip and stir the meat occasionally until it’s fully cooked and juicy, locking in all those vibrant flavors.
Step 3: Combine and Cheese It Up
Return the sautéed vegetables and any accumulated juices back into the skillet with the chicken. Fold everything together gently to marry the flavors. Then, scatter the shredded provolone cheese evenly over the top. Cover the pan with a lid and let the residual heat melt the cheese into a creamy, indulgent blanket that ties the dish all together. This quick step transforms your skillet into a melty masterpiece!
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Once the cheese is melted and gooey, your Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet Recipe is ready to be enjoyed. Grab a spatula, plate it up, and prepare to savor every satisfying bite of this simple yet incredibly delicious creation.
How to Serve Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or a sprinkle of chopped green onions add a fresh, vibrant finish and a pop of color that makes the dish feel festive. If you love a little heat, a few red pepper flakes scattered on top can bring delightful warmth without overwhelming the other flavors.
Side Dishes
This skillet stands perfectly on its own but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad for balance or some warm crusty bread to soak up those lovely cheesy juices. For a heartier approach, roasted potatoes or even steamed rice can become fantastic companions that complete a full meal experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet Recipe topped with a fried egg or stuffed inside a toasted hoagie roll for an at-home sandwich experience that captures the spirit of the original Philly cheesesteak. You can also spoon it over creamy polenta or mashed potatoes for an elegant comfort dinner that impresses family and friends alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. The skillet remains flavorful and delicious for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic option for next-day lunches or easy dinner reheats.
Freezing
You can freeze the Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet Recipe, although it’s best to do so without cheese to maintain texture. Place the cooled chicken and vegetables in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. Then add fresh cheese when reheating to keep that wonderful meltiness.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the skillet gently in a pan over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry. Once heated through, sprinkle fresh provolone or cheese of your choice on top and cover until melted. This method keeps all the juicy, savory goodness intact.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese in this Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet Recipe?
Absolutely! While provolone is traditional and melts beautifully, you can substitute with mozzarella, cheddar, or even a blend of cheeses depending on your preference. Each one will bring its own unique flavor.
Is there a vegetarian version of this skillet?
Yes, you can replace chicken with hearty mushrooms or tofu. Sauté them with the same seasonings and veggies for a delicious vegetarian take that doesn’t miss out on texture or flavor.
Can I use frozen bell peppers and onions?
While fresh vegetables are best for texture and taste, you can use frozen peppers and onions in a pinch. Just be mindful they might release more moisture, so cook them a bit longer to evaporate excess water before adding other ingredients.
How spicy is the Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet Recipe?
This recipe is mild by default, but the smoked paprika adds a gentle smoky warmth. You can easily adjust the heat with additional spices like cayenne or red pepper flakes to suit your taste buds.
What can I serve with leftovers?
Leftovers can be transformed into sandwiches, wraps, or even stuffed baked potatoes. Get creative in using this versatile skillet to make quick meals throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
There is something so satisfying about a one-pan meal that not only tastes amazing but also feels like a warm hug on a plate. The Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet Recipe hits every mark with its blend of tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and ooey-gooey cheese all in one skillet. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe is bound to become a cherished favorite you’ll come back to again and again. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
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Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet Recipe
This Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet is a quick and flavorful one-pan meal featuring tender, seasoned chicken breasts sautéed with sweet bell peppers and onions, all melted under a blanket of provolone cheese. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner packed with hearty and cheesy comfort flavors.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 yellow onion, halved and thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
Meat
- 1 1/4 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
Seasonings & Oils
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Fresh ground black pepper, to taste
Cheese
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
Instructions
- Sauté the Vegetables: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the sliced onions, red and green bell peppers along with salt and pepper to taste. Sauté the veggies until they become very tender, about 5-7 minutes, then remove them from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet. Place the thinly sliced chicken breasts in a single layer and sprinkle with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let the chicken cook undisturbed for a few minutes so it browns nicely, then continue sautéing until fully cooked through, approximately 6-8 minutes in total.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the sautéed onions and bell peppers along with any accumulated juices back into the skillet with the chicken. Stir everything together to combine evenly.
- Melt the Cheese: Evenly sprinkle the shredded provolone cheese over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and allow the cheese to melt completely, about 2-3 minutes.
- Serve: Once the cheese has melted, remove from heat and serve the chicken cheesesteak skillet hot for a comforting and delicious meal.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add some red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the chicken while cooking.
- You can substitute the provolone cheese with mozzarella or cheddar if preferred.
- Serve with crusty bread or over rice for a hearty meal.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in a skillet or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American