These Chicken Cheese Steak Sandwiches bring together tender chicken, sautéed bell peppers, and melted provolone cheese, all nestled in a soft hoagie roll. It’s the perfect blend of flavors and textures in every bite.
Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or need a satisfying lunch, this sandwich is a crowd-pleaser. With the option to add your favorite spreads like mayo or mustard, you can easily customize this dish to your taste. It’s ideal for a comforting meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 hoagie rolls
- 4 slices provolone cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: mayonnaise or mustard for spreading
Directions:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken breasts and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the onions, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- While the chicken and vegetables cook, slice the hoagie rolls and lightly toast them in the oven or on a skillet.
- Once the rolls are toasted, divide the chicken and vegetable mixture between the hoagie rolls.
- Place a slice of provolone cheese on top of each sandwich and melt under a broiler for 2-3 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve hot with optional mayonnaise or mustard.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 450 kcal | Servings: 4 sandwiches
Origin and History
The Chicken Cheese Steak Sandwich is a twist on the classic Philly cheesesteak, which originated in Philadelphia in the 1930s. Traditionally made with thinly sliced ribeye steak, it has been adapted over the years to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. The chicken version offers a leaner alternative while still maintaining the rich, savory flavors of the original sandwich. While the Philly cheesesteak remains an iconic part of American cuisine, this variation has become popular for those who prefer poultry over beef.
Cooking Tips
- Chicken Breast vs. Chicken Thighs: While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are typically used for a leaner option, chicken thighs can also be a great choice if you prefer a juicier and more flavorful result.
- Choosing the Right Cheese: Provolone cheese is a classic choice for this sandwich, as it melts beautifully and adds a mild, slightly tangy flavor. However, you can also experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or even American cheese for a more traditional taste.
- Vegetable Add-ins: Bell peppers and onions are the standard vegetables for this sandwich, but you can also add mushrooms or spinach for additional flavor and nutrition.
- Toasting the Rolls: Lightly toasting the hoagie rolls enhances the texture and prevents them from becoming soggy when filled with the chicken and melted cheese. If you prefer extra crunch, toast the rolls under the broiler for a minute or two.
Variations
- Spicy Version: For a spicy kick, you can add jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to the sandwich.
- Mayo or Mustard: Some prefer to spread a little mayonnaise or mustard on the rolls before adding the chicken mixture. It’s a great way to add extra flavor, especially if you’re serving the sandwich with a side of crispy fries.
- Make it Low-Carb: If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, try using a lettuce wrap or a keto-friendly roll instead of the traditional hoagie bread.
Serving Suggestions
This sandwich pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. You can serve it with classic potato chips, crispy fries, or even a side salad for a lighter meal. If you’re serving it for a party or gathering, consider making a batch of sandwiches and cutting them into smaller portions for easy sharing.
Ingredients Breakdown
This recipe uses a combination of fresh, simple ingredients that come together to create a delicious sandwich. Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients:
- Chicken Breasts: Chicken breasts are lean, versatile, and take on the flavors of the seasoning and vegetables well. They’re perfect for grilling or sautéing and provide a satisfying yet light protein base.
- Bell Peppers & Onions: These vegetables bring both sweetness and a touch of savory depth to the dish. Sautéing them helps to release their natural sugars and gives them a delicious caramelized flavor.
- Provolone Cheese: A mild, slightly tangy cheese that melts beautifully, making it the ideal choice for a sandwich like this. It adds the creaminess that makes the sandwich indulgent without overwhelming the other flavors.
- Hoagie Rolls: Soft yet sturdy rolls that hold the filling together. They are perfect for this sandwich as they don’t get soggy quickly, even with the melted cheese and juicy chicken.
Why It’s a Great Choice
Chicken Cheese Steak Sandwiches are a wonderful option for anyone craving a comforting yet easy-to-make meal. Unlike the traditional beef-based cheesesteak, this chicken version is lighter without sacrificing any flavor. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a casual weekend lunch. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser, so it’s perfect for feeding a family or serving at a gathering. With only a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a tasty, satisfying meal on the table in less than 30 minutes!
Customizing Your Chicken Cheese Steak Sandwich
- Add Extra Veggies: If you like a bit more crunch or color, try adding sliced mushrooms or even spinach to the sautéed vegetables. They not only boost the nutrition but also add another layer of flavor.
- Cheese Variety: While provolone cheese is the classic choice, feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Sharp cheddar, Swiss, or mozzarella can provide a unique twist to the sandwich, depending on your taste preferences.
- Make it Spicy: If you’re a fan of heat, throw in some pickled jalapeños, hot sauce, or chili flakes to give the sandwich an extra kick.
- Herbs and Seasonings: If you prefer more seasoning, sprinkle a little garlic powder, oregano, or Italian seasoning on the chicken before cooking. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can be added on top of the sandwich for extra flavor.
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (though we doubt it!), you can store the chicken and vegetable filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat the filling in a skillet and then assemble it in a fresh hoagie roll with a slice of cheese. The leftovers also make a great topping for salads or can be served with roasted vegetables for a lighter meal.
Perfect Pairings
Chicken Cheese Steak Sandwiches are hearty on their own but pair wonderfully with various sides. Here are some options:
- French Fries or Sweet Potato Fries: Classic choices that complement the savory flavors of the sandwich.
- Coleslaw: The crunchy, tangy flavors of coleslaw contrast nicely with the rich chicken and cheese filling.
- Side Salad: A light salad with a tangy vinaigrette will balance the richness of the sandwich and add freshness to your meal.
Conclusion
Chicken Cheese Steak Sandwiches are a quick, easy, and delicious meal that offers a lighter take on the classic cheesesteak. With juicy chicken, sautéed peppers, and melted provolone cheese, this sandwich is sure to please. It’s versatile, allowing you to add extra veggies or switch up the cheese to suit your taste. Whether for a busy weeknight or a casual weekend lunch, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. Plus, it’s easy to store leftovers for a satisfying meal the next day. Enjoy it with fries, coleslaw, or a side salad for a complete meal!