This Easy Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet is a quick and tasty dish packed with juicy chicken, colorful peppers, and melted cheese! You’ll love how it all comes together in one pan.
It’s perfect for busy nights when you want comfort food without the fuss. I whip this up in no time and serve it over rice or in a hoagie roll for that classic touch. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star here. You can swap them for turkey breast or even use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option. This makes prep super easy!
Bell Peppers: I like using a mix of red and green for color and sweetness, but feel free to use yellow or orange peppers. You can also use frozen mixed peppers if fresh ones aren’t handy.
Onions: A large onion adds flavor, but yellow or white onions are great too. If you’re short on time, frozen pre-sliced onions can save you the chopping!
Cheese: Provolone is traditional, but mozzarella works perfectly if that’s what you have. For a richer flavor, try using cheddar or pepper jack for a little spice.
Spices: The garlic and onion powders enhance flavor, but you could replace them with fresh garlic or onion if you like a bolder taste.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Stays Juicy?
To keep your chicken tender and juicy, make sure not to overcook it. Here’s how:
- Slice chicken into even strips. This helps them cook quickly and evenly.
- Cook until just browned and no pink remains, about 5-7 minutes over medium-high heat.
- Removing the chicken from the pan before adding veggies helps prevent overcooking.
- Combining everything at the end allows the chicken to retain moisture while blending flavors.
By following these tips, you’ll create a deliciously satisfying chicken cheesesteak skillet each time!
Easy Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced into strips
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese (or mozzarella)
- Optional: hoagie rolls for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking time, so you can have a delicious meal ready in about 25 minutes! Perfect for those busy weeknights.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Chicken:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced chicken strips. Sprinkle them with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, until it’s cooked through and lightly browned. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Sautéing the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Now, toss in the sliced onions and bell peppers. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes until they are softened and slightly caramelized. Their sweet aroma will fill your kitchen!
3. Combining and Melting the Cheese:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sautéed peppers and onions. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 1-2 minutes to meld the flavors. Now, sprinkle the shredded provolone cheese evenly on top. Cover the skillet with a lid or foil to let the cheese melt, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
4. Serving:
Once the cheese is melted and gooey, remove the skillet from heat. You can serve the cheesy chicken mixture straight from the skillet or spoon it into toasted hoagie rolls for a delicious sandwich! Enjoy your quick and flavorful Easy Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the chicken completely before slicing it into strips. The best way to thaw is to place it in the fridge overnight or seal it in a plastic bag and submerge in cold water for faster results. Pat the chicken dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the skillet.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the chicken with a meat alternative like tofu, tempeh, or even mushrooms. For added protein, chickpeas or black beans work wonderfully too. You can follow the same cooking steps for the veggies and add your meat substitute until heated through.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, mixing occasionally to heat evenly. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of broth or water while reheating.
What Can I Serve with This Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet?
This dish is versatile! You can serve it over cooked rice, quinoa, or pasta for a hearty meal. For a low-carb option, try it with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. If you’re feeling indulgent, pair it with a side of crispy fries or potato wedges!
