Easy Homemade Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe

Growing up in Philadelphia, I always loved the classic cheesesteak. I recently found a healthier chicken philly cheesesteak recipe. It keeps the original flavors but is lighter.

I started experimenting in my kitchen to make a healthier version. I wanted a sandwich that was satisfying but not heavy or greasy. The result is a delicious chicken philly cheesesteak that’s easy to make.

In this guide, I’ll share how to make the perfect chicken philly cheesesteak recipe at home. It’s great for busy cooks or sandwich lovers. This recipe will quickly become a favorite.

Key Takeaways

• Discover a lighter alternative to traditional Philly cheesesteak
• Learn simple cooking techniques for tender chicken
• Create restaurant-quality sandwiches in your own kitchen
• Customize with your favorite cheese and vegetables
• Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or weekend lunches

What is a Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe?

The authentic chicken philly cheesesteak is a tasty twist on the classic Philly sandwich. It’s a lighter, yet just as delicious, alternative to the traditional beef version. This homemade chicken philly sandwich brings new excitement to a beloved classic.

Let’s explore the world of this culinary creation. The original Philly cheesesteak came to life in Philadelphia in the 1930s, made with thinly sliced beef. Over time, restaurants and home cooks started making chicken versions. They wanted to offer healthier options without losing flavor.

Origins of the Dish

Philadelphia’s food scene gave birth to this iconic sandwich. It began as a street food sensation. Chefs saw the chance to make the classic recipe better by using chicken as a protein.

The authentic chicken philly cheesesteak grew from culinary creativity. It was a way to make meals more versatile.

Key Ingredients

• Thinly sliced chicken breast
• Sautéed bell peppers
• Caramelized onions
• Melted cheese
• Soft hoagie roll

Why Choose Chicken?

Choosing chicken for your homemade philly sandwich is a smart move. It’s leaner, cuts calories, and lets you play with flavors. Health-conscious people love it for its nutritional benefits and satisfying taste.

The authentic chicken philly cheesesteak is simple yet versatile. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or a casual get-together. This sandwich will surely impress your taste buds with its modern take on a classic.

Essential Ingredients for the Recipe

To make a tasty chicken philly recipe, you need the right ingredients. These ingredients should work together to bring out the best flavors. Let’s explore the key components that make a quick chicken philly dinner special.

Selecting the Ideal Chicken Breast

The base of a great Chicken Philly is high-quality chicken breast. Here’s what to look for:

• Boneless and skinless cuts
• Fresh, preferably organic chicken
• Thinly sliced or pounded for even cooking
• Approximately 1/4 inch thick for quick preparation

Perfect Pepper and Onion Combination

Vegetables add a lot to your chicken philly recipe. A mix of bell peppers and onions is perfect. They enhance the chicken’s flavor.

• Red and green bell peppers for vibrant color
• Sweet yellow onions for caramelized flavor
• Sliced thin for quick sautéing

Cheese Selection Matters

The cheese you choose can make your chicken philly dinner unforgettable. Here are some popular choices:

• Provolone: Creamy and mild
• American cheese: Classic and melty
• Pepper jack: For a spicy kick
• Cheez Whiz: Traditional Philadelphia style

By picking each ingredient carefully, you’ll make a delicious Chicken Philly Recipe Cheesesteak. It will be as good as any restaurant version.

Preparing the Chicken

To make the best chicken philly cheesesteak, start with top-notch chicken. The right prep turns a simple sandwich into a hit with your loved ones.

Marinating for Maximum Flavor

Marinating chicken breasts adds a lot of flavor. A basic marinade can take your sandwich from good to great. Here’s how I do it:

• Use olive oil as a base
• Add minced garlic for depth
• Sprinkle Italian seasoning
• Include a pinch of salt and black pepper

Cooking Techniques

Choosing the right cooking method is key. I use two main ways:

1. Skillet sautéing: Quick and even cooking
2. Thin slicing before cooking: Ensures tender meat

Ensuring Tenderness

For a perfect chicken philly, keep it moist. Cook chicken over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side. This prevents it from getting tough and dry.

Pro tip: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps keep its juices in, making the sandwich better in taste and texture.

Choosing the Right Cheese

Choosing the perfect cheese is key to a great chicken philly cheesesteak. The right cheese turns a simple sandwich into a delicious treat that excites your taste buds.

When making a flavorful chicken philly dish, cheese is very important. It affects the taste and texture. Knowing the differences in cheeses helps make the best cheesesteak.

Popular Cheese Types

Here are my top picks for a real chicken philly cheesesteak:

• Provolone: Offers a mild, slightly sharp flavor
• American Cheese: Provides creamy, melty goodness
• Cheez Whiz: Delivers a bold, tangy punch

Melting vs. Non-Melting Cheeses

The secret to a great cheesesteak is how well the cheese melts. Provolone and American cheese melt perfectly, making the sandwich gooey and delicious.

Flavor Profiles

Each cheese adds its own special taste to the chicken philly:

• Provolone: Mild and slightly sharp
• American Cheese: Creamy and salty
• Cheez Whiz: Bold and tangy

Try mixing different cheeses to find your favorite taste. The right cheese can make your chicken philly truly unforgettable.

The Perfect Vegetables

Vegetables are key to a great chicken philly recipe. They add color, texture, and flavor. The right veggies can make your sandwich go from good to amazing.

Selecting Fresh Bell Peppers

When choosing bell peppers, look for these traits:

• Vibrant, glossy skin without blemishes
• Firm texture with no soft spots
• Bright colors – red, green, or yellow

Sautéing Tips

Learning to sauté is important for a tasty chicken philly. Heat a skillet over medium-high with olive oil. Cut your peppers and onions evenly for even cooking.

Adding Flavor with Seasonings

Seasonings can make your chicken philly recipe stand out. My favorite mix includes:

1. Kosher salt
2. Fresh cracked black pepper
3. Garlic powder
4. Dried oregano

Add these seasonings in the last minute of sautéing. They boost the flavor and aroma, making your dish irresistible.

Building Your Cheesesteak

Making the best chicken philly cheesesteak is an art. It starts with careful assembly. My homemade chicken philly sandwich needs attention to detail and a passion for creating a memorable meal.

Selecting the Perfect Bread

The foundation of a great cheesesteak is the right bread. I suggest using a fresh hoagie roll. It should be soft yet sturdy to hold your fillings.

Look for rolls that are slightly crusty on the outside but soft inside.

• Choose fresh hoagie rolls
• Ensure bread is soft but can hold fillings
• Avoid overly soft or too crusty bread

Layering with Precision

Creating the best chicken philly cheesesteak is about strategic layering. I start with a thin layer of sautéed vegetables as the base. Then, I add the perfectly cooked chicken, making sure it’s evenly distributed across the roll.

1. Spread sautéed vegetables first
2. Add cooked chicken evenly
3. Top with your favorite cheese

The Toasting Touch

The final step is toasting. I place the sandwich under the broiler for 1-2 minutes. This makes the exterior crispy and the cheese melt perfectly, giving it that restaurant-quality finish.

Pro tip: Watch the sandwich carefully while broiling to prevent burning. Aim for a golden-brown crisp and melted, bubbly cheese that brings all the flavors together.

Cooking Methods for Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe

There are many ways to make an easy chicken philly recipe. Each method adds its own flavor and texture to your meal. You can pick the one that fits your cooking style and what you have at home.

Stovetop Method: Quick and Convenient

The stovetop is the top choice for making a chicken philly cheesesteak. Use a big skillet with high sides for the best results. Here’s how to do it:

• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat
• Slice chicken breast into thin strips
• Sauté chicken until golden brown
• Add sliced bell peppers and onions
• Cook until vegetables are tender
• Sprinkle cheese and let it melt

Grill or Outdoor Cooking: Smoky Flavor Boost

Grilling your chicken gives it a smoky taste. Marinate the chicken strips first. Then, grill them for 3-4 minutes on each side. Slice the chicken and mix it with sautéed veggies for a tasty outdoor meal.

Slow Cooker Option: Hands-Off Approach

The slow cooker is great for those who are always busy. Put seasoned chicken, peppers, and onions in it. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. This way, you get tender meat with little effort.

Making a Healthier Version

Turning a classic chicken philly sandwich into a healthy meal is easy. You can keep the taste great by making smart changes. These changes make your dish both tasty and good for you.

Substituting Ingredients for Nutrition

Start making your chicken philly healthier by choosing better ingredients. Here are some good swaps:

• Use lean, skinless chicken breast instead of regular chicken
• Switch to whole grain rolls for your sandwich
• Go for low-fat cheese
• Add more veggies than meat

Reducing Calories Smartly

Lowering calories doesn’t mean losing flavor. Try these tips to make your sandwich lighter:

1. Grill or air-fry your chicken for a healthier option
2. Choose part-skim mozzarella or reduced-fat provolone cheese
3. Use cooking spray instead of oil
4. Watch how much you eat

Boosting Nutritional Value

Make your chicken philly even healthier by adding nutrient-rich foods. Add colorful bell peppers for vitamin C and antioxidants. Try spinach or kale for more minerals and fiber.

Serving Suggestions

Making an authentic chicken philly cheesesteak is more than just the sandwich. It’s about creating a full dining experience. The right side dishes, toppings, and presentation can make your meal unforgettable.

Perfect Side Dishes

Pair your chicken philly with these classic sides:

• Crispy golden french fries
• Tangy homemade coleslaw
• Creamy potato salad
• Crunchy pickle spears

Ideal Toppings for Customization

Enhance your chicken philly with these toppings:

• Spicy hot sauce
• Pickled jalapeños
• Sautéed mushrooms
• Pepperoncini peppers

Presentation Tips

The look of your chicken philly matters as much as its taste. Serve it on a rustic wooden board or wrapped in parchment paper. Cutting the sandwich diagonally highlights the layers of chicken, cheese, and veggies.

Adding a small side of pickled veggies or fresh herbs can elevate your homemade cheesesteak to restaurant quality.

Storing Leftovers

Wondering how to keep your tasty chicken philly sandwich fresh? Proper storage is crucial to keep the flavor and quality of your meal.

Refrigeration Guidelines

Here’s how to store your homemade chicken philly sandwich:

• Separate ingredients to prevent bread from getting soggy
• Use airtight containers for chicken and vegetable mixture
• Keep bread in a separate sealed container
• Refrigerate immediately after cooling
• Consume within 3 days for best taste and quality

Freezing Options

Freezing your easy chicken philly recipe is a smart move. Wrap the cooled chicken and vegetable mixture tightly in plastic wrap, then cover with aluminum foil. Your homemade chicken philly sandwich can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Tips

Want to make your sandwich taste like new? Here’s how to reheat it:

1. Thaw frozen leftovers in the refrigerator overnight
2. Reheat chicken mixture in a skillet over medium heat
3. Add a splash of water to prevent drying
4. Toast bread separately
5. Assemble sandwich just before eating

By following these tips, you can enjoy your chicken philly sandwich days after you made it.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Making the best chicken philly cheesesteak takes practice. It also means knowing how to fix common cooking problems. Even skilled cooks face issues that can affect the taste and texture of their dish.

Preventing Chicken Overcooking

Dry chicken can spoil a great dish. Here are some tips to keep your chicken juicy:

• Slice chicken thinly and uniformly
• Use high heat for quick cooking
• Cook chicken just until it reaches 165°F internal temperature
• Remove from heat immediately after cooking

Solving Cheese Melting Challenges

Getting the cheese just right is key to a perfect cheesesteak. Here’s how to do it:

• Cover the pan to trap heat and help cheese melt
• Use room temperature cheese for faster melting
• Briefly place the sandwich under the broiler
• Choose high-moisture cheeses like provolone or American

Ensuring Ingredient Harmony

When your ingredients don’t mix well, try these tips:

• Let hot ingredients rest together for 2-3 minutes
• Season each component separately
• Slice vegetables uniformly for even cooking
• Use a cast-iron skillet for better heat distribution

Mastering the chicken philly cheesesteak recipe takes time. Don’t worry about mistakes at first. Every try gets you closer to making it perfect.

Variations of the Recipe

The classic chicken philly sandwich is a canvas for creativity. By exploring new flavors, you can turn this favorite into a thrilling meal. I’ve found many ways to make the authentic chicken philly cheesesteak even better, with unique twists.

For those who love spicy food, adding jalapeños, hot sauce, or pepper jack cheese is a great idea. These ingredients bring a bold, exciting taste to the classic recipe. Vegetarians can enjoy a similar experience with seitan or tempeh, which replace chicken.

Looking to the world for inspiration? A Mexican twist might add fresh cilantro, zesty lime, and crumbled queso fresco. An Italian version could include creamy mozzarella and tangy sun-dried tomatoes. These ideas show how versatile this sandwich can be, while keeping its core appeal.

Home cooks can make the chicken philly cheesesteak their own by trying new ingredients. You can add unexpected spices, swap proteins, or bring in flavors from different places. The goal is to mix up the recipe while keeping its traditional charm.

Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe

Craving a Philly cheesesteak but want to cut calories? Try our Chicken Philly Cheesesteak recipe! It's easy to make and packed with flavor. Get the full recipe and cooking tips here:

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Course Main Course, Sandwich

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Calories 475 kcal

Equipment

• Large Skillet
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheet
• Oven with broiler function

Ingredients

  

For the Chicken Filling:

• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil  
• For the Vegetables:
• 1 medium onion thinly sliced
• 1 medium green bell pepper thinly sliced
• 1 medium red bell pepper thinly sliced 

For the Sandwich:

• 4 hoagie rolls sliced open
• 8 slices provolone or American cheese
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter softened

Instructions

 

Prepare the Chicken:

• In a bowl, combine the sliced chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.

Cook the Vegetables:

• Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Cook the Chicken:

• In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the seasoned chicken slices and cook over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned.

Combine Chicken and Vegetables:

• Return the cooked vegetables to the skillet with the chicken. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 2 minutes to meld the flavors.

Assemble the Sandwiches:

• Preheat the oven broiler.
• Spread the softened butter on the inside of each hoagie roll. Place the rolls on a baking sheet and toast under the broiler for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
• Divide the chicken and vegetable mixture evenly among the toasted hoagie rolls.
• Top each sandwich with 2 slices of cheese.
• Place the assembled sandwiches back under the broiler for 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve:

• Remove from the oven and serve the Chicken Philly Cheesesteaks hot.

Notes

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approximately 475 kcal
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 105mg
• Sodium: 1006mg
• Dietary Fiber: 3.5g
• Sugars: 6.4g
• Calcium: 272mg
• Iron: 5.8mg
• Potassium: 506.7mg

Keyword chicken Philly cheesesteak, Comfort food, game day, sandwich, weeknight meal