If you’re craving a hearty, flavorful dish that combines tender, juicy chicken with melty cheese and vibrant veggies, the Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet Recipe is here to satisfy every bite. This skillet meal captures the essence of a classic cheesesteak but swaps out the traditional beef for lean chicken, making it a deliciously lighter yet just as indulgent option. With its perfectly sautéed onions, sweet green peppers, and ooey-gooey provolone cheese melding together, it’s a one-pan wonder that’s quick to prepare and wins over everyone at the dinner table. Trust me, once you try this Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet Recipe, it’ll become a go-to in your weeknight rotation!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to nailing this dish. Each ingredient here plays a vital role: olive oil for that golden sauté, onions and bell peppers for sweetness and color, garlic to add aromatic depth, and of course, the chicken and provolone cheese to bring it all together into a comforting, indulgent skillet meal.
- Olive oil (4 tablespoons): Divided for sautéing veggies and cooking chicken, it keeps everything rich and lightly crisped.
- Onion (1 medium, thinly sliced): Adds a natural sweetness and soft texture that balances the savory elements.
- Green bell peppers (2, sliced): Provide crunch, freshness, and vibrant color that makes the dish visually appealing.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): A subtle punch of aroma and flavor that enhances the overall dish.
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts (1¼ lbs, thinly sliced): The star protein—quick to cook and perfectly tender when sliced thin.
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A blend of herbs to add a warm, herbaceous note.
- Provolone cheese (1½ cups, grated): Melts beautifully over the hot skillet, giving that classic cheesesteak gooeyness.
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential seasoning to bring all the flavors together and brighten the dish.
How to Make Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Start by heating half of your olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the thinly sliced onions and green bell peppers, letting them cook gently until they soften and release their natural sweetness—about 5 to 7 minutes. In the final minute, add the minced garlic to wake up the flavors but be careful not to let it burn. Once softened, remove the veggies from the skillet and set them aside for later.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Add the remaining olive oil to the same skillet and bring it back to medium-high heat. Now, introduce your thinly sliced chicken breasts. Season generously with Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Cook the chicken until it develops a beautiful golden crust and is thoroughly cooked through—usually about 7 to 9 minutes—stirring every so often to prevent sticking and to brown all sides evenly.
Step 3: Combine Chicken and Vegetables
Once the chicken is perfectly cooked, it’s time to reunite it with the sautéed onions and peppers. Stir everything together in the skillet so the flavors meld and the veggies warm up again. Let this mixture cook for an additional 2 minutes, ensuring every bite delivers that classic cheesesteak combination of juicy meat and tender veggies.
Step 4: Melt the Provolone Cheese
Sprinkle your grated provolone cheese evenly over the top of the chicken-vegetable mix. Cover the skillet with a lid to trap the heat, allowing the cheese to melt slowly over about 2 to 3 minutes. This step is crucial because the gooey cheese is what transforms this meal into a true comfort food favorite and locks in all those savory flavors.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Your Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet Recipe is now ready to be devoured! Serve it hot, straight from the pan, so you get that satisfying pull of stretchy melted cheese with every bite. It’s delicious as-is or can be paired with your favorite extras to elevate the experience.
How to Serve Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like freshly chopped parsley or basil can add a pop of color and a fresh, herbal contrast to the rich cheese. For an extra touch, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes adds delightful heat. Try squeezing a little fresh lemon juice on top to brighten the flavors as well.
Side Dishes
This Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet Recipe pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider garlic bread or crispy potato wedges to soak up all those cheesy juices. For something lighter, a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want a fun twist, spoon the chicken cheesesteak mixture into toasted hoagie rolls or bake it inside bell peppers for a colorful, low-carb option. You can also layer it over rice or pasta for a comforting casserole-style meal that transforms the skillet into a versatile staple.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet Recipe in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it a perfect option for quick meals later in the week without sacrificing flavor.
Freezing
This dish freezes well if you want to stock your freezer with ready-made meals. Transfer cooled portions into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Be sure to label your containers so you know exactly what deliciousness awaits!
Reheating
To reheat, thaw the dish overnight in the fridge if frozen. Warm it up gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until piping hot and the cheese is melted again. Alternatively, microwave it in a covered dish, checking and stirring every 1-2 minutes to avoid overheating.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese instead of provolone?
Absolutely! While provolone is traditional and melts beautifully, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even cheddar can be great substitutes depending on your preference. Each brings its own flavor twist to the Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet Recipe.
Is it necessary to slice the chicken thinly?
Thin slices cook quickly and stay tender, which is key for this recipe. Thicker pieces might take longer to cook and won’t absorb the seasoning as well, so slicing thin is definitely recommended for the best texture and flavor.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! The skillet itself is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure any sides or bread you serve alongside are gluten-free as well to keep the meal safe for those with sensitivities.
What if I don’t have Italian seasoning on hand?
No worries! You can easily make your own blend using dried oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. This DIY mix will give that same herby flavor that’s essential to the Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet Recipe.
How can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Feel free to toss in mushrooms, sliced zucchini, or even spinach to amp up the veggie content. Add them in when sautéing the onions and peppers so everything cooks evenly and stays flavorful.
Final Thoughts
If comfort food had a new champion, this Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet Recipe would be it! It’s easy to prepare, packed with delicious layers of flavor, and perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a beloved staple in your home kitchen.
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Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A quick and flavorful Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet recipe featuring sautéed onions, bell peppers, and garlic combined with tender seasoned chicken breasts, topped with melted provolone cheese. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 green bell peppers, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Chicken & Seasoning
- 1¼ lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Other
- 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1½ cups provolone cheese, grated
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and bell peppers, cooking them until they soften, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Add the minced garlic in the last minute of cooking and stir frequently. Once done, remove the vegetables from the skillet and set them aside.
- Cook Chicken: Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the same skillet. Place the thinly sliced chicken breasts into the skillet, seasoning them with Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Cook the chicken until it is browned and fully cooked through, about 7 to 9 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Combine Vegetables and Chicken: Return the sautéed onions, bell peppers, and garlic to the skillet with the cooked chicken. Stir the mixture well to combine and let it heat through for about 2 minutes over medium heat.
- Melting Cheese: Evenly sprinkle the grated provolone cheese over the chicken and vegetable mixture in the skillet. Cover the skillet with a lid and allow the cheese to melt, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and serve the Chicken Cheesesteak hot. It can be enjoyed on its own or paired with your favorite side dishes for a complete meal.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add sliced hot peppers or a dash of red pepper flakes when sautéing the vegetables.
- Feel free to substitute provolone with mozzarella or another melting cheese if desired.
- Serve with crusty bread or over rice for a heartier meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
