Introduction
If you’re a fan of the classic Philly cheesesteak but want a lighter, equally delicious alternative, then the Chicken Philly Cheesesteak is your go-to recipe. With tender, seasoned chicken, sautéed onions and peppers, and gooey melted cheese packed inside a toasted hoagie roll, this sandwich is a quick and easy meal that’s bursting with flavor.
The original Philly cheesesteak is an iconic sandwich that originated in Philadelphia, traditionally made with thinly sliced beef. Over time, variations have emerged, and using chicken instead of beef has become a popular option for those seeking a leaner alternative without sacrificing the sandwich’s signature taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make – Requires minimal prep and cooks in under 30 minutes.
- Healthier Alternative – Less fat than the traditional beef version.
- Customizable – You can switch up the seasonings, cheese, or add extra toppings.
- Perfect for Meal Prep – Make ahead and enjoy later.
Looking for more chicken-based dishes? Check out these top chicken recipes for weight loss and healthy eating.
What is a Chicken Philly Cheesesteak?
The Origin of the Philly Cheesesteak
The Philly Cheesesteak was invented in the 1930s by Pat Olivieri, a hot dog vendor in South Philadelphia. He decided to cook up some thinly sliced beef on his grill and stuff it into an Italian roll. A taxi driver passing by asked for one, and soon the sandwich became so popular that Olivieri opened Pat’s King of Steaks, a restaurant still in operation today.
Over time, variations emerged, and using chicken instead of beef became an appealing option for those looking for a leaner alternative. This version maintains the melty cheese, sautéed onions, and soft hoagie roll, making it just as satisfying.
Why Choose Chicken Over Beef?
- Healthier Option – Chicken is lower in fat and calories.
- Lighter but Flavorful – Still packed with rich, cheesy goodness.
- Easier to Cook – No need for a meat slicer or specialty cuts.
- More Versatile – Chicken absorbs flavors well, making it easy to season and customize.
Ingredients for the Best Chicken Philly Cheesesteak
Choosing the Right Chicken
- Chicken Breasts – Lean and easy to slice.
- Chicken Thighs – Juicier with more flavor.
Essential Seasonings
- Salt & black pepper
- Garlic powder
- Italian seasoning
- Smoked paprika (optional for extra depth)
Best Cheese Options
- Provolone – Classic and melts well.
- Cheez Whiz – Traditional in Philadelphia.
- White American Cheese – Smooth and creamy.
Best Bread Choices
- Amoroso Rolls (traditional Philly bread)
- Hoagie Rolls
- French Baguette (for a crispy twist)
Want another easy chicken dish? Try this simple chicken pasta recipe without cream.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make a Chicken Philly Cheesesteak
Follow this detailed step-by-step guide to make a delicious, homemade Chicken Philly Cheesesteak with tender chicken, sautéed onions and peppers, and melted cheese, all packed inside a toasted hoagie roll.
Step 1: Gather & Prepare the Ingredients
Before you start cooking, make sure you have all your ingredients ready.
Ingredients Needed:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (thinly sliced)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
- 1 small onion (thinly sliced)
- 1 green bell pepper (thinly sliced)
- 1 red bell pepper (thinly sliced)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional for extra depth)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 4 slices provolone cheese (or Cheez Whiz/American cheese)
- 2 hoagie rolls or Amoroso rolls
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter (for toasting the rolls)
🔹 Pro Tip: Use chicken thighs if you want a juicier texture, but chicken breasts work great for a leaner option.
Step 2: Slice the Chicken and Vegetables
- Cut the chicken into thin strips or bite-sized pieces. This helps it cook quickly and evenly.
- Slice the onion and bell peppers into thin strips for the perfect texture when sautéed.
🔹 Pro Tip: A sharp knife makes slicing the chicken easier. If it’s too soft, freeze it for 20 minutes before cutting!
Step 3: Sauté the Chicken
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken strips and season with garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked.
- Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm.
🔹 Pro Tip: Avoid overcooking the chicken—it should be tender and juicy, not dry.
Step 4: Cook the Onions and Peppers
- In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed.
- Add the sliced onions and bell peppers to the pan.
- Sauté for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and slightly caramelized.
- Sprinkle a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
🔹 Pro Tip: Want extra flavor? Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce while cooking the veggies!
Step 5: Combine Chicken with Vegetables
- Reduce the heat to medium-low.
- Return the cooked chicken to the pan with the sautéed vegetables.
- Stir everything together for 1-2 minutes to blend the flavors.
🔹 Pro Tip: If the chicken looks dry, add a splash of chicken broth to keep it juicy!
Step 6: Melt the Cheese
- Divide the chicken and vegetable mixture into two portions in the skillet.
- Place two slices of provolone cheese over each portion.
- Cover the pan with a lid and let the cheese melt for 1-2 minutes.
🔹 Pro Tip: If using Cheez Whiz, warm it separately and drizzle it over the sandwiches before serving.
Step 7: Toast the Hoagie Rolls
- Slice the hoagie rolls in half.
- Spread butter on the inside and place them face-down in a separate pan over medium heat.
- Toast for 1-2 minutes until golden brown and slightly crispy.
🔹 Pro Tip: Warming the bread prevents it from getting soggy when adding the hot filling.
Step 8: Assemble the Chicken Philly Cheesesteak
- Use a spatula to scoop the cheesy chicken and veggie mixture into each toasted hoagie roll.
- Press gently to pack the filling and keep everything inside.
- Serve immediately while hot and enjoy every bite!
🔹 Pro Tip: Add extra toppings like pickled jalapeños, hot sauce, or mushrooms for more flavor!
Variations of Chicken Philly Cheesesteak
Spicy Chicken Philly Cheesesteak
- Add jalapeños or drizzle with hot sauce.
Low-Carb/Keto Version
- Use lettuce wraps instead of bread.
BBQ Chicken Philly Cheesesteak
- Toss chicken in BBQ sauce before assembling.
Best Side Dishes to Serve
A Chicken Philly Cheesesteak is a satisfying meal on its own, but pairing it with the right side dishes makes it even better. Here are some of the best options to serve alongside your sandwich.
1. French Fries
Crispy, golden fries are a classic cheesesteak companion. You can choose from different variations:
- Regular Fries – Simply salted and crispy.
- Garlic Parmesan Fries – Tossed in melted butter, garlic, and Parmesan.
- Sweet Potato Fries – A slightly sweet contrast to the savory cheesesteak.
Tip: Serve with dipping sauces like ketchup, ranch, or cheese sauce for extra flavor.
2. Onion Rings
Crispy battered onion rings add a crunchy texture that pairs well with the sandwich. They can be made using beer batter for extra crispiness or baked for a lighter option.
Tip: Serve with a side of honey mustard or spicy mayo for dipping.
3. Coleslaw
A refreshing coleslaw balances the richness of the cheesesteak. You can serve it creamy or vinegar-based, depending on preference.
- Classic Coleslaw – Shredded cabbage, carrots, and mayo dressing.
- Spicy Slaw – Adds jalapeños and a touch of hot sauce.
- Apple Slaw – Mixes in shredded apples for a slight sweetness.
Coleslaw can be served on the side or even added inside the sandwich for extra crunch.
4. Pickles and Peppers
Adding pickles, banana peppers, or jalapeños provides a tangy contrast to the cheesy, savory sandwich. These can be served on the side or placed inside the sandwich for an extra kick.
5. Potato Wedges
For a heartier alternative to fries, thick-cut potato wedges are a great choice. They are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
Seasoning Ideas:
- Classic salt & pepper
- Cajun spice mix
- Garlic & rosemary
6. Side Salad
A light side salad adds freshness and balances the richness of the sandwich.
- Caesar Salad – Romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, and Caesar dressing.
- Greek Salad – Tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese.
- Simple Garden Salad – Mixed greens with a light vinaigrette.
Looking for more fresh salad ideas? Check out this easy chopped salad recipe.
7. Mozzarella Sticks
Fried mozzarella sticks add more cheesy goodness to your meal. Serve with marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.
8. Mac and Cheese
A side of creamy mac and cheese complements the sandwich perfectly. Use cheddar, gouda, or a cheese blend for the best results.
9. Roasted Vegetables
For a healthier side, roasted vegetables provide flavor and nutrition. Some great options include:
- Roasted Brussels sprouts
- Garlic butter green beans
- Oven-roasted zucchini and squash
10. Baked Beans
A bowl of sweet and smoky baked beans adds a comforting, hearty side to your cheesesteak meal.
Expert Tips for the Best Chicken Philly Cheesesteak
Follow these expert tips to make the perfect Chicken Philly Cheesesteak with the best texture and flavor.
1. Use a Cast-Iron Skillet for Maximum Flavor
A cast-iron skillet or griddle gives the best sear on chicken, creating a slightly crispy texture. Unlike nonstick pans, cast iron retains heat better, allowing you to cook at high temperatures without losing moisture.
If using stainless steel, let the oil heat up before adding chicken to prevent sticking.
2. Slice Chicken Thinly for Tender Bites
Thin slices cook faster and absorb seasonings better. If the pieces are too thick, they may dry out before getting the right texture.
How to Get Thin Slices:
- Use a sharp knife.
- Partially freeze the chicken for 15-20 minutes before slicing.
- Cut against the grain for a tender texture.
3. Don’t Overcook the Chicken
Overcooking dries out the chicken. To keep it juicy:
- Cook over medium-high heat until lightly golden.
- Remove when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Let it rest for a few minutes before assembling the sandwich.
If the chicken feels dry, stir in a tablespoon of chicken broth for added moisture.
4. Choose the Right Cheese and Melt It Properly
The cheese is a key ingredient. The best options include:
- Provolone – Mild and melts well.
- White American Cheese – Creamy and smooth.
- Cheez Whiz – Traditional choice for a Philly cheesesteak.
For the perfect melt:
- Place cheese directly on the hot chicken in the pan.
- Cover the skillet with a lid for 1-2 minutes to trap heat.
5. Sauté the Onions and Peppers for Maximum Flavor
Cook onions and peppers until soft and slightly caramelized. This brings out their natural sweetness and enhances the sandwich’s taste.
For extra flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce while cooking.
6. Toast the Bread to Prevent Sogginess
Toasted bread holds up better against the hot filling and prevents sogginess.
- Slice hoagie rolls in half.
- Spread butter on the inside.
- Toast in a pan over medium heat for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
7. Assemble and Serve Immediately
For the best texture and taste, assemble the sandwich right before eating. Serve hot with a side of fries, onion rings, or coleslaw.hicken meal? Try this delicious homemade chicken and gravy recipe.
FAQs About Chicken Philly Cheesesteak
What’s the Best Cheese for a Chicken Philly Cheesesteak?
- Provolone and White American cheese are the best options.
Can I Make a Chicken Philly Cheesesteak in the Oven?
- Yes! Assemble the sandwiches and bake at 375°F for 5 minutes to melt the cheese.
How Do I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
- Use gluten-free hoagie rolls or lettuce wraps.
Can I Meal-Prep Chicken Philly Cheesesteak?
- Yes! Cook the chicken and veggies in advance and store them for up to 3 days.
Conclusion
Making a Chicken Philly Cheesesteak at home is easy and rewarding. Whether you like it classic, spicy, or keto-friendly, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Try it today and enjoy a homemade taste of Philadelphia!