If you have been craving something hearty, cheesy, and packed with vibrant flavors then this Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender strips of chicken mingling with sweet sautéed onions and green peppers, all tossed together under a blanket of melted provolone cheese. It’s a simple, one-pan marvel that manages to capture all the comfort of a classic cheesesteak without the bread, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or any time you want to impress without fuss. This dish brings together fresh ingredients in a way that’s both satisfying and easy to make, making it a fast favorite for family and friends alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is wonderfully straightforward, relying on a handful of fresh, flavorful ingredients that come together effortlessly. Each component plays a key role in building the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color that makes this Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet Recipe so special.
- Olive oil (4 tablespoons, divided): Essential for sautéing vegetables and cooking the chicken to golden perfection without sticking.
- Onion (1 medium, thinly sliced): Adds natural sweetness and depth that complements the savory chicken beautifully.
- Green bell peppers (2, sliced): Provide a crisp, fresh bite and vibrant color to the skillet.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Gives the dish a fragrant boost and a subtle punch of flavor.
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts (1¼ lbs, thinly sliced): The hearty protein star of the dish, tender and ready to soak up all the spices and cheese.
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): Brings a perfect medley of herbs that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Provolone cheese (1½ cups, grated): Melts into a luscious, creamy layer that ties the whole dish together.
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: The classic seasoning duo for balancing and rounding out flavors.
How to Make Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
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 soften and sweeten up in the warm fat for about 5 to 7 minutes. Add the minced garlic during the last minute to ensure it doesn’t burn but releases its aromatic qualities. Once the veggies are tender and fragrant, transfer them to a plate and set aside—this step layers the dish early with flavor and texture.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Next, add the remaining olive oil to the same skillet and bring it back to medium-high heat. Introduce the thinly sliced chicken breasts, seasoning well with Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Cook the chicken until it’s nicely browned on the edges and cooked through, about 7 to 9 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. The chicken’s juicy texture is key to making this Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet Recipe a winner.
Step 3: Combine Vegetables and Chicken
Return the sautéed onions, peppers, and garlic to the skillet, stirring everything together so the flavors mingle well. Let everything heat through on medium heat for a couple of minutes—the mingling of savory chicken with sweet veggies is what makes this dish so irresistible.
Step 4: Melt the Cheese
Sprinkle the grated provolone cheese evenly over the skillet’s contents. Cover the skillet with a lid and allow the cheese to melt gently over about 2 to 3 minutes. This cheesy finish adds creamy, gooey goodness, sealing in all the delicious flavors of your Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet Recipe.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the cheese has melted, your skillet is ready to be served piping hot. Whether you enjoy it straight from the pan for a rustic feel or plated neatly, it’s bound to be a crowd-pleaser every single time.
How to Serve Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions makes a lovely fresh contrast to the richness of the cheese and chicken. For a bit of heat, a dash of crushed red pepper flakes adds excitement without overpowering the dish’s harmonious flavors.
Side Dishes
This skillet pairs fantastically with a crisp green salad or classic roasted potatoes for a balanced meal. If you’re craving more veggies, serve with steamed broccoli or a colorful coleslaw to contrast with the savory, cheesy skillet.
Creative Ways to Present
For casual dining, scoop the Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet Recipe onto toasted hoagie rolls to mimic the classic sandwich style without the fuss. Alternatively, serve over rice or creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting bowl meal with extra substance.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually develop even more after resting, making reheated portions taste just as wonderful as fresh.
Freezing
This dish freezes well, too. Transfer cooled leftovers to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to keep the chicken tender and the cheese smooth.
Reheating
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for best results, stirring occasionally until warmed through and the cheese is gooey again. Alternatively, microwave leftovers covered at 50% power to prevent drying out, heating until hot throughout.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While provolone is classic for this Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet Recipe, you can experiment with mozzarella, American cheese, or even a sharp cheddar for different flavor profiles.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely. This skillet holds up well when refrigerated, making it perfect for quick meals throughout the week. Just reheat and add fresh garnishes for a tasty pick-me-up.
Can I swap chicken for beef?
Yes, you can use thinly sliced beef like ribeye or sirloin to create a more traditional cheesesteak vibe, although the chicken version offers a lighter, equally delicious alternative.
What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?
No worries! You can substitute with a mix of dried oregano, basil, thyme, and a pinch of crushed red pepper to keep the herby flavor alive in your Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet Recipe.
How spicy is this recipe?
By default, it’s quite mild, focusing on sweet and savory notes. If you like a kick, feel free to add hot sauce or chili flakes during cooking or as a garnish.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet Recipe is truly a gem for those who love comfort food without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s fresh, cheesy, and packed with wholesome ingredients that make every bite satisfying. I encourage you to give it a try—once you do, it might just become your go-to weeknight dinner that everyone at the table will adore.
Print
Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet is a quick and delicious one-pan meal featuring tender, thinly sliced chicken breasts cooked with sautéed onions, green bell peppers, and garlic, all topped with melted provolone cheese. Perfect for a satisfying dinner, it combines the classic flavors of a cheesesteak into a healthier, skillet-friendly version that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 green bell peppers, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Protein
- 1¼ lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
Dairy
- 1½ cups provolone cheese, grated
Oils and Seasonings
- 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and green bell peppers. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5 to 7 minutes. In the last minute of cooking, add the minced garlic and stir frequently to avoid burning. Once done, remove the vegetables from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook Chicken: Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the same skillet. Add the thinly sliced chicken breasts and season with Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Cook the chicken, stirring occasionally, until it is browned and fully cooked through, about 7 to 9 minutes.
- Combine Chicken and Vegetables: Return the sautéed onions, bell peppers, and garlic to the skillet with the cooked chicken. Stir well to combine all the ingredients and continue to cook for 2 minutes to allow flavors to meld and everything to heat through.
- Melt Cheese: Evenly sprinkle the grated provolone cheese over the chicken and vegetable mixture in the skillet. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the cheese melt, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes. Remove the lid carefully once the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Serve the Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet hot directly from the pan. Enjoy it on its own or paired with your favorite side dishes such as rice, bread, or a fresh salad.
Notes
- You can substitute provolone cheese with mozzarella or cheddar based on preference.
- For extra spice, add crushed red pepper flakes while cooking the chicken.
- Use boneless skinless chicken thighs if preferred for a slightly juicier result.
- Serve with toasted hoagie rolls for a classic cheesesteak sandwich experience.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
