This Easy Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet is a fun twist on the classic. It combines juicy chicken, onions, and peppers all cooked in one pan, then topped with melty cheese for extra goodness!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a meal that’s easy to clean up? I whip this up for a quick dinner and serve it with crusty bread. Trust me, you’ll want to savor every cheesy bite! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a quick cook time. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can swap in turkey breast instead. Vegetarian? Try using tofu or a mix of mushrooms for a hearty texture.
Bell Peppers: The combination of red and green adds color and sweetness. If you don’t have them, any color bell pepper works. Zucchini or asparagus can also be delicious substitutes for a different flavor.
Onions: Yellow onions bring a sweetness that complements the chicken and peppers. If you’re out, white onions or even shallots can work, though they will taste a bit sharper.
Cheese: Provolone is traditional, giving that classic cheesesteak taste. However, mozzarella melts beautifully, too! If you’re dairy-free, try a vegan cheese shreds that melts well.
How Do I Get the Chicken to Cook Perfectly?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but I have some handy tips. Start with your skillet on medium-high heat to get a nice sear. Slice the chicken thinly to help it cook quickly and evenly.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes until it’s browned and no longer pink inside. Don’t rush it!
- If you’re worried about it drying out, cover the skillet for part of the cooking time to keep moisture in.
This method will give you juicy chicken to mix with those delicious caramelized veggies! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 1 cup shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 15 minutes to cook, making it a total of about 25 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sautéing the Chicken:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s warm, add in the sliced chicken. Season the chicken with smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned and fully cooked. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Cooking the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, toss in the sliced onions and bell peppers. Sauté them for about 5-6 minutes until they become softened and slightly caramelized. This not only enhances their flavor but also adds a lovely color to your dish!
3. Adding Garlic and Combining:
Next, add the minced garlic to the veggies and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. Don’t skip this step; it brings all the flavors together! Now, return the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the onions and peppers. Stir everything together and let it cook for another minute, allowing the flavors to marry perfectly.
4. Melting the Cheese:
Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the chicken and veggie mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it sit for about 2-3 minutes. This will help the cheese melt beautifully, turning your skillet into a cheesy delight!
5. Serve It Up!
Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, remove the skillet from the heat. You can serve it hot straight from the skillet. It’s perfect on its own or accompanied by toasted hoagie rolls or some crusty bread for a classic cheesesteak experience.
Enjoy your quick and flavorful Easy Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet! It’s sure to be a hit with family and friends!
FAQ for Easy Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet
Can I Use Other Proteins in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for alternatives, thinly sliced beef or turkey would work great. For a vegetarian option, try using mushrooms, tempeh, or even seitan to replace the chicken.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you like heat, add the optional crushed red pepper flakes while cooking the chicken. You can also include diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the mix for extra kick!
Can I Prep This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can certainly prep ahead! Slice the chicken and veggies and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. This will save you time during the week. Just be sure to cook them fresh for the best texture and flavor!
What Should I Serve With This Dish?
This skillet dish is perfect on its own but pairs wonderfully with toasted hoagie rolls, crusty bread, or even a side salad for a more balanced meal. Enjoy it with your favorite dipping sauces for an extra treat!
