Cheesy Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet Recipe

Are you ready to take your weeknight dinner game to the next level? Look no further than this mouthwatering Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet recipe! Picture this: tender chicken slices, sweet caramelized onions, colorful bell peppers, and that irresistible layer of gooey provolone cheese, all coming together in one skillet for a meal that’s as comforting as it is satisfying. This dish captures all the delicious flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak sandwich without the carb-heavy bun, making it a perfect choice for those craving a lighter yet still indulgent meal.

I stumbled upon this gem of a recipe during that post-holiday limbo period when we’re all tired of elaborate meals but still want something delicious. What started as a simple way to use up ingredients quickly became a family favorite that’s now on regular rotation in our house. The magic lies in the combination of savory chicken, sweet onions, and peppers, all enhanced by the melty goodness of provolone cheese. Trust me, once you try this Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet, it’ll become a go-to for those busy evenings when you want maximum flavor with minimal effort.

Quick Benefits

• Low Carb Option: Perfect for those looking for a lighter meal without sacrificing flavor.
• Versatile Protein Choices: Easily adaptable with turkey, beef, or vegetarian options to suit different preferences.
• Flavorful Components: Caramelized onions, bell peppers, Italian seasoning, and provolone cheese create a delicious, satisfying dish.
• Time-Saving Tips: Prep components in advance, store leftovers for later, and repurpose the mixture for new meal ideas.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet Recipe Recipe

• Incredible Flavor: Enjoy the delicious combination of tender chicken, caramelized onions, and peppers, all topped with gooey melted provolone cheese that mirrors the flavors of a Philly cheesesteak sandwich without the bread.
• Low-Carb Friendly: Perfect for those looking to cut back on carbs while still enjoying a hearty and satisfying meal.
• Easy and Foolproof: A recipe that impresses guests and even non-cooks, showcasing a simple yet flavorful dish that anyone can master.
• Tender Chicken: Thinly sliced chicken breasts remain tender and flavorful, absorbing the seasonings and marrying perfectly with the veggies.
• Colorful and Sweet Bell Peppers: Red and green bell peppers add a sweet contrast to the savory elements, providing both visual appeal and varied flavor notes.
• Caramelized Onions: Slowly cooked onions become golden and sweet, adding a crucial element of flavor to the dish.
• Depth of Flavor: The Italian seasoning blend complements the chicken and veggies, saving you the hassle of measuring multiple individual herbs.
• Perfect Cheese: Provolone cheese offers a mild, tangy flavor and incredible meltability, giving you those satisfying cheese pulls.
• Versatile Serving Options: Customize your meal with hoagie rolls, cauliflower rice, or a simple side salad, or set out additional toppings for a family-style serving experience.
• Protein Variations: Easily adapt this recipe with turkey breast, beef, or portobello mushrooms for different flavor profiles.
• Preparation Tips: Streamline your cooking by prepping components ahead of time, storing leftovers for easy reheating, and repurposing the mixture for new meals.
• Comforting and Familiar: The perfect balance between familiar comfort food and a fresh twist that makes weeknight cooking enjoyable and stress-free.

Ingredients for Cheesy Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet Recipe

Main Ingredients

• 1¼ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
• 1 cup provolone cheese, shredded
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 yellow onion, halved and thinly sliced
• 1½ teaspoons Italian seasoning

How to Make Cheesy Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the vegetables

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. Add thinly sliced yellow onion and bell peppers. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until tender and beginning to caramelize, about 7-8 minutes. Remove vegetables from skillet, keeping any juices.

Step 2: Cook the chicken

In the same skillet over medium-high heat, add the last tablespoon of olive oil. Place thinly sliced chicken breasts in a single layer. Season with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook without moving for 2-3 minutes until one side is nicely seared.

Step 3: Finish cooking the chicken

Continue stirring the chicken and cook until it is fully cooked and no longer pink, approximately 4-5 minutes, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F when checked with a meat thermometer.

Step 4: Combine and add cheese

Add the cooked peppers, onions, and juices back to the skillet with the chicken. Stir to combine. Spread mixture evenly and sprinkle provolone cheese on top.

Step 5: Melt the cheese and serve

Place a lid on the skillet (or use aluminum foil if needed) and reduce heat to medium-low. Allow to sit covered for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted. Remove from heat and serve promptly.

Storage Tips

Once you have prepared the Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet, it is important to store any leftovers properly to maintain freshness and flavor. Leftovers can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, it is recommended to use a skillet instead of the microwave to help maintain the textures of the ingredients and prevent the chicken from becoming rubbery.

If you have extra mixture left over, there are various ways to repurpose it into new meals. The flavorful chicken, vegetable, and cheese combination can be used as a delicious omelette filling, a tasty pizza topping, or stuffed into mushroom caps for a completely different dinner option. By repurposing the leftovers creatively, you can enjoy new dishes that bring variety to your meals while reducing food waste.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking to switch up the protein in this Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet, consider using turkey breast as a substitute for chicken. Slicing it thinly and handling it gently during cooking will help prevent it from drying out while still soaking up all the delicious flavors from the seasonings and vegetables.

For a vegetarian twist on this recipe, portobello mushrooms sliced and sautéed can replace the chicken to provide a similar texture and umami notes. The mushrooms will absorb the seasonings and complement the caramelized onions and bell peppers beautifully, offering a satisfying and flavorful alternative for non-meat eaters.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, consider turning this delicious chicken cheesesteak skillet into a fun appetizer option for your next gathering. Grab some small slider buns or dinner rolls, scoop a generous spoonful of the cheesy chicken and vegetable mixture onto each bun, and top with a slice of pickled jalapeño for a touch of heat. Arrange them on a platter for a tasty and interactive party snack that will surely disappear quickly.

Another creative idea is to transform this skillet meal into a hearty and flavorful topping for loaded nachos. Simply spread a layer of tortilla chips on a baking sheet, spoon the chicken cheesesteak mixture over the chips, sprinkle with extra shredded cheese, and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve with your favorite nacho toppings like sour cream, guacamole, and salsa for a crowd-pleasing snack or game day appetizer that offers a delicious twist on traditional nachos.

FAQs for Cheesy Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet Recipe

Can I use a different type of cheese in this recipe?

Absolutely! While provolone cheese is traditional for a Philly cheesesteak, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like white American for an authentic Philly flavor, pepper jack for some heat, or Swiss for a nutty sweetness.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can save time by slicing the vegetables and chicken earlier in the day or the night before. Store them in separate airtight containers in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. This can help make the dinner preparation quicker when you’re ready to cook.

How can I prevent the chicken from becoming rubbery when reheating leftovers?

When reheating leftovers, it’s best to use a skillet instead of a microwave. Reheating in a skillet helps maintain the textures of the dish and prevents the chicken from becoming rubbery.

What are some protein variations I can try in this recipe?

You can try different protein variations to suit your preferences. Turkey breast can be a great substitute for chicken, while thinly sliced sirloin or ribeye can provide a more traditional Philly cheesesteak experience. For a vegetarian option, you can use portobello mushrooms sliced and sautéed in place of chicken for a similar texture and umami notes.

Conclusion

As you wrap up your culinary journey with the Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet, remember that the heart of cooking lies in the joy of sharing delicious meals with your loved ones. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or just starting out on your culinary adventures, this recipe is a testament to the magic that happens when simple ingredients come together with love and care.

So, gather around the table, savor each cheesy, flavorful bite of your Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet creation, and relish in the warmth and comfort it brings. Let the aroma of caramelized onions and peppers linger in your kitchen, creating memories that will last long after the last morsel is gone. Embrace the versatility and creativity this dish offers, and don’t be afraid to make it your own with different protein options, toppings, and serving styles.

Whether you’re making this for a quick weeknight meal or sharing it with friends and family on a cozy weekend gathering, let the Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet be a reminder that good food is not just about sustenance—it’s about connection, joy, and the simple pleasures of life. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen always be filled with the delicious aromas of home-cooked meals like this delightful Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet.

Cheesy Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet Recipe

“Capture the essence of a Philly cheesesteak without the carbs with this Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet – tender chicken, caramelized veggies, and melted provolone cheese.”

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Prep Time10 Minutes

Cook Time20 Minutes

Total Time30 Minutes

CuisineAmerican

Skill LevelEasy

Servings4 Servings

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1¼ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
• 1 cup provolone cheese, shredded
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 yellow onion, halved and thinly sliced
• 1½ teaspoons Italian seasoning

Instructions

1. Sauté the vegetables: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. Add thinly sliced yellow onion and bell peppers. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until tender and beginning to caramelize, about 7-8 minutes. Remove vegetables from skillet, keeping any juices.
2. Cook the chicken: In the same skillet over medium-high heat, add the last tablespoon of olive oil. Place thinly sliced chicken breasts in a single layer. Season with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook without moving for 2-3 minutes until one side is nicely seared.
3. Finish cooking the chicken: Continue stirring the chicken and cook until it is fully cooked and no longer pink, approximately 4-5 minutes, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F when checked with a meat thermometer.
4. Combine and add cheese: Add the cooked peppers, onions, and juices back to the skillet with the chicken. Stir to combine. Spread mixture evenly and sprinkle provolone cheese on top.
5. Melt the cheese and serve: Place a lid on the skillet (or use aluminum foil if needed) and reduce heat to medium-low. Allow to sit covered for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted. Remove from heat and serve promptly.