This Easy Cheesy Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet is a warm and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, colorful peppers, and melted cheese all in one pan. It’s quick, tasty, and ready in no time!
You can’t beat the cheesy goodness! I usually serve this over rice or in toasted bread, turning it into a perfect meal for busy nights when I’m craving something hearty and delicious. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are best for this recipe, providing lean protein. If you’re looking for a twist, substitute with turkey breast or even firm tofu for a vegetarian version.
Peppers: A mix of green and red bell peppers adds color and sweetness. If you have other colors on hand like yellow or orange, feel free to use those! You can also use sliced mushrooms for a different flavor.
Onion: Yellow onions are ideal for their sweetness when cooked. You can swap them with sweet onions or shallots for a more delicate taste.
Cheese: While I love mozzarella for the gooey melt, provolone gives you that true cheesesteak flavor. If you want a dairy-free option, try using cashew cheese or vegan mozzarella.
How Do You Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the chicken just right is key for this dish. Here’s how to ensure it’s juicy and flavorful:
- Cut chicken into thin strips for even cooking.
- Cook on medium-high heat to get a nice sear. This helps lock in juices.
- Be sure to season the chicken while it’s cooking to build flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; this can cause it to steam instead of brown.
Take your time and keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking! You want that chicken tender and delicious.
Easy Cheesy Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or provolone for authentic cheesesteak flavor)
- Optional: 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes for heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking, making it a quick 25-minute meal from start to finish. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the thinly sliced chicken. Season with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and oregano. Cook while stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Cook the Vegetables:
In the same skillet (adding a bit more oil if necessary), toss in the sliced onions and bell peppers. Sauté them for about 5 minutes until the vegetables become softened but still have a nice crunch. This step brings out their sweetness!
3. Add Garlic and Combine:
Next, add the minced garlic to the veggies and cook for an additional 30 seconds to allow the garlic to release its delicious aroma. Then, return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir everything together. Let it cook for another 1-2 minutes to blend all those wonderful flavors.
4. Melt the Cheese:
Now for the best part! Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the chicken and veggie mix. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the cheese melt for about 2-3 minutes until it’s bubbly and delicious.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the cheese has melted, remove the skillet from heat. You can serve this dish hot as is for a low-carb dinner, over toasted hoagie rolls for a classic cheesesteak experience, or over rice for a heartier meal. Enjoy your cheesy creation!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with thinly sliced turkey or beef for a different flavor. For a vegetarian option, try using firm tofu or tempeh. Just adjust cooking times as needed based on the protein you choose!
What Can I Substitute for Cheese?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option or simply wish to cut calories, you can use vegan cheese shreds. Alternatively, nutritional yeast can be sprinkled on top for a cheesy flavor without the calories.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and vegetable mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, just reheat in a skillet, sprinkle cheese on top, and melt until bubbly!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
