These Chicken Cheese Steak Sandwiches are packed with juicy chicken, melted cheese, and fresh veggies all piled high on a soft roll. They’re quick to make and super tasty!
Honestly, who can resist a sandwich like this? I love adding extra cheese because, let’s be real, you can never have too much cheese! 😄 Perfect for a cozy dinner at home.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I suggest using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a lean and tender sandwich. However, you can swap them for thinly sliced turkey or even sautéed tofu if you’re looking for a meat-free option.
Cheese: Provolone gives a great creaminess, but mozzarella or even a sharp cheddar can work nicely too. If you prefer a vegan option, there are many plant-based cheeses available that can melt well!
Bell Pepper and Onion: Green bell peppers bring a crisp flavor, but red or yellow peppers can offer a sweeter taste. You could also use frozen bell peppers if fresh ones aren’t available. Onions are key, but leeks will add a unique twist!
Spices: Garlic powder and paprika add depth, but feel free to get creative! Cajun spice or Italian herbs can give your chicken a different flavor profile. Adjust based on what you love!
How Do I Get the Chicken Just Right?
Cooking chicken perfectly is essential for this recipe. Follow these steps to ensure it remains juicy and flavorful:
- Slice the chicken thinly; this helps it cook quickly and evenly.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if necessary for even browning.
- Turn the chicken only once during cooking. This allows it to develop a nice color without drying out.
Keep an eye on it – chicken is done when it’s no longer pink inside. Using a meat thermometer for 165°F can help achieve that perfect doneness!
How to Make Chicken Cheese Steak Sandwiches
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Chicken Mixture:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For The Sandwich:
- 4 slices provolone cheese
- 4 hoagie or sub rolls
- Optional: sliced jalapeños for added heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook. That means you can enjoy your Chicken Cheese Steak Sandwiches in just 30 minutes! Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
First, grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s warm, add the sliced onion and green bell pepper. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes, until they’re softened and smell amazing. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set them aside for later.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In the same skillet (no need to wash it!), add the thinly sliced chicken breasts. Sprinkle the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper over the chicken. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chicken is browned and cooked through. It should be nice and juicy!
3. Mix It All Together:
Now, it’s time to bring everything together! Add the sautéed onions and bell peppers back into the skillet with the cooked chicken. Stir everything together and let it heat for another 2-3 minutes. This will let all those yummy flavors combine perfectly.
4. Prepare for Broiling:
Next, preheat your oven broiler. While it’s heating up, take a baking sheet and place your hoagie rolls on it. Fill each roll with the chicken, onion, and pepper mixture you just made. Top each sandwich with a slice of provolone cheese; it’s going to melt beautifully!
5. Broil the Sandwiches:
Now, place the baking sheet with your sandwiches under the broiler for about 2-3 minutes. Keep an eye on them until the cheese is melted and bubbly. It won’t take long!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the sandwiches are ready, carefully take them out of the oven. If you like some heat, add those optional sliced jalapeños on top. Serve your Chicken Cheese Steak Sandwiches right away, and enjoy a tasty meal with friends or family!
Can I Use Different Cheese for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While provolone is traditional, you can swap it with mozzarella, cheddar, or even pepper jack for an extra kick. Just make sure the cheese melts well; if you’re using a harder cheese, consider adding it earlier during broiling to give it more time to melt.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you’re looking for more heat, feel free to add sliced jalapeños, as mentioned, or include some crushed red pepper flakes with the seasonings. You can also use a spicy cheese, like pepper jack, to elevate the flavor even further!
Can I Make This Sandwich Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sautéed vegetables ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat in a skillet, fill the rolls, top with cheese, and broil until bubbly!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the fillings in a skillet or microwave and toast the rolls separately if desired for added crunch. Enjoy your leftovers with a fresh side salad or some crispy fries!