Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet
Introduction
The Philly cheesesteak is a beloved American classic, known for its savory combination of thinly sliced beef, sautéed onions, and gooey melted cheese, all piled onto a soft roll. But what if you could enjoy the same delicious flavors in a slightly healthier, low-carb version that’s also incredibly easy to prepare? Enter the Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet—a one-pan wonder that transforms the essence of a Philly cheesesteak into a mouthwatering, skillet-cooked meal featuring tender chicken, vibrant bell peppers, onions, and, of course, plenty of melted cheese.
In this article, we’ll dive into the origins of the cheesesteak, explore the versatility and benefits of using chicken in this dish, and provide you with a detailed, step-by-step guide to making your own Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet at home. Plus, we’ll offer tips for perfecting the recipe, variations to suit different tastes, and ideas for sides and pairings to complete your meal. By the end, you’ll be ready to whip up this delicious dish in your own kitchen, no matter your cooking experience.
The Origins of the Cheesesteak
Before we delve into the skillet version, let’s take a quick look at the history of the classic Philly cheesesteak. The cheesesteak was born in Philadelphia in the 1930s, thanks to Pat Olivieri, a hot dog vendor who decided to throw some beef on his grill one day. The aroma attracted the attention of a taxi driver, who asked for a sandwich. Pat obliged, and the Philly cheesesteak was born. The sandwich quickly gained popularity, especially after Olivieri opened his own shop, Pat’s King of Steaks.
The traditional cheesesteak features thinly sliced ribeye beef, cooked on a griddle with onions, and topped with melted cheese, typically provolone, American cheese, or the controversial yet beloved Cheese Whiz. It’s served on a hoagie roll, making for a rich, hearty sandwich that’s become a symbol of Philadelphia cuisine.
Why Chicken Cheesesteak?
While the original beef cheesesteak is undeniably delicious, swapping the beef for chicken offers several advantages:
- Healthier Alternative: Chicken is a leaner protein compared to beef, making it a healthier choice for those watching their fat intake or looking for a lighter meal.
- Quick and Easy: Chicken cooks faster than beef, making this skillet meal a great option for busy weeknights.
- Versatile: Chicken pairs well with a wide variety of vegetables and seasonings, allowing for endless customization options.
- One-Pan Wonder: Cooking everything in a single skillet means less cleanup, which is always a plus.
Step-by-Step Recipe for Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by slicing the chicken breasts or thighs into thin strips. This is easiest to do if the chicken is slightly frozen, as it will hold its shape better under the knife. Once sliced, season the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss the chicken in the seasonings to ensure it’s evenly coated.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken slices to the skillet in a single layer. Cook the chicken for about 4-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s fully cooked and slightly browned. Be careful not to overcrowd the skillet—cook the chicken in batches if necessary. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers to the skillet and cook them over medium heat. Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are softened and slightly caramelized. If you’re using mushrooms or jalapeños, add them at this stage as well. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the garlic is fragrant.
Step 4: Combine the Chicken and Vegetables
Once the vegetables are cooked, return the chicken to the skillet. Stir everything together so that the chicken is evenly distributed among the vegetables. If you prefer a juicier dish, you can add 1/4 cup of beef or chicken broth at this point, which will help keep everything moist and flavorful.
Step 5: Add the Cheese
Reduce the heat to low. Arrange the slices of provolone cheese over the top of the chicken and vegetable mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the cheese melt, about 2-3 minutes. The cheese should be gooey and fully melted, enveloping the chicken and vegetables in a creamy layer of deliciousness.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the cheese is melted, your Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet is ready to serve. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve it hot. You can enjoy this dish on its own for a low-carb option, or serve it with hoagie rolls to make classic cheesesteak sandwiches. Don’t forget to add some pickles or pepperoncini on the side for an extra burst of flavor.
Variations of Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet
The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. Here are some tasty variations to try:
1. Mushroom Swiss Chicken Cheesesteak
Swap out the provolone for Swiss cheese and add a generous amount of sautéed mushrooms to the mix. The earthy flavor of the mushrooms pairs beautifully with the creamy Swiss cheese, creating a rich and comforting version of the dish.
2. Spicy Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet
If you like your food with a kick, add sliced jalapeños and a few dashes of hot sauce to the skillet along with the vegetables. You can also use pepper jack cheese instead of provolone for an extra spicy twist.
3. Italian Chicken Cheesesteak
For an Italian-inspired version, add some marinara sauce to the skillet before melting the cheese. Top with mozzarella cheese instead of provolone and garnish with fresh basil. This variation is perfect for serving over pasta or on a crusty Italian roll.
4. Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteak
Combine the flavors of buffalo chicken and cheesesteak by tossing the cooked chicken in buffalo sauce before adding it back to the skillet. Use blue cheese or ranch dressing for the cheese layer, and top with chopped celery for crunch.
5. Cheesesteak Quesadilla
Turn your Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet into a quesadilla by folding the mixture into flour tortillas and grilling them until crispy. Serve with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for dipping.
Tips for Perfecting Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet
To ensure your Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
1. Use Thinly Sliced Chicken
Thinly slicing the chicken is key to achieving that tender, juicy texture reminiscent of a classic cheesesteak. If you’re having trouble slicing the chicken thinly, try placing it in the freezer for about 20 minutes before cutting—it will be firmer and easier to slice.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet
When cooking the chicken, avoid overcrowding the skillet, as this can cause the chicken to steam rather than sear. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches to ensure it browns properly.
3. Caramelize the Onions
Take your time sautéing the onions to allow them to caramelize. This will bring out their natural sweetness and add a deeper flavor to the dish.
4. Choose Your Cheese Wisely
While provolone is the traditional choice for cheesesteaks, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Swiss, or even cheddar. The key is to use a cheese that melts well and complements the other flavors in the dish.
5. Customize the Seasoning
Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste. If you prefer a smoky flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or chipotle powder. For a more savory dish, increase the garlic and onion powder.
Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet
The Philly cheesesteak is a beloved American classic, known for its savory combination of thinly sliced beef, sautéed onions, and gooey melted cheese, all piled onto a soft roll. But what if you could enjoy the same delicious flavors in a slightly healthier, low-carb version that’s also incredibly easy to prepare? Enter the Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet—a one-pan wonder that transforms the essence of a Philly cheesesteak into a mouthwatering, skillet-cooked meal featuring tender chicken, vibrant bell peppers, onions, and, of course, plenty of melted cheese.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil divided
- 1 yellow onion halved and thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper thinly sliced
- 1 1/4 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts thinly sliced
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
Instructions
- Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot add in the sliced peppers, onion, and plenty of salt and pepper. Sauté the vegetables until they are very tender and then remove them from the skillet and onto a plate.
- Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Add the sliced chicken in along with the Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt and pepper. Move it around so that it's in a single layer and then let it cook without moving it for a couple minutes so that it browns.
- Continue to sauté the meat until it's fully cooked then add the onions, peppers and any juices left on the plate back into the skillet. Stir everything together and top it with the shredded provolone cheese.
- Cover the skillet with a lid until the cheese has melted and then serve.
Nutrition Information:
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 360