This Cheesy Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet is a warm and hearty meal that’s packed with juicy chicken and melted cheese. It’s quick to make, perfect for busy nights!
Honestly, who wouldn’t love cheese bubbling over tender chicken? I love serving it with a crusty roll for a little extra crunch—so good, you might just want seconds! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Thinly sliced chicken is key for a quick cook. If you need a substitute, turkey or even firm tofu works well for a lighter option. Personally, I always opt for organic chicken when possible for better flavor.
Bell Peppers: The combo of red and green adds sweetness and crunch. You can swap any color bell peppers you prefer or use frozen stir-fry mixes to save time. I often use yellow peppers for a sweeter taste!
Onion: Yellow onions are the best here since they get sweet when cooked. If you’re not a fan of onion, try using leeks or scallions for a milder flavor.
Cheese: I recommend shredded mozzarella for its meltiness, but provolone adds a nice kick. If looking for lighter options, use part-skim cheese or dairy-free alternatives for a healthier twist.
What’s the Best Way to Sauté Vegetables Without Burning Them?
Sautéing vegetables can be tricky! Here’s how to do it right:
- Use medium-high heat but monitor closely. High heat can cause burning, especially on the edges.
- Add a touch of water if they start to stick. This creates steam that helps soften them without burning.
- Stir frequently. This makes sure everything cooks evenly and prevents burning.
Letting them caramelize a bit adds flavor, but watch carefully—nobody likes burnt bits in their meal!
How to Make Cheesy Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp 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)
- Optional: crusty rolls or hoagie buns (for serving)
Estimated Time Needed:
This delicious meal will take about 20 minutes total—5-7 minutes for prepping your ingredients and about 10-12 minutes for cooking everything. It’s a quick and tasty option for busy days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. This will be the base for all your ingredients and ensure they cook nicely.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Next, add the sliced chicken breast to the skillet. Season it with paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally until it’s browned and cooked through. Once done, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and bell peppers to cook. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes until they are softened and a little caramelized. This adds a lovely flavor!
4. Add Garlic:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 additional minute. Keep stirring to prevent the garlic from burning. It should smell fantastic at this point!
5. Combine Everything:
Now, return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir everything together, combining the flavors of the chicken, veggies, and spices.
6. Add Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let it sit for 3-5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the cheese has melted, take the skillet off the heat. Serve the cheesy chicken cheesesteak hot and pile it onto crusty rolls or hoagie buns if you like. This dish is best enjoyed fresh!
Enjoy your delicious cheesy chicken cheesesteak skillet! It’s comforting and satisfying—perfect for a weeknight dinner! 🥳
FAQ About Cheesy Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, but it’s best to thaw the chicken completely before slicing and cooking. For quick thawing, place the frozen chicken in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for about 30-60 minutes. Pat it dry before cooking to ensure it browns nicely.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauté the vegetables in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat in a skillet, add the cheese, and cover until bubbly.
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftover cheesy chicken cheesesteak skillet can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if it seems dry, or microwave for a quick meal!
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This cheesy chicken cheesesteak skillet is great on its own, but for a more filling meal, consider serving it with crusty rolls, hoagie buns, or over rice or pasta. A simple side salad or roasted veggies works well too!
