This Easy Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet is a yummy one-pan wonder! Tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and melted cheese come together for a satisfying meal.
I love how quick this dish is to whip up on a busy night. Just toss everything in the skillet, and dinner is served! Plus, cheesy goodness makes it a family favorite. 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Thinly sliced chicken breast is the star here. You can use chicken thighs for a juicier option, or even leftover rotisserie chicken to save time.
Bell Peppers: I used green and red peppers, but feel free to switch it up! Yellow or orange peppers work well for sweetness, and you can add other veggies like zucchini or spinach for extra nutrition.
Onion: A medium onion provides great flavor. Sweet onions, like Vidalia, can also be a tasty substitute. If you’re not a fan of onions, you can skip them altogether.
Cheese: Provolone is traditional for cheesesteaks, but mozzarella is great too! If you’re avoiding dairy, try a non-dairy cheese or skip it for a lighter version—it’ll still taste delicious!
How Do I Cook The Chicken Perfectly?
Cooking chicken can sometimes be tricky, but here’s a simple way to get tender, flavorful pieces every time:
- Start with a hot skillet and olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Be sure to slice the chicken thinly; this helps it cook faster and evenly.
- Season well with salt and spices before adding to the pan for maximum flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to get that nice golden color.
- Cook until it’s no longer pink and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Easy Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese
- Optional: sliced mushrooms (about 1 cup), if desired
How Much Time Will You Need?
This yummy Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 15-20 minutes of cooking time. In just about 30-35 minutes, you can have a delicious meal ready — perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Olive Oil:
Start by pouring the olive oil into a large skillet and heating it over medium-high heat. You want it hot enough for the chicken to sizzle when you add it.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Once the oil is hot, add the thinly sliced chicken breast. Season it with salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and smoked paprika. Cook, stirring often, for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and has a light golden color.
3. Set the Chicken Aside:
After the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. We’ll be adding it back shortly!
4. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, you can add a little more oil if needed. Toss in the sliced onions, green and red bell peppers, and mushrooms if you’re using them. Sauté for about 5-6 minutes, until the veggies are tender and starting to lightly caramelize.
5. Add Garlic:
Once the veggies are ready, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant. This adds a wonderful flavor to the mixture!
6. Combine Chicken and Veggies:
Now, return the chicken to the skillet and stir everything together until well combined. The colorful mix will look so appetizing!
7. Melt the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the chicken and veggie mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese melts to gooey perfection!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the cheese is melted, remove the skillet from the heat. You can serve this dish hot as-is or load it onto warm hoagie rolls for delicious cheesesteak sandwiches. Alternatively, serve it over rice for a hearty meal. Enjoy your tasty chicken cheesesteak skillet!
Frequently Asked Questions about Easy Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover cooked chicken works perfectly here. Just skip the initial cooking step and add the shredded chicken when you combine it with the veggies. Just heat through until everything is warmed and the flavors meld.
What Can I Substitute for Cheese?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can use a plant-based cheese that melts well. Alternatively, you could skip the cheese completely and add a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce or BBQ sauce for extra flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. You might want to add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist while reheating.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to customize this skillet with your favorite veggies. Spinach, zucchini, or even corn can be great additions. Just add them when you’re sautéing the other vegetables so they cook properly.
