This Easy Cheesy Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet is a one-pan wonder! Juicy chicken, colorful peppers, and gooey cheese come together for a quick, tasty meal.
You know it’s a hit when my family is fighting over the last cheesy bite! I love serving it over rice or with bread to soak up all that cheesy goodness. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this dish. If you’re looking for an alternative, turkey breast or even firm tofu works well too for a lighter option.
Bell Peppers: Red and green bell peppers give great color and flavor. If either is unavailable, feel free to swap in yellow or even poblano peppers. Each has a unique taste!
Onion: Sweet onions are best for their mild flavor, but yellow onions can do the trick too. If you want a sharper taste, opt for red onions or shallots.
Cheese: I love mozzarella for its meltiness. Provolone is a fantastic alternative that adds a more intense flavor. You can even mix cheeses for a richer taste.
How Do I Get the Chicken Cooked Evenly?
Getting perfectly cooked chicken is key to this dish. Start with thinly sliced pieces so they cook faster and more evenly. Here’s how to ensure your chicken is juicy and tender:
- Make sure the skillet is preheated before adding the chicken. This helps to sear the meat quickly and keep it moist.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! If needed, cook the chicken in batches for better heat distribution.
- Use a meat thermometer if you’re unsure; chicken is safe to eat when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Easy Cheesy Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced into strips
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or provolone cheese slices)
- Optional: hoagie rolls or bread for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious skillet meal takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to cook, making it a quick and easy option for any weeknight dinner. In just about 30 minutes, you’ll have a mouthwatering meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the sliced onions and bell peppers to the skillet. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they are softened and slightly caramelized. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In the same skillet, add the sliced chicken. Season it with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is cooked through and nicely browned.
3. Combine and Add Cheese:
Next, return the cooked onions and peppers to the skillet with the chicken. Stir everything together to combine and heat through. Now, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the chicken and vegetable mixture.
4. Melt the Cheese:
Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil and cook for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts completely and is gooey and delicious. This step brings it all together!
5. Serve Up and Enjoy:
Now you’re ready to serve! You can enjoy this cheesy chicken cheesesteak straight from the skillet or spoon it into hoagie rolls for a tasty sandwich. Either way, it’s sure to be a hit!
Enjoy this quick and hearty one-skillet cheesy chicken cheesesteak—perfect for a weeknight meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Proteins Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with thinly sliced turkey, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian version. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, especially for beef.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you’re looking to add some heat, you can include diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce while cooking the chicken. Adjust according to your heat preference!
Can I Make This Meal Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and vegetables a day in advance and store them in the fridge. When ready to eat, just heat them up in the skillet, add cheese, and melt as instructed!
What Are the Best Storage Tips for 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 until heated through.
