If you are craving a hearty, satisfying sandwich that is both easy to make and bursting with flavor, look no further than the chicken Philly cheesesteak recipe. This classic American favorite, traditionally known for its savory beef filling, has been reinvented with juicy chicken to offer a lighter yet equally delicious option. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering chicken Philly cheesesteak recipe, packed with tender chicken, melted cheese, and sauteed veggies that will transport you straight to the streets of Philadelphia.
The key to a perfect chicken Philly cheesesteak lies in its seasoning, cooking technique, and, of course, the right balance of flavors. This recipe is versatile, allowing you to make adjustments to suit your taste while staying true to the essence of a classic Philly cheesesteak.
Why You Should Try This Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe
The chicken Philly cheesesteak recipe offers several benefits that make it a must-try:
- Healthier Option: Chicken is leaner than beef, offering a lower calorie and fat alternative while still providing plenty of protein.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe is simple and can be ready in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Delicious Flavor: Packed with melted cheese, sauteed bell peppers, onions, and savory chicken, this sandwich will please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients for Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe
To make the perfect chicken Philly cheesesteak, you will need the following ingredients:
- Chicken Breast: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
- Bell Peppers: 1 green bell pepper, 1 red bell pepper
- Onion: 1 medium onion
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Cheese: Provolone cheese or any melty cheese of your choice
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Worcestershire Sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Hoagie Rolls: 4 rolls, ideally soft and fresh
- Optional: Mushrooms, jalapenos, or other vegetables for added flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Begin by placing the chicken breast on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, thinly slice the chicken against the grain to get tender pieces.
- For easier slicing, you can freeze the chicken for about 30 minutes before cutting.
2. Marinate and Season the Chicken
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced chicken with salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and minced garlic. Let the mixture marinate for at least 15 minutes. This step helps infuse the chicken with the rich flavors that are characteristic of a Philly cheesesteak.
Marinating the chicken is a crucial step that should not be skipped, as it not only adds flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat. Worcestershire sauce, in particular, has a unique blend of spices and umami that makes it perfect for adding depth to this dish. If you prefer a stronger flavor, you can let the chicken marinate for up to an hour.
3. Saute the Vegetables
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add sliced bell peppers and onions to the skillet, and saute for about 5-7 minutes, until they are soft and lightly caramelized.
- Remove the veggies from the skillet and set them aside.
The vegetables play a significant role in adding layers of flavor to this recipe. Caramelizing the onions brings out their natural sweetness, which pairs beautifully with the savory chicken and the sharpness of the cheese. You can also add a dash of balsamic vinegar to the onions while they cook to enhance their flavor even more.
4. Cook the Chicken
- In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil and heat over medium-high heat.
- Add the marinated chicken slices and cook for about 5-7 minutes until fully cooked. The chicken should be lightly browned with no pink remaining.
Cooking the chicken at medium-high heat allows it to get a nice sear, which adds a delicious texture and flavor to the final sandwich. Be careful not to overcook the chicken, as it can become dry. If you are unsure whether the chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer—it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
5. Combine and Melt the Cheese
- Lower the heat to medium, and return the sauteed bell peppers and onions to the skillet with the chicken.
- Layer slices of Provolone cheese on top of the chicken and veggie mixture. Cover the skillet and let the cheese melt, which should take about 1-2 minutes.
The type of cheese you use can significantly impact the flavor of your chicken Philly cheesesteak. Provolone cheese has a mild, creamy taste that melts beautifully, making it a popular choice. However, you can also experiment with other types of cheese, such as American cheese for a classic diner-style taste or Mozzarella for a milder, gooey texture.
6. Assemble the Sandwich
- Slice the hoagie rolls lengthwise, leaving one side intact to hold the filling.
- Use a spatula to scoop up the cheesy chicken and veggies and place them inside the hoagie rolls.
- For an extra touch, you can toast the hoagie rolls in the skillet before assembling for added crunch.
Toasting the hoagie rolls adds a delightful crunch to the sandwich, which contrasts nicely with the soft, melty filling. If you prefer a softer sandwich, you can skip this step, but toasting is highly recommended for that extra texture.
Tips for the Best Chicken Philly Cheesesteak
- Use Thinly Sliced Chicken: Thin slices cook faster and absorb more flavor. If you have trouble slicing the chicken thinly, try freezing it for about 30 minutes beforehand.
- Perfect the Cheese: Provolone cheese is traditionally used, but feel free to use American cheese or Mozzarella for a different twist.
- Vegetable Variety: You can add mushrooms, spinach, or jalapenos to enhance the nutritional value and flavor profile.
- Season Well: The right seasoning is crucial for the best flavor. Don’t be afraid to add extra Worcestershire sauce, garlic, or even a sprinkle of paprika for some added depth.
- Use Fresh Rolls: The bread is just as important as the filling. Choose soft, fresh hoagie rolls that can hold up to the juicy filling without becoming soggy.
Nutritional Benefits of Chicken Philly Cheesesteak
One of the best parts of this chicken Philly cheesesteak recipe is that it offers a healthier alternative to the traditional beef version. Chicken breast is a lean source of protein that is lower in saturated fat compared to beef. This makes it an excellent option for those who are looking to reduce their calorie intake or improve heart health.
Additionally, the use of bell peppers and onions adds important vitamins and minerals to the dish. Bell peppers are high in vitamin C, which supports immune health, while onions contain antioxidants that can reduce inflammation. Using olive oil instead of butter further reduces saturated fat and adds heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
Variations of the Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe
- Spicy Chicken Philly: Add jalapenos or hot sauce to spice things up for those who love a kick. You could also use pepper jack cheese for an extra layer of heat.
- Garlic Butter Chicken Philly: Saute the vegetables and chicken in garlic butter for a richer flavor. This variation is perfect for those who love a buttery, garlicky taste.
- Low Carb Option: Serve the cheesy chicken and veggies in a lettuce wrap instead of a hoagie roll for a keto-friendly alternative. You can also use portobello mushroom caps as a bread substitute for a unique twist.
- BBQ Chicken Philly: For a smoky flavor, add a bit of BBQ sauce to the chicken while it cooks. This gives the sandwich a sweet and tangy flavor that pairs well with cheddar cheese.
- Mediterranean Chicken Philly: Add ingredients like feta cheese, black olives, and oregano for a Mediterranean twist. Serve it with a side of tzatziki sauce for dipping.
Serving Suggestions
The chicken Philly cheesesteak is quite versatile and pairs well with various side dishes. Here are some ideas to serve alongside this hearty sandwich:
- Sweet Potato Fries: The sweetness of sweet potato fries complements the savory flavors of the chicken cheesesteak.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds a crunchy texture and a hint of acidity that balances out the richness of the sandwich.
- Pickles: Dill pickles are a classic side that adds a nice tangy contrast to the cheesy sandwich.
- Potato Salad: For a more filling side, a potato salad can be an excellent addition. Opt for a light, vinegar-based dressing to keep it from feeling too heavy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the secret ingredient in Philly cheesesteak?
The secret ingredient in a classic Philly cheesesteak is the Worcestershire sauce. It adds a depth of umami flavor that enhances both the meat and the veggies, giving the sandwich its characteristic taste. In addition, the use of Provolone cheese or even Cheez Whiz (in the original beef version) contributes to its signature flavor.
What is chicken cheesesteak made of?
Chicken cheesesteak is typically made with thinly sliced chicken breast, onions, bell peppers, and cheese. The combination is served in a hoagie roll, with optional seasonings like Worcestershire sauce for added flavor. The sandwich is similar to the traditional beef Philly cheesesteak, but the chicken offers a lighter alternative that retains all the delicious elements of the classic version.
What gives Philly cheesesteak its flavor?
The rich flavor of a Philly cheesesteak comes from the caramelized onions, sauteed bell peppers, melted cheese, and the generous use of Worcestershire sauce. Cooking the ingredients together allows the flavors to meld perfectly. Additionally, the type of cheese used plays a significant role in the overall taste—Provolone and American cheese are commonly used to give that creamy, savory element.
How do you shave chicken breast for cheesesteak?
To shave chicken breast for a cheesesteak, place the chicken in the freezer for about 30 minutes to firm it up. Then, use a sharp knife to cut very thin slices against the grain. This method ensures the chicken cooks quickly and stays tender. If you have a meat slicer, you can use that to achieve even thinner slices, which will give your cheesesteak a more authentic texture.
Can I Make a Vegetarian Version of the Philly Cheesesteak?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with portobello mushrooms or soy-based meat alternatives. Saute the mushrooms or plant-based protein with onions, bell peppers, and Worcestershire sauce for a vegetarian-friendly version. You can even use vegan cheese to make it completely plant-based. The key is to keep the same cooking technique to ensure the flavors meld together perfectly.
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese?
Yes, while Provolone cheese is the classic choice, there are several other types of cheese that work well in this recipe. For a more intense flavor, you could use sharp cheddar, while mozzarella provides a very creamy and mild option. If you want to experiment with the flavors, pepper jack adds some spice, and Swiss cheese introduces a nutty note that pairs surprisingly well with the savory chicken and vegetables.
The History of the Philly Cheesesteak
Understanding the origins of the Philly cheesesteak adds a layer of appreciation to this beloved sandwich. The Philly cheesesteak was first invented in Philadelphia in the 1930s by Pat and Harry Olivieri. They ran a hot dog stand but decided to try something new, combining beef with onions on an Italian roll. The sandwich quickly gained popularity, and soon after, cheese was added, giving birth to the iconic Philly cheesesteak we know today. Today, cheesesteaks are a staple in Philadelphia, with numerous variations, including this delicious chicken Philly cheesesteak version.
The chicken Philly cheesesteak is a modern twist on the original, providing a lighter option while maintaining all the flavors that make it special. While the beef version remains iconic, many people appreciate the lower fat content and versatility of the chicken version, especially when it comes to experimenting with different cheeses and vegetables.
Conclusion
This chicken Philly cheesesteak recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a classic sandwich in a healthier, more versatile format. It’s simple to prepare, packed with flavor, and highly customizable. Whether you prefer it spicy, loaded with vegetables, or smothered in cheese, the chicken Philly cheesesteak can be adapted to suit any taste. The key to a great Philly cheesesteak is in the quality of the ingredients and the cooking technique, and with this recipe, you’ll be making mouthwatering sandwiches that everyone will love.
Why not try making this recipe for your next family dinner or gathering? It’s sure to be a hit, and it provides a delightful alternative to more traditional sandwiches. Plus, with the ability to adjust the ingredients to your liking, you can create a chicken Philly cheesesteak that’s perfect for you.