This Easy Cheesy Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet is a fun meal packed with chicken, peppers, and lots of gooey cheese. It’s a delicious one-pan dish that’s ready in no time!
You won’t believe how simple this is! Just throw everything in the skillet and enjoy cheesy goodness without spending hours in the kitchen. Perfect for busy weeknights! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe due to their quick cooking time. You could use rotisserie chicken for even quicker prep or swap it with turkey for a lighter option.
Bell Peppers: I love the mix of red and green bell peppers for flavor and color, but any variety, including yellow or orange, works well. You can even throw in mushrooms for a bit of earthiness if you like!
Cheese: Provolone brings a nice melty texture and flavor. But mozzarella is a good substitute or even a mixture of both. If you’re dairy-free, try nutritional yeast or a plant-based cheese alternative.
Spices: The Italian seasoning and smoked paprika really add depth. If you don’t have these spices at home, Italian herbs (like oregano or basil) and a splash of liquid smoke can work as substitutes.
How Do I Make Sure the Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Getting that chicken just right is key to the dish. Here’s how to do it:
- Cut the chicken into thin, even slices to ensure they cook quickly and evenly.
- Heat your skillet well before adding the chicken, aiming for medium-high heat. This helps to get a nice sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! If needed, cook in batches to avoid steaming the chicken.
- Cook until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
Cooking the chicken this way will keep it juicy and full of flavor, giving you the perfect base for your cheesesteak skillet!
Easy Cheesy Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 cup shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation and about 10-15 minutes of cooking time. So, in total, you’re looking at around 30 minutes from start to finish for a delicious and satisfying meal. Perfect for a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
First, heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the thinly sliced chicken to the skillet. Season it with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Cook the chicken until it’s nicely browned and no longer pink in the middle, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add in the sliced onions and bell peppers. Sauté them until they’re softened and slightly caramelized, which will take about 5-6 minutes. Don’t forget to add the minced garlic in the last minute of cooking and stir it for about 30 seconds to bring out its flavor.
3. Combine Everything:
Now, return the cooked chicken to the skillet with your sautéed vegetables. Stir well to combine everything and heat it through.
4. Melt the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of your chicken and veggies. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully melted.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the skillet from the heat once the cheese is melted. You can serve this cheesy delight hot, either on its own or with hoagie rolls or over rice for a complete meal. Enjoy your hearty, cheesy chicken cheesesteak skillet!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Skillet?
Yes, you can, but make sure to fully thaw it before cooking! Thaw frozen chicken in the fridge overnight or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Pat it dry with paper towels to prevent excess moisture when cooking.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stove, stirring occasionally for even heating. You might want to add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist!
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Absolutely! To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or even a dash of hot sauce while cooking the chicken or veggies. Adjust based on your spice preference!
What Can I Substitute for the Cheese?
If you want a dairy-free option, try using plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. For a different taste, you can also use cheddar or a spicy pepper jack cheese!
