Chicken Philly Cheesesteak

A Chicken Philly Cheesesteak is a mouthwatering twist on the classic Philly cheesesteak, featuring tender chicken pieces instead of beef. Sautéed bell peppers and onions add a burst of color and flavor, while the queso dip and mozzarella cheese create a creamy, melty finish that ties everything together.

The hoagie bun holds it all perfectly, making every bite a combination of juicy chicken, savory veggies, and gooey cheese. This dish is a fantastic option for a cozy family dinner or a weekend lunch when you want to indulge in a hearty, satisfying meal. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite toppings, so feel free to get creative!

Full Recipe:

1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (weighed after trimming)

2 Tablespoons olive oil (divided)
1 teaspoon lemon pepper
2 teaspoons garlic salt

2 teaspoons onion powder
1 small green bell pepper (about 1/2 cup, sliced)
1 small red bell pepper (about 1/2 cup, sliced)

1/2 cup sliced onion
1/2 cup queso blanco dip
3 hoagie buns

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Directions:

Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C).

If using thick chicken breasts, butterfly each one or pound gently with a meat mallet to even out the thickness.
In a small bowl, mix together half of the olive oil, lemon pepper, garlic salt, and onion powder. Spread the mixture all over the chicken on both sides.
Heat the remaining olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until nicely browned and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).

Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside to rest. Do not clean out the skillet.
Add the bell peppers and onion to the skillet and cook, turning occasionally, until tender (about 3-5 minutes).
Meanwhile, chop the chicken into bite-sized chunks or slices. Add the chicken back to the skillet with the vegetables and toss to combine.

Add the queso dip and stir to coat, heating through. Turn off the skillet.
Place the hoagie buns in a baking pan and open them up. Divide the chicken mixture evenly among all the sandwich buns. Top each sandwich with mozzarella cheese.
Place the baking pan into the preheated oven and toast the sandwiches for 5 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 670 kcal | Servings: 3 servings

History and Origin:

The original Philly Cheesesteak sandwich originated in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in the early 20th century. Traditionally, it’s made with thinly sliced beefsteak, onions, and melted cheese on a hoagie roll. The creation is often credited to Pat and Harry Olivieri, who started selling this sandwich from their hot dog stand, leading to the establishment of the famous Pat’s King of Steaks.

While the original version uses beef, the Chicken Philly Cheesesteak is a modern twist that swaps beef for chicken, offering a lighter but equally flavorful option. This variation has become popular due to its healthier profile and the versatility of chicken, which absorbs flavors well.

Key Ingredients:

Chicken Breast: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced. Marinating the chicken in a bit of olive oil, garlic, and spices can enhance its flavor.
Vegetables: Green bell peppers and onions are classic, but you can also add red bell peppers, mushrooms, or even jalapeños for extra heat.
Cheese: Provolone is the most commonly used cheese for Chicken Philly Cheesesteaks, thanks to its mild flavor and meltability. However, you can also use American cheese, mozzarella, or even cheese sauce for a different twist.

Hoagie Rolls: These soft and slightly chewy rolls are perfect for holding the filling. Toasting the rolls gives them a bit more structure and a nice crunch.

Variations:

Spicy Chicken Philly: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture for a spicy kick.
Cheesy Chicken Philly: If you’re a cheese lover, add more cheese or even a cheese sauce for an extra indulgent version.

Garlic Butter Chicken Philly: Cook the chicken and vegetables in garlic butter for a rich, savory flavor.
Low-Carb Option: Serve the chicken and vegetable mixture over a bed of lettuce or in a low-carb wrap instead of a hoagie roll.

Cooking Tips:

Slicing Chicken: To make thin slices, partially freeze the chicken breast for about 30 minutes before slicing. This firms it up and makes it easier to cut thinly.

Cooking Temperature: Cook the chicken over medium-high heat to ensure a good sear without overcooking it.
Melt the Cheese: For the perfect melt, cover the pan with a lid or foil after adding the cheese to help it melt evenly over the chicken and veggies.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve the Chicken Philly Cheesesteak with a side of French fries, sweet potato fries, or a simple green salad.

Offer a variety of condiments such as ketchup, mayonnaise, hot sauce, or mustard on the side.
For a complete Philly experience, pair it with a root beer or a classic soda.

Nutritional Information:

The Chicken Philly Cheesesteak is a protein-rich meal, with chicken providing lean protein and the veggies adding fiber and vitamins. To make it a bit healthier, you can use whole-wheat hoagie rolls, reduce the amount of cheese, or load up on more vegetables.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
Customizable: Easy to adapt to different tastes and dietary preferences.
Comfort Food: It offers a comforting, cheesy, and savory experience that’s satisfying and hearty.

Historical Context and Popularity:

The Chicken Philly Cheesesteak has gained popularity over the years as people began seeking alternatives to the traditional beef version. This adaptation became particularly popular in the 1980s and 1990s as more people were looking for lighter meal options without sacrificing flavor. Today, chicken versions of classic dishes are celebrated for their versatility and health benefits, making this sandwich a favorite in both restaurants and home kitchens.

Health Benefits and Modifications:

Lean Protein: Chicken breast is a lean source of protein, lower in fat compared to beef. This makes the Chicken Philly Cheesesteak a great option for those looking to maintain or lose weight while enjoying a hearty meal.
Vegetable Boost: The addition of bell peppers and onions not only adds flavor and texture but also brings in essential nutrients like vitamins C and A, along with fiber. For a more nutrient-dense meal, you can add additional vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or broccoli.

Lower Calorie Option: To reduce the calorie content, opt for low-fat cheese or a smaller amount of cheese. You can also use whole-grain or low-carb wraps instead of traditional hoagie rolls.

How to Make it Kid-Friendly:

To make this dish more appealing to kids, you can make a few simple tweaks:

Mild Flavors: Use mild cheese like mozzarella or American cheese if your kids are not fans of strong flavors.

Fun Presentation: Serve the filling in smaller dinner rolls, making them mini Chicken Philly sliders. This can be a fun and manageable size for kids.
Serve with Dips: Kids love dipping, so serve the sandwich with a side of ketchup, ranch dressing, or a mild cheese sauce.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips:

Meal Prep: You can prepare the chicken and vegetable mixture ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave when you’re ready to serve.

Freezing: The cooked chicken and vegetable mixture can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Assembly: To prevent the hoagie rolls from becoming soggy, store the chicken mixture separately and assemble the sandwiches just before serving.

Perfect Pairings:

Sides: Classic pairings include French fries, onion rings, or coleslaw. For a healthier side, serve with a mixed green salad, roasted vegetables, or sweet potato fries.

Beverages: This sandwich pairs well with a variety of drinks. For a classic pairing, go with a cold soda or a root beer. For a more adult-friendly option, a light beer or a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the flavors well.
Desserts: To complete the meal, follow up with a simple dessert like brownies, cookies, or fruit salad.

Cooking Equipment and Techniques:

Cast Iron Skillet: Using a cast iron skillet can help achieve a nice sear on the chicken, adding a deeper flavor to the dish. If you don’t have a cast iron skillet, a non-stick pan works as well.

Mandoline Slicer: If you have a mandoline slicer, use it to quickly and evenly slice the vegetables. This ensures that they cook at the same rate and have a consistent texture.
Griddle Option: If you’re preparing sandwiches for a crowd, consider using a griddle to cook larger quantities of chicken and vegetables at once.

Regional Variations:

While the Chicken Philly Cheesesteak is a twist on the classic Philadelphia cheesesteak, various regions have put their own spin on it:

California Style: Includes avocado slices and sometimes a drizzle of ranch dressing.
Southern Style: May add a touch of barbecue sauce or spicy peppers for extra flavor.
Italian Twist: Incorporates marinara sauce and Italian seasoning, giving it a chicken Parmesan-like flavor profile.

Cultural Significance:

The Chicken Philly Cheesesteak has become a versatile and beloved dish in American cuisine. It captures the spirit of comfort food while accommodating various dietary needs and preferences. This sandwich not only brings the flavors of Philadelphia to your table but also shows how a classic dish can be adapted to suit different tastes and lifestyles.

Conclusion:

The Chicken Philly Cheesesteak is a delicious and versatile twist on the classic Philly cheesesteak, offering a lighter but equally flavorful option. With its lean protein, customizable ingredients, and rich history, this sandwich appeals to a wide range of tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a satisfying comfort food, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.