Ever wondered how to recreate the iconic flavors of a classic sandwich with a lighter twist? This Philly chicken cheesesteak recipe combines the best of both worlds—savory chicken, melty provolone cheese, and a medley of bell peppers and onions—all nestled in a sturdy Sara Lee Artisan Sausage Roll. It’s a modern take on a beloved favorite, perfect for home cooks looking to impress.
Rooted in the rich culinary culture of Philadelphia, this dish offers a versatile and customizable experience. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, you’ll appreciate the 30-minute prep time and the accessibility of ingredients. It’s a meal that brings people together, offering a taste of tradition with a fresh perspective.
Key Takeaways
- Blend traditional flavors with chicken for a lighter twist.
- Quick and easy to prepare in just 30 minutes.
- Rooted in Philadelphia’s iconic sandwich culture.
- Customizable to suit your taste preferences.
- Uses Sara Lee Artisan Sausage Rolls for a sturdy base.
Introduction to Philly Chicken Cheesesteak
Discover how a simple ingredient swap can transform a traditional dish. The chicken philly cheesesteak originated as a lighter alternative to the classic beef version. It quickly gained popularity for its healthier profile and faster cooking time, making it a favorite for home cooks.
This dish retains the signature flavors of the original, including caramelized veggies and melty cheese. Whether you’re using a large skillet or a Blackstone griddle, the result is equally delicious. The stovetop method is ideal for quick weeknight meals, while the griddle offers a smoky, restaurant-style finish.
One of the reasons this version has risen in popularity is its adaptability. Home cooks appreciate the ease of preparation and the ability to customize ingredients. Regional variations in bread choices also add a unique twist, making it a versatile dish nationwide.
From its humble beginnings to its current status as a weeknight staple, the philly cheesesteak has evolved while staying true to its roots. Whether you’re a fan of the classic or looking for a healthier option, this dish delivers on flavor and convenience.
Why You’ll Love This Philly Chicken Cheesesteak Recipe
Busy weeknights call for meals that are fast, delicious, and satisfying—this one ticks all the boxes. With just 30 minutes of prep time, this recipe is perfect for those hectic evenings when you need something quick yet flavorful.
At 571 calories per serving, it’s a healthier alternative to traditional steak versions. Packed with 44g of protein, it keeps you full without the extra fat. Plus, it uses common pantry spices like garlic powder and Italian seasoning, so you likely have everything you need already.
One of the best things about this dish is its adaptability. You can adjust the spice level with jalapeños or hot sauce, making it as mild or fiery as you like. It’s also a hit with picky eaters, thanks to its family-friendly format.
For even more convenience, you can prep the chicken ahead of time and freeze it. This makes future meals even faster, giving you more time to relax. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, this recipe delivers on flavor and ease.
- Ready in just 30 minutes—ideal for busy schedules.
- Lower fat content compared to traditional steak versions.
- Customizable spice levels to suit your taste.
- Family-friendly and freezer-friendly for added convenience.
Ingredients for Philly Chicken Cheesesteak
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to crafting a delicious and satisfying meal. For this dish, you’ll need a mix of proteins, fresh veggies, and seasonings to bring out the best flavors. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.
Main Ingredients
The foundation of this sandwich relies on a few key components. Start with boneless chicken breasts or thighs, trimmed of excess fat for a leaner option. For the cheese, slices of provolone cheese add a creamy, melty texture, though Cheez Whiz can be used for a more traditional touch. Finally, sturdy hoagie rolls, like Sara Lee Artisan Sausage Rolls, ensure your sandwich holds together perfectly.
- Boneless chicken breasts or thighs (8 oz, trimmed of fat)
- Provolone cheese slices (or Cheez Whiz)
- Sara Lee Artisan Sausage Rolls (or hoagie alternatives)
Vegetables and Seasonings
Fresh vegetables and seasonings add depth and flavor to your dish. Use a mix of green and red bell peppers along with yellow onions for a sweet and savory balance. Season with garlic powder and Italian seasoning for an aromatic kick. For cooking, avocado oil is ideal due to its high smoke point, ensuring a perfect sear.
- Green and red bell peppers (½ each)
- ½ yellow onion
- Garlic powder and Italian seasoning blend
- Avocado oil for searing
How to Prepare the Chicken
The key to a flavorful dish starts with how you handle the main ingredient. Begin by trimming any excess fat from the breasts or thighs. This ensures a leaner and more even cook. For easier slicing, freeze the meat for 15-30 minutes. This step helps achieve those perfect, thin cuts.
Once thawed, season the meat generously. Use a blend of salt, pepper, and ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder for depth of flavor. Let it rest at room temperature for even cooking. This small step makes a big difference in the final texture.
When slicing, always cut against the grain. This technique ensures tender, bite-sized strips that are easy to eat. Pre-freezing the meat helps maintain control while slicing, resulting in uniform pieces. These tips guarantee a dish that’s both delicious and visually appealing.
- Trim excess fat for a leaner cook.
- Season with garlic powder and Italian seasoning.
- Rest at room temperature for even cooking.
- Slice against the grain for tender strips.
- Pre-freeze for perfect thin cuts.
Sautéing the Vegetables
Mastering the art of sautéing vegetables is essential for achieving the perfect balance of flavor and texture. Start by thinly slicing your bell peppers and onions. This ensures they cook evenly and quickly, retaining their natural sweetness.
Heat your skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of avocado oil. This oil’s high smoke point is perfect for achieving a smoky, charred finish. Add the vegetables and let them cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
For added depth, sprinkle in the remaining garlic powder and Italian seasoning. These spices enhance the natural flavors of the vegetables, giving them a restaurant-quality char. Be careful not to overcook—crisp-tender is the goal.
Finally, deglaze the pan with any leftover chicken juices. This step adds an extra layer of flavor, tying the dish together beautifully. With these tips, your sautéed vegetables will be the star of the meal.
- Thinly slice peppers and onions for quick, even cooking.
- Use avocado oil for a smoky, charred finish.
- Add garlic powder and Italian seasoning for enhanced flavor.
- Achieve a crisp-tender texture without overcooking.
- Deglaze the pan with chicken juices for added depth.
Assembling the Philly Chicken Cheesesteak
Assembling the perfect sandwich is all about layering flavors and textures for a satisfying bite. Start by warming your hoagie rolls in the microwave for 20 seconds. This step ensures they’re pliable and won’t tear during assembly.
Next, evenly layer the chicken and veggie mixture across the bread. For the best results, use a spatula to transfer the mixture directly from the skillet. This helps retain all the delicious juices and flavors.
To top it off, place slices of provolone cheese directly on the hot skillet mixture. Let it melt slightly before transferring it to the sandwich. This ensures the cheese is perfectly gooey and evenly distributed.
Finally, press the sandwich lightly to ensure structural integrity. This step also helps meld all the ingredients together, creating a cohesive and delicious bite every time.
- Warm rolls to prevent tearing during assembly.
- Layer chicken and veggie mix evenly across the bread.
- Melt provolone directly on the skillet mixture.
- Use a spatula to transfer without losing cheese.
- Press the sandwich lightly for structural integrity.
Tips for the Perfect Philly Chicken Cheesesteak
Crafting the perfect sandwich starts with the right foundation and technique. From selecting the best bread to mastering the art of melting cheese, these tips will help you elevate your dish to the next level.
Choosing the Right Bread
The foundation of any great sandwich is the bread. Amoroso rolls are a classic choice, known for their sturdiness and ability to hold up against juicy fillings. If unavailable, Sara Lee Artisan Sausage Rolls are a reliable alternative.
To avoid soggy buns, warm your rolls in the microwave for 20 seconds before assembling. This step ensures they stay soft yet firm. For added crunch, lightly toast the seams without drying them out.
Melting the Cheese
The type of cheese you use can make or break your sandwich. Provolone offers a creamy, melty texture, while Cheez Whiz provides a more traditional, gooey consistency. Both options work well, so choose based on your preference.
To melt the cheese evenly, place it directly on the hot meat and veggie mixture in the skillet. Cover the skillet with a lid for a few seconds to trap the heat and speed up the process. For the best results, layer the cheese under the meat to ensure it’s evenly distributed.
Variations and Additions
Looking to spice up your meal? Try these creative twists on a classic favorite. Whether you’re craving heat, umami, or a time-saving shortcut, these variations let you customize your dish to suit your taste.
For a spicy kick, add pickled jalapeños or banana peppers. These ingredients bring a tangy heat that elevates the overall flavor. If you’re a fan of earthy notes, toss in sautéed mushrooms for a rich, umami boost.
Short on time? Swap fresh meat for rotisserie chicken. This hack cuts prep time while still delivering a delicious result. For dietary preferences, consider gluten-free roll alternatives or vegan cheese substitutions. These swaps ensure everyone can enjoy the dish.
- Spicy version with pickled jalapeños or banana peppers.
- Mushroom-swiss twist for a rich, umami flavor.
- Rotisserie chicken as a time-saving shortcut.
- Gluten-free roll alternatives for dietary needs.
- Vegan cheese substitutions for plant-based options.
With these simple changes, you can transform your meal into something new and exciting. Experiment with different ingredients to find your perfect combination.
Serving Suggestions
Elevate your meal with the perfect pairings for your sandwich. Whether you’re hosting a game-day gathering or enjoying a family dinner, these serving ideas will take your dish to the next level.
For classic sides, try crispy air-fryer fries or tangy dill pickles. These options add a satisfying crunch and balance the richness of your meal. If you’re looking for lighter choices, a fresh garden salad or veggie sticks are excellent alternatives.
Beer lovers will appreciate pairing their sandwich with an IPA or lager. These brews complement the savory flavors perfectly. For kid-friendly options, serve smaller portions with a side of fruit or yogurt.
Save time with make-ahead strategies. Prep your sides the night before and store them in airtight containers. This ensures a stress-free experience when hosting parties or busy gatherings.
- Classic sides: crispy fries, dill pickles
- Light options: garden salad, veggie sticks
- Beer pairings: IPA or lager
- Kid-friendly serving tips: smaller portions with fruit or yogurt
- Make-ahead strategies for parties
With these simple additions, you can transform your meal into a feast. Experiment with different ingredients and find your favorite combinations.
Conclusion
Wrap up your meal prep with a dish that’s both quick and crowd-pleasing. The success of this chicken philly lies in two key factors: choosing the right bread and mastering the cheese melt. These elements ensure every bite is as satisfying as the last.
Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste. Add your favorite veggies, experiment with different cheeses, or even try a spicy twist. The possibilities are endless, making it a versatile option for any occasion.
Share your creations on social media and tag @aflavorjournal. We’d love to see how you’ve made this dish your own. For more inspiration, check out related recipes like Philly sliders or the classic beef version.
With its 30-minute prep time and freezer-friendly nature, this cheesesteak is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. It’s a meal that brings people together, offering a burst of flavor in every bite.