These Chicken Cheese Steak Sandwiches are a cheesy delight! Juicy chicken, melted cheese, and flavorful veggies come together in a soft hoagie roll. Yum!
Honestly, who can resist a sandwich oozing with gooey cheese? I love to pair mine with some crunchy chips on the side. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. However, you can also use chicken thighs for a juicier option, or even shredded rotisserie chicken for quick prep!
Onion: Yellow onions work great for sweetness, but you can substitute with red onions for a sharper taste or sweet onions if you prefer a milder flavor.
Bell Pepper: Green bell pepper adds freshness and a slight bitterness. If you want a sweeter alternative, use red or yellow bell peppers instead.
Worcestershire Sauce: This ingredient adds depth. If you don’t have it, soy sauce or a dash of vinegar can work as a substitute, but the flavor will differ slightly.
Cheese: Provolone is a classic choice for these sandwiches. You can swap it for mozzarella, American cheese, or even pepper jack if you like a little spice.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked Without Drying It Out?
Cooking the chicken correctly is vital for a juicy sandwich. Here are some tips:
- Begin with thin slices of chicken to ensure they cook quickly and evenly.
- Preheat your skillet so the chicken gets a nice sear—this locks in moisture.
- Cook until just browned and no longer pink inside, about 5-7 minutes. Overcooking can lead to dryness.
What’s the Best Way to Sauté Vegetables for Maximum Flavor?
Sautéing vegetables helps develop their natural sugars. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use medium heat and make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This ensures they caramelize rather than steam.
- Add a pinch of salt while sautéing; it helps draw out moisture and intensifies flavor.
- Cook until they’re soft and have a bit of color, about 6-8 minutes. Stir occasionally for even cooking.
How to Make Chicken Cheese Steak Sandwiches
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Vegetables:
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
For the Sandwiches:
- 4 hoagie rolls
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese (or cheese of your choice)
- Optional: diced tomatoes or hot sauce for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need about 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by taking your thinly sliced chicken breasts and placing them in a mixing bowl. Add the Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well to ensure the chicken is evenly seasoned. Set this aside for a moment while you heat up your skillet.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and fully cooked. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a plate to keep warm.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
Using the same skillet, add the sliced onion and green bell pepper. Sauté these for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and slightly caramelized. This will add great flavor to your sandwich!
4. Combine Ingredients:
Now it’s time to bring the chicken back into the mix! Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Stir everything together and let it warm up for another 2-3 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together deliciously.
5. Assemble the Sandwiches:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take each hoagie roll and slice it down the middle, but don’t cut all the way through—just enough to create a pocket for the filling. Place your hoagie rolls on a baking sheet.
6. Add Cheese:
Now, spoon the chicken and vegetable mixture evenly into each hoagie roll. Top it off with a generous amount of shredded provolone cheese, or your favorite cheese.
7. Melt the Cheese:
Place the baking sheet with your sandwiches in the preheated oven. Bake for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is nicely melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it—no one likes burnt cheese!
8. Serve:
Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool slightly. If you want, you can add diced tomatoes or hot sauce on top for an extra kick. Enjoy your homemade Chicken Cheese Steak Sandwiches!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While provolone is a classic choice, you can use other cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or even pepper jack for a bit of spice. Just keep in mind that different cheeses may melt in different ways, so adjust your baking time if necessary!
Can I Prep the Ingredients Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and vegetables ahead of time. Marinate the chicken in the seasoning mixture and slice the vegetables the night before, then refrigerate them. Just make sure to cook them the day you plan to serve the sandwiches to keep everything fresh and tasty!
How to Store Leftover Sandwiches
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, you can use the oven or a skillet—just be sure to cover them with foil to keep the bread from getting too hard. Bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 10-15 minutes.
Can I Make This Recipe with Other Proteins?
Yes! Feel free to substitute chicken with sliced beef, turkey, or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian version. Adjust the cooking time according to the protein you’re using, as they may vary in how quickly they cook through.
