This Easy Cheesy Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet is a one-pan wonder that’ll make your taste buds dance! Juicy chicken, melty cheese, and colorful peppers come together quickly for a tasty meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Thinly sliced chicken breasts are the heart of this dish. If you’re in a hurry, you can use rotisserie chicken for even quicker prep. Just shred it and toss it in!
Bell Peppers: I love using red and green bell peppers for color and sweetness. You could try using yellow or orange peppers for a sweeter flavor or even add some poblano peppers for a mild heat.
Onion: A large onion adds great flavor. Sweet onions or even shallots can work well here if you want a milder taste. Red onions would also add a lovely color.
Cheese: Mozzarella is my go-to for its meltiness! Provolone is another great choice that brings a nice flavor to the dish. If you’re dairy-free, try a plant-based cheese that melts well.
How Can I Ensure the Chicken Is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking the chicken just right is key to a delicious skillet. Here are my tips:
- Slicing the chicken thinly helps it cook quickly and evenly. Make sure to cut against the grain for tenderness.
- Cook on medium-high heat and give it room in the pan to sear. Avoid overcrowding; cook in batches if necessary.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
What’s the Best Way to Cut and Sauté the Veggies?
To get the best texture and flavor from your veggies, follow these tips:
- Thinly slice the onions and peppers so they cook evenly and quickly.
- Start with the onions, allowing them to get sweet and caramelized before adding the bell peppers.
- Stir occasionally, and don’t rush—they need enough time to soften and become tasty!
Enjoy creating this cheesy, colorful skillet meal that’s sure to please the whole family!
Easy Cheesy Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or provolone cheese)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking time, making it a quick 25-minute dinner option. Perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something hearty and satisfying without spending all evening in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Skillet:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Let the oil warm up; this will help get your chicken nice and crispy!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Add the thinly sliced chicken to the skillet. Sprinkle it with the garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together and cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Look for it to be browned and cooked through—no more pink in the center!
3. Add the Veggies:
Now it’s time to add the flavor! Toss in the sliced onions and both bell peppers. Stir well to combine everything, and let the vegetables cook until they’re tender and starting to caramelize, about 5-7 minutes. This is when you’ll smell all those yummy flavors mixing together!
4. Melt the Cheese:
Reduce the heat to low and sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the chicken and veggies in the skillet. Cover the skillet with a lid for about 2-3 minutes to let the cheese melt beautifully. You want it to be nice and gooey!
5. Serve It Up:
Once the cheese is melted, remove the skillet from heat. It’s ready to be served! Scoop the cheesy chicken and veggies onto plates, or enjoy them stuffed in a sandwich. Either way, you’re in for a treat!
Enjoy this flavorful, easy skillet meal that delivers tender chicken, sautéed peppers, onions, and melty cheese in every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover cooked chicken works great in this skillet. Just skip the initial cooking step and add the precooked chicken when you toss in the vegetables. Cook until everything is heated through and the cheese is melted.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you like a kick, try adding sliced jalapeños or a dash of crushed red pepper flakes when cooking the chicken. You can also use a spicy cheese blend like pepper jack for added heat.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and veggies ahead of time. Simply sauté them and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat in a skillet, add the cheese, and melt it down for a quick meal!
