These Chicken Cheese Steak Sandwiches are so tasty and easy to make! Tender chicken, gooey cheese, and colorful peppers come together in a warm, soft bun. Perfect for lunch or dinner!
You know it’s a good day when chicken and cheese team up! I love to add some crunchy lettuce for a little extra zing. Your taste buds will thank you for this delicious combo! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Thinly sliced chicken breast is great for this recipe, but if you’re looking for a quicker option, pre-cooked chicken or even rotisserie chicken can work well. Just make sure to adjust cooking time if using pre-cooked chicken.
Onion and Bell Pepper: The sweet flavor of onions pairs perfectly with bell peppers. You can switch the bell pepper for any preferred color—red, yellow, or even a spicy variety like jalapeño if you want some heat. Onion can be substituted with shallots for a milder taste.
Cheese: Provolone is my favorite for its melting quality, but feel free to use mozzarella or an Italian blend. If you’re after a sharper flavor, try cheddar or gouda. Dairy-free cheese options are now widely available as well.
Hoagie Rolls: Any sturdy roll will do, but if you want a lower-carb option, use lettuce wraps instead. Just keep in mind that it will alter the texture of your sandwich.
How Do You Sauté Vegetables Perfectly?
Sautéing veggies is a key step, and it’s all about low and slow. This way, they become tender and full of flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a hot skillet and add oil to prevent sticking.
- Add onions first since they take longer to soften, cooking for about 3 minutes before adding the bell peppers.
- Sauté for a total of 5-7 minutes over medium heat until they are tender and lightly caramelized.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan, as this can lead to steaming instead of sautéing.
How to Make Chicken Cheese Steak Sandwiches
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 pound chicken breast, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced (green or your choice of color)
- 2 cups shredded provolone cheese (or your preferred cheese)
For the Sandwiches:
- 4 hoagie rolls
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: Hot sauce for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare and cook. In no time at all, you’ll have delicious Chicken Cheese Steak Sandwiches ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and bell peppers to the skillet. Sauté them until they become tender and slightly caramelized, which will take about 5-7 minutes. Once they’re ready, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In the same skillet, add the sliced chicken breast. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes or until it’s fully cooked and no longer pink in the middle. This step makes sure your chicken is flavorful and juicy!
3. Combine and Heat:
Now, return the sautéed onions and bell peppers back to the skillet with the cooked chicken. Stir everything together and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through. This will meld all those delicious flavors!
4. Prepare for Baking:
While everything is cooking, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). After that, split the hoagie rolls lengthwise, but don’t cut them all the way through. Place the rolls on a baking sheet, ready for the delicious filling!
5. Assemble the Sandwiches:
Evenly divide the chicken and vegetable mixture among the hoagie rolls, giving each one a generous helping. Then, top each sandwich with a sprinkle of the shredded provolone cheese. Don’t be shy with the cheese—it makes everything better!
6. Bake and Serve:
Pop the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. When they’re ready, carefully remove the sandwiches from the oven. Serve them hot, and if you like a little extra kick, drizzle some hot sauce on top. Enjoy your tasty Chicken Cheese Steak Sandwiches!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken works well. Just shred or chop it and skip the initial cooking step. Heat it through in the skillet with the veggies to blend the flavors before assembling the sandwiches.
What Cheese Can I Substitute for Provolone?
If provolone isn’t your favorite, you can use mozzarella, cheddar, or even Swiss cheese instead. Each will give a slightly different flavor but will still melt beautifully on your sandwiches.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through, which helps keep the bread crispy.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Filling?
Yes, feel free to add other veggies like mushrooms, jalapeños, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrients. Just make sure to sauté them with the onions and bell peppers until they’re tender!
