If you are looking for a quick, flavorful, and comforting meal, this Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet Recipe is an absolute winner in my book. It brilliantly captures the essence of a classic cheesesteak but swaps out beef for tender, juicy chicken breasts, making it lighter without sacrificing any of the bold, savory goodness. Combining sautéed peppers and onions with Italian seasoning and a gooey layer of provolone cheese, this recipe delivers a rich medley of textures and flavors right from your stovetop to your dinner table in under 30 minutes. Trust me, it’s the kind of dish that feels both indulgent and homey, perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers where everyone wants something hearty and satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each item brings something special to the table—from the sweet crunch of the bell peppers and onions to the juicy savoriness of the chicken, all tied together with herbs and creamy provolone cheese, creating an irresistible dish.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided: Provides the perfect base for sautéing veggies and chicken without overpowering the flavors.
- 1 yellow onion, halved and thinly sliced: Adds sweetness and a tender bite that complements the peppers beautifully.
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced: Brings a vibrant color and sweet, crisp texture that elevates the dish.
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced: Offers a slight peppery note and balances the sweetness of the red pepper.
- 1 1/4 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced: The star protein that absorbs all the seasoning and stays juicy when cooked just right.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: Infuses the dish with aromatic herbs like oregano and basil for an Italian-inspired kick.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smoky warmth that deepens the overall flavor.
- Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning every stage and bringing out the natural flavors.
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese: Melts into a gooey, stretchy topping that perfectly finishes the skillet with creamy richness.
How to Make Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Veggies
Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Toss in your thinly sliced bell peppers and onions, along with a generous pinch of salt and black pepper. Sauté them slowly, allowing the vegetables to soften and develop a sweet caramelized flavor. This step is crucial since tender, flavorful veggies give the dish depth and balance that signature cheesesteak charm.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the now-empty skillet and spread it around to coat. Next, place the thinly sliced chicken breasts into the pan in a single layer and season with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Resist the urge to stir immediately—letting the chicken brown undisturbed for a few minutes creates a delicious sear that locks in the juices, boosting flavor and texture.
Step 3: Combine and Cheese It Up
Once the chicken is cooked through and beautifully browned, return the sautéed peppers and onions to the skillet, pouring in any flavorful juices left on the plate. Stir everything together so that the flavors meld perfectly. Then, sprinkle the shredded provolone cheese generously over the top—a final touch that transforms this from skillet to sensational comfort food.
Step 4: Melt the Cheese and Serve
Cover the skillet with a lid and allow the cheese to melt until it’s bubbly and irresistibly gooey. This moment is pure magic, where all the ingredients blend into a harmonious, cheesy delight. Serve it hot straight from the pan for a fuss-free experience bursting with authentic cheesesteak flavor in a lighter, chicken-based version.
How to Serve Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
You can keep things simple with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color and fresh flavor. For a little extra kick, add some thinly sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce. These garnishes enhance the overall presentation and taste, making every bite more exciting.
Side Dishes
This Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet Recipe stands beautifully on its own but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or classic crispy fries for a fun, casual meal. Mashed potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes also complement the rich, cheesy flavors, rounding out the dish into a hearty, satisfying dinner.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to switch things up, spoon the mixture into soft hoagie rolls or serve over toasted baguette slices for an open-faced sandwich twist. You can even scoop it over a bed of fluffy rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. These creative presentations make the dish versatile enough for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet Recipe should be placed in an airtight container and refrigerated within two hours of cooking. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it a great candidate for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
While the dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers by transferring them into a freezer-safe bag or container. Be sure to remove as much air as possible. Frozen portions can last up to 2 months, perfect for meal prepping or saving for a busy day when you need a comforting meal ready to go.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, covering the dish to retain moisture. If freezing, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Add a splash of water or broth if the mixture seems dry. Reheating this way keeps the chicken tender and the cheese melty, just like the first time.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add more fat and richness, making the dish even juicier and tender. Just be sure to thinly slice them to ensure quick and even cooking in the skillet.
Is provolone cheese necessary, or can I use other cheeses?
Provolone gives a lovely mild yet tangy melt, but you can certainly swap it for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even cheddar, depending on your preference. Just choose a cheese that melts well to keep that signature cheesy layer.
Can this recipe be made dairy-free?
Yes! You can omit the cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative that melts nicely. The flavors from the chicken and veggies will still shine through, creating a delicious dairy-free version.
How spicy is this Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet Recipe?
The recipe itself is mild, with the smoked paprika adding a subtle warmth rather than heat. If you prefer a spicier dish, feel free to add crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce to taste.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can slice the vegetables and chicken ahead of time, or even sauté the veggies earlier in the day and refrigerate them. When ready to cook, simply cook the chicken and assemble the skillet with the prepped ingredients for a quick, stress-free meal.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet Recipe is one of those meals that feels like a warm hug on a plate — packed with fresh ingredients, layered flavors, and that irresistible melted cheese finish. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining friends, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that comes together quickly without fuss. I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love with this simple yet deeply satisfying take on a classic favorite.
Print
Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet is a quick and flavorful one-pan meal featuring tender chicken breasts, sautéed bell peppers and onions, and melted provolone cheese. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, this recipe combines classic cheesesteak flavors with a healthy twist using lean chicken and fresh vegetables.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 yellow onion, halved and thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
Chicken and Seasonings
- 1 1/4 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Fresh ground black pepper, to taste
Other
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
Instructions
- Sauté the vegetables: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the sliced yellow onion, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and season generously with salt and pepper. Cook while stirring until the vegetables become very tender, then transfer them to a plate and set aside.
- Cook the chicken: Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet. Place the thinly sliced chicken breasts in a single layer and sprinkle with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let the chicken cook undisturbed for a couple of minutes to develop a browned crust, then stir and continue cooking until fully cooked through.
- Combine and top with cheese: Return the sautéed onions and peppers along with any collected juices from the plate back into the skillet with the cooked chicken. Stir everything together to combine evenly. Sprinkle the shredded provolone cheese over the top of the mixture.
- Melt the cheese: Cover the skillet with a lid and let it sit over medium-low heat until the provolone cheese melts completely. Once melted, remove from heat and serve immediately.
Notes
- For best results, slice the chicken thinly to ensure quick and even cooking.
- You can substitute provolone cheese with mozzarella or cheddar if preferred.
- Serve with a side of crusty bread or over cooked rice for a hearty meal.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and pepper.
- If you prefer spicier flavors, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the chicken.
