This tasty Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet is a quick and fun dish to whip up! With juicy chicken, colorful peppers, and melted cheese, it’s a crowd-pleaser that comes together in one pan.
I’ve enjoyed making this meal on busy nights. It’s like a cheesesteak but without the mess. Just serve it over rice or in a bun, and you’ve got a delicious dinner in a flash!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe. If you’re looking for a substitute, shredded rotisserie chicken works well and cuts down cooking time. You could also use turkey breast for a leaner option.
Pepper Variations: While green and red bell peppers add sweetness, feel free to mix in yellow or orange bell peppers for different flavors. If you need a low-carb option, zucchini strips or mushrooms could also work.
Cheese: I love mozzarella for its melty goodness, but provolone gives it that classic cheesesteak flavor. Feel free to try Swiss cheese or even a spicy pepper jack for a kick!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Cooked Perfectly Without Drying It Out?
Cooking chicken to perfection can be tricky. Here’s a simple guide to help you avoid dryness:
- Slice the chicken thinly so it cooks fast and stays tender. Think chicken cutlets!
- Cook over medium-high heat, which helps to sear the chicken quickly while keeping it juicy.
- Always check for doneness with a meat thermometer. It should reach an internal temp of 165°F (75°C).
- If unsure, cut into a piece to check for pinkness in the middle; if it’s still pink, let it cook a bit longer.
Easy Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 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 as an alternative)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to cook, totaling around 25-30 minutes. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Chicken:
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced chicken to the hot skillet. Season with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for approximately 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly browned.
2. Add the Veggies:
Next, add the onions and both bell peppers to the skillet. Stir everything together and continue to cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still have some crunch. This adds great flavor and color to the dish!
3. Melt the Cheese:
Now it’s time to add some cheesy goodness! Lower the heat to low and evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid or sheet of foil and let the cheese melt for about 2-3 minutes until it’s nice and bubbly.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the cheese is melted, remove the skillet from heat. You can serve the chicken cheesesteak skillet as is, or for a heartier meal, spoon it onto toasted sandwich rolls. Either way, it’s a flavorful and filling dish that everyone will love!
Enjoy your quick and easy Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet! It’s a great one-pan meal for busy days!
FAQ for Easy Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet
Can I Use Leftover Chicken in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover cooked chicken works wonderfully. Just shred or chop it, then add it during the step where you add the vegetables. You’ll only need to heat it through, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
What Other Veggies Can I Add?
You can get creative! Sliced mushrooms, zucchini, or even spinach would make tasty additions. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed, so everything stays tender yet crisp.
How Should I Store Any Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it up gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Definitely! Add some sliced jalapeños, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or even a dash of hot sauce when seasoning the chicken for extra heat. Adjust to your spice preference!
