This Easy Cheesy Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet is packed with tender chicken, colorful peppers, and melted cheese. It’s a one-pan meal that’s quick to whip up, making weeknight dinners a breeze!
I love how all the flavors mix together, creating a hearty dish that’s so comforting. Plus, you can serve it over rice or in a bun—either way, it’s delicious! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish due to their quick cooking time. You can swap with cooked rotisserie chicken for even faster prep or use turkey if you prefer.
Peppers: Red and green bell peppers add color and sweetness. If you don’t have these, other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or even frozen stir-fry mixes can work well.
Cheese: I love mozzarella for its melty goodness! Provolone or cheddar are tasty alternatives. For a dairy-free option, try vegan cheese that melts well.
Spices: Smoked paprika gives a nice smoky flavor, but regular paprika or a dash of chili powder can be good substitutes. Adjust according to your taste!
What’s the Best Way to Ensure Flavor in Each Bite?
Seasoning the chicken properly is crucial for flavor. Mix together your garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and a little salt and pepper. Ensure each piece of chicken is coated evenly before cooking.
- Cook the chicken in batches if needed, making sure it gets a good sear.
- When adding the onions and peppers, let them cook until caramelized; this brings out their natural sweetness.
- Cover the skillet while melting the cheese to create that gooey effect—this step is key!
Go ahead, enjoy this comforting dish! Serve it with hoagie rolls or over rice to soak up all the flavors!
Easy Cheesy Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Optional: hoagie rolls or cooked rice for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook, so you’ll be enjoying this delightful meal in about 30 minutes total. Perfect for those busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Skillet:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Make sure the oil is nice and hot before adding your ingredients—it helps to sear the chicken perfectly!
2. Season the Chicken:
In a bowl, season your thinly sliced chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss it well so each piece is coated with those yummy spices!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet. Cook it for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s cooked through and just slightly browned. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the sliced onions and bell peppers. Sauté these colorful veggies for about 6-8 minutes until they get tender and start to caramelize a bit. This step really enhances their flavor!
5. Combine Everything:
Now, return the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the onions and peppers. Stir everything together until heated through. It’s starting to smell amazing!
6. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes. This will help the cheese melt beautifully!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your cheesy chicken skillet hot! You can either enjoy it as is, or stuff it into hoagie rolls for a delicious sandwich, or serve it over cooked rice for a hearty meal. Enjoy your comforting, cheesy creation!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s important to thaw it completely prior to cooking. The best way to do this is to place it in the fridge overnight. If you’re short on time, you can also use the cold water method: seal the chicken in a plastic bag and submerge it in cold water until thawed.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauté the vegetables in advance. Just keep them separate and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to eat, just heat everything up in a skillet until warmed through, then add the cheese and melt it as directed.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a skillet on low heat or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming.
What Variations Can I Try?
Feel free to get creative with this dish! You can add sautéed mushrooms, swap in different cheeses like provolone or pepper jack, or even add spices like cayenne for some heat. You can also replace the chicken with leftover roasted veggies for a vegetarian option!
