This Easy Cheesy Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet is a delicious one-pan meal! Tender chicken, melted cheese, and colorful veggies come together for a tasty dinner that’s ready in no time.
What I love most is how easy it is to whip up! Just cook everything in the same skillet, and you’ll have a warm meal waiting for you. Plus, who can resist gooey cheese? 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this dish because they cook quickly and are easy to slice. If you prefer, you can use rotisserie chicken for extra convenience or substitute shrimp or beef strips for a different flavor.
Bell Peppers: Red and green bell peppers add sweetness and crunch. Feel free to mix it up with yellow or orange peppers! If you don’t have any fresh, frozen bell peppers work too. Just cook them until they’re tender.
Onion: A medium onion provides great flavor to the dish. Yellow onions are my go-to, but you could use sweet onions or even red onions for a milder taste. If you’re in a pinch, onion powder can substitute, but the texture won’t be the same.
Cheese: Provolone or mozzarella makes this dish extra cheesy and gooey. Cheddar is a good substitution for a stronger flavor, while Pepper Jack adds a spicy kick if you’re feeling adventurous.
How Do I Get the Chicken Cooked Just Right?
Cooking the chicken properly is crucial for this dish. The key is to slice it thin so it cooks quickly and evenly. Here’s how:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken. This helps sear the meat and lock in juices.
- Cook the chicken in a single layer if possible. If you’re making a big batch, do it in batches to avoid steaming.
- Stir occasionally, but let it sit a bit to brown for flavor. Check for no pink inside once done.
By following these steps, you’ll get delicious, perfectly cooked chicken every time!
Easy Cheesy Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- 1 cup shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking, so you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in about 25 minutes! Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. This step is crucial as it prepares the skillet for cooking your chicken evenly.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Next, add the thinly sliced chicken to the skillet. Sprinkle it with smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and oregano. Cook the chicken, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes until it’s cooked through and lightly browned. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, you can add a little more oil if necessary. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Sauté them over medium heat until they’re softened and slightly caramelized, which should take about 5-6 minutes. In the last minute, add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
4. Combine Chicken and Veggies:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sautéed peppers and onions. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
5. Add the Cheese:
Now it’s the best part—sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the chicken and veggie mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid or some foil and let it sit for about 2-3 minutes so the cheese can melt into gooey perfection!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the cheese is nice and melted, take the skillet off the heat. Serve your cheesy chicken cheesesteak hot! It’s great on its own for a low-carb option or can be enjoyed with toasted hoagie rolls, rice, or pasta for a more filling meal.
Enjoy your meal filled with cheesy goodness and colorful veggies—it’s a real treat!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Shredded or diced leftover chicken works great in this skillet. Simply reduce the cooking time for the chicken and add it to the skillet with the vegetables to heat through.
How Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
To make a dairy-free version, skip the cheese and try using dairy-free cheese alternatives. You can also add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy!
What Veggies Can I Add or Substitute?
You can customize the veggies to your liking! Mushrooms, zucchini, or even spinach are great additions. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through. You may need to add a dash of water to prevent sticking.
