Easy Chicken Cheese Steak Recipe Ready in 30 Minutes
Growing up in Philadelphia, the cheesesteak was a family favorite. The smell of beef, cheese, and onions made my mouth water. As an adult, I missed that taste but wanted a healthier version.
That’s when I found the chicken cheese steak. It’s a tasty, protein-rich twist on the classic. You can make it any night of the week.
This chicken cheese steak recipe is quick and delicious, ready in just 30 minutes. No more long prep times or greasy meals. You get tender chicken, melted cheese, and sautéed veggies in a toasted hoagie roll. It’s a healthier Philly classic for busy nights or weekends.
Table of Contents
The Perfect Philadelphia-Inspired Chicken Cheese Steak
Philadelphia is famous for its cheesesteaks. This dish has won the hearts of many. The chicken cheese steak is a healthier twist, with lean chicken and tasty flavors.
History of the Classic Philly Twist
The chicken cheesesteak sandwich and cheese steak sandwich are now favorites. They offer a lower-fat option. This homemade version tastes like a restaurant’s, ready in just 15 minutes.
Why Choose Chicken Over Beef
- Chicken is leaner, with less fat and calories than beef.
- Chicken cheesesteak sandwiches are healthier, great for families and kids.
- Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for a nutritious twist on the philly cheesesteak.
This chicken cheesesteak sandwich has tender chicken, melted cheese, and sautéed veggies. It’s a tasty twist on a classic, ready in 30 minutes.
Essential Kitchen Tools and Equipment
To make the perfect grilled steak and cheese sandwich or steak and cheese sub, you need the right kitchen tools. Here are the key items for this recipe:
- A large skillet or griddle pan: A 14-inch non-stick skillet gives you enough room to cook without sticking.
- A sharp chef’s knife: A good chef’s knife is crucial for slicing chicken breasts or thighs thinly.
- A cutting board: A strong cutting board helps you prep your ingredients quickly.
- A spatula: Use a silicone spatula to break up ground chicken. A metal griddle spatula is better for slicing thin chicken breasts.
- A baking sheet: This sheet is great for warming the bread and melting the cheese.
- Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements of spices and seasonings are key to perfect flavor.
With these tools, you’re ready to make an authentic Philadelphia-inspired chicken cheese steak in your kitchen.
Tool | Purpose |
---|---|
Large Skillet or Griddle Pan | Provides ample cooking space and prevents sticking |
Sharp Chef’s Knife | Essential for thinly slicing chicken breasts or thighs |
Cutting Board | Allows for efficient ingredient preparation |
Spatula | Silicone for breaking up ground chicken, metal for slicing thin chicken |
Baking Sheet | Useful for warming the bread and melting the cheese |
Measuring Spoons | Ensures precise measurements of spices and seasonings |
With these tools, you’re ready to make an authentic Philadelphia-inspired chicken cheese steak in your kitchen.
Ingredients for the Ultimate Chicken Cheese Steak Recipe
To make the perfect chicken cheese steak, you need top-notch ingredients. You’ll want tender chicken, melty cheese, and tasty seasonings. Each part is crucial for that classic Philly taste.
Main Ingredients List
- 1.5 lbs of thinly sliced chicken breast
- 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
- 2 green bell peppers, thinly sliced
- 4 hoagie rolls
- 8 slices of provolone cheese
Seasonings and Spices
The secret to a great chicken cheese steak is the right mix of seasonings. This recipe uses:
- 2 tsp of garlic powder
- 2 tsp of Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp of salt
- 1/2 tsp of black pepper
Cheese Options
While provolone is traditional, you can try other cheeses for a unique taste. Some favorites include:
- Cooper sharp American cheese
- Mozzarella
- Cheese wiz
For a lighter version, add avocado, lettuce, and tomato. This makes a California-style chicken cheese steak.
With these ingredients and the right seasonings, you’re ready to make the ultimate chicken cheese steak. It will take you straight to Philadelphia.
Preparing Your Ingredients Like a Pro
Mastering the art of preparing your ingredients is key to making the perfect chicken cheesesteak. Start by slicing your chicken breasts against the grain into thin, even strips, about 1/4-inch thick. This ensures tender, bite-sized pieces that melt in your mouth.
Next, slice your onions and bell peppers into thin strips, about 1/4-inch wide. This helps them sauté quickly and evenly, adding a delightful crunch and flavor to your steak cheese melt. If you’re using whole chicken breasts, be prepared to chop them finely during cooking for a more authentic Philly-style sandwich.
To complete your prep, split your hoagie rolls lengthwise, keeping them connected on one side. This makes the perfect vessel for your chicken cheesesteak filling. For ground chicken, ensure it’s evenly distributed and ready to be transformed into a delicious, meaty topping.
By properly preparing your ingredients, you’re setting the stage for a chicken cheesesteak that’s bursting with flavor and texture in every bite. Let’s move on to the next step: Mastering the Art of Slicing Chicken.
Mastering the Art of Slicing Chicken
Creating the perfect chicken cheese steak recipe starts with slicing chicken right. The key is to get thin, tender slices. This requires good knife skills and knowing how to control the temperature. Here are some easy tips to help you slice chicken like a pro and make your easy chicken cheesesteak even better.
Best Cutting Techniques
Ground chicken is the best choice for this recipe because it’s easy to work with and has the right texture. If you prefer chicken breasts, go for thin-sliced or cutlet types. Freezing the chicken for about 20 minutes before cutting makes it easier to slice.
When cooking, use two metal grill spatulas to press down on the chicken. This helps chop or shred it into thin pieces as it cooks.
Temperature Tips for Easy Slicing
- Freeze the chicken for 20 minutes before slicing for a firmer texture that’s easier to work with.
- Cook the chicken over medium-high heat, using the spatula technique to chop it into thin pieces as it cooks.
- Let the cooked chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to make a chicken cheese steak recipe that’s full of flavor and texture. Every bite will be a delight.
Cooking the Perfect Vegetables
To make your grilled chicken cheesesteak or cheesy steak hero better, start with great veggies. The secret is to caramelize onions and peppers. This brings out their sweetness.
First, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a big skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions and peppers when the butter is ready. Cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring now and then, until they’re soft and sweet. Adding sautéed mushrooms can also add flavor and nutrients.
When the veggies are caramelized, take them out of the skillet. This lets you cook the chicken in the same pan. This way, the chicken absorbs the tasty flavors.
Mastering the Caramelization
Getting onions and peppers caramelized takes patience and careful heat control. Here are some tips for that perfect golden-brown look:
- Use a big skillet or sauté pan for even heat.
- Keep the heat at medium, adjusting as needed to avoid burning.
- Stir the veggies now and then to cook evenly and prevent sticking.
- Let them cook slowly, don’t rush it.
By following these tips, you’ll make a great veggie base for your grilled chicken cheesesteak or cheesy steak hero.
Success comes from taking your time to cook the veggies. This lets their natural flavors shine and enhance your dish.
Step-by-Step Chicken Cheese Steak Recipe
Making a tasty chicken cheese steak at home is simple. Just follow these easy steps to make a sandwich that tastes like it came from a restaurant. You’ll love the classic chicken cheese steak recipe or steak cheese toastie.
Cooking the Meat
Start by cooking the Tyson Red Label® Fully Cooked Unbreaded Fajita Seasoned Chicken Breast Strips. Heat 1 tablespoon of canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips and cook for 14-17 minutes at 350°F, stirring occasionally, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove the cooked chicken from the pan and set it aside.
Combining Ingredients
In the same skillet, sauté the 2 oz of bell peppers and onion mix until they’re softened, about 5 minutes. Return the cooked chicken to the pan and mix everything together. Top the chicken and vegetable mixture with 2 slices of white American cheese. Let the cheese melt, then add 1 oz of half and half to make a creamy cheese sauce.
Assembly Instructions
To make your chicken cheese steak, place the melted cheese mixture on a hoagie roll. Fill the roll with the chicken and vegetable mixture, making sure it’s evenly spread. For a crunchy and melty finish, you can place the sandwich under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.
Top your sandwich with 5 pieces of fresh cilantro leaves. Serve with 5 oz of crispy potato fries for a complete meal. Enjoy your homemade chicken cheese steak recipe or steak cheese toastie!
Ingredient | Amount |
---|---|
Canola Oil | 1 Tbsp |
Bell Peppers & Onion Mix | 2 Oz |
Fire Roasted Corn | 1 Oz |
Tyson Red Label® Fully Cooked Unbreaded Fajita Seasoned Chicken Breast Strips | 4 Oz |
White American Cheese | 2 slices |
Hoagie Roll | 1 |
Cilantro Leaves | 5 pieces |
Potato Fries | 5 Oz |
This chicken cheese steak recipe makes 1 serving. It has 25 grams of protein, 29 grams of carbs, 12 grams of fat, and 310 calories per sandwich.
Choosing the Right Bread and Cheese
Creating the perfect cheese steak sandwich or steak and cheese roll starts with the bread and cheese. You need a chewy, sturdy roll that can handle the filling without getting soggy or falling apart.
The best bread for a cheese steak sandwich is a fresh, soft hoagie roll. It should be crispy on the outside and fluffy inside. This balance is key to holding the meat and cheese without collapsing.
For cheese, Cooper sharp American is the classic choice for a Philly-style cheese steak. Its creamy melt and subtle flavor are perfect with the steak. But, white American, provolone, or mozzarella also work well. Make sure to slice or grate the cheese thinly for a complete melt.
To keep the bread dry, line the rolls with cheese before adding the filling. This creates a barrier that keeps the bread crisp, even with lots of steak and onions.
“The meat for Philly cheesesteaks should be sliced razor-thin for that melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.”
With the right bread and cheese, you’re on your way to a cheese steak sandwich or steak and cheese roll fit for Philadelphia.
Tips for Achieving Restaurant-Quality Results
To make a chicken philly cheesesteak like a pro at home, start with a cast iron skillet. It cooks the chicken evenly and caramelizes it beautifully. Make sure to cook the meat in batches to avoid overcrowding and get a crispy crust on each piece.
When melting the cheese, keep an eye on the broiler. It can go from perfect to burnt quickly. Try using different cheeses like American or mozzarella for extra flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Slicing the chicken too thick, resulting in a chewy texture
- Overcrowding the pan, which steams the meat instead of searing it
- Forgetting to toast the bread, leaving it soft and soggy
- Using low-quality or pre-shredded cheese that doesn’t melt properly
Professional Chef Secrets
For a low-carb version of the easy chicken cheesesteak, serve it on a fresh salad. This is great for those watching their carbs. Choose a sturdy roll that can handle the filling without falling apart.
“The key to a truly outstanding chicken philly cheesesteak is in the details. From the perfect sear on the meat to the melty, gooey cheese, every element must be executed with precision to capture the essence of this iconic Philadelphia dish.”
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
Keeping your chicken cheese steak recipe and chicken cheesesteak sandwich fresh is key. Follow these easy steps to keep your dish tasting great. This way, you can enjoy your chicken cheesesteak just like it was made yesterday.
Refrigerating the Filling
Store the cooked chicken and veggies in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 days. This makes it easy to prep ahead and assemble quickly when you’re ready to eat.
Reheating the Sandwiches
To reheat, wrap the sandwiches in foil and warm them in a 275°F oven for 10-15 minutes. This method keeps the bread soft and the filling warm.
Keeping Them Warm for Serving
For a party or potluck, wrap the sandwiches loosely in foil. Then, warm them in a 170°F oven. This keeps them at the perfect serving temperature without drying out.
By using these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your chicken cheese steak recipe and chicken cheesesteak sandwich for days. Enjoy every bite of your delicious creation!
Storage Method | Maximum Duration |
---|---|
Refrigerating the Filling | 3 days |
Freezing the Assembled Sandwiches | 3 months |
Nutritional Information and Health Benefits
One serving of the chicken cheese steak recipe is quite nutritious. It has about 545 calories, 35g of carbs, 45g of protein, and 28g of fat. This includes 12g of saturated fat. The sodium is 890mg, with 3g of fiber and 5g of sugar.
Compared to beef-based cheesesteaks, the chicken version is healthier. Chicken is leaner, offering important amino acids without too much saturated fat. This makes the chicken cheese steak better for your heart and cholesterol levels.
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 545 |
Carbohydrates | 35g |
Protein | 45g |
Total Fat | 28g |
Saturated Fat | 12g |
Cholesterol | 115mg |
Sodium | 890mg |
Fiber | 3g |
Sugar | 5g |
Choosing chicken over beef means less saturated fat and cholesterol. This recipe is perfect for those who love Philly flavor but want a healthier option. It’s a delicious and nutritious twist on the classic chicken cheese steak.
Conclusion
This easy chicken cheese steak recipe brings a taste of Philadelphia to your table in just 30 minutes. It’s a crowd-pleaser that you can make your own way. It’s great for a quick dinner or a casual get-together.
It’s a healthier take on the classic Philly cheesesteak. You get all the flavors you love without the extra calories. Follow our tips to make a sandwich that tastes like it came from a restaurant.
If you love Philly cheese steaks or want a leaner option, this recipe is for you. It’s a perfect mix of tender chicken, gooey cheese, and tasty toppings. Make this easy chicken cheese steak recipe at home and enjoy a taste of Philadelphia.