This Easy Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet Dinner is a tasty twist on the classic! It features juicy chicken, colorful peppers, and melted cheese all in one pan. Perfect for busy nights!
I love how this dish comes together in a flash—just chop, cook, and serve! Plus, it’s a hit with the whole family. Who doesn’t love cheesy goodness? 🧀😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you prefer, you can use turkey or cooked rotisserie chicken to save time. Just remember to adjust the cooking time if you’re using pre-cooked meat.
Paprika: Smoked paprika adds a nice depth of flavor. If you don’t have it, try a pinch of cayenne or chili powder for some heat. Just a little goes a long way!
Bell Peppers: Any color of bell pepper works here. Red, green, or yellow all add sweetness. If you want a twist, try using poblano peppers for a smoky flavor or swap in zucchini for a low-carb option.
Cheese: While mozzarella is a classic choice, provolone is more traditional for cheesesteaks. For something different, sprinkle in some cheddar for extra flavor. Just make sure it melts well!
How Do I Get the Chicken Cooked Just Right?
Cooking chicken properly ensures it’s tender and juicy. Here are my tips:
- Slice chicken thinly for quick and even cooking. It should only take about 5-7 minutes.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. If it’s too crowded, the chicken may not brown properly.
- Keep the heat at medium-high to get a nice sear without drying it out. A little browning adds great flavor!
Checking for doneness is key. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Trust your thermometer!
Easy Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or provolone)
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika or hot sauce for extra flavor
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fantastic dinner comes together in about 20 minutes! You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the veggies and chicken, and around another 10 minutes cooking everything in the skillet. Quick and easy for a weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sautéing the Chicken:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the sliced chicken. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice brown color. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Cooking the Veggies:
In the same skillet, toss in the sliced onions and bell peppers. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized. This will add great flavor to your dish!
3. Adding Garlic and Combining:
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute until it becomes fragrant. Now, return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the veggies. Stir everything together and let it cook for 1-2 minutes to blend those delicious flavors.
4. Melting the Cheese:
Next, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the chicken and vegetable mixture. To get that cheese nice and gooey, cover the skillet with a lid or some foil and cook for 2-3 minutes.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the cheese is melted, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve your Chicken Cheesesteak hot! It’s delicious on its own or can be enjoyed with toasted sandwich rolls or over rice for a more filling meal.
Enjoy your delicious and easy Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet Dinner!
FAQ about Easy Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet Dinner
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Using leftover cooked chicken is a great time-saver. Just ensure to add it in step 5, heating until warmed through, and reduce the cooking time to 2-3 minutes to avoid drying it out.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Vegetables?
No problem! You can use frozen bell peppers and onions. Just add them to the skillet while cooking the chicken and sauté for a bit longer, until they’re heated through, about 7-8 minutes.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture if needed.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Yes! To add some heat, include chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce when you return the chicken to the skillet. Adjust to your spice preference for the perfect kick!
