There is something absolutely irresistible about a freshly made Chicken Cheese Steak Sandwiches Recipe that brings together tender, flavorful chicken and gooey melted cheese all hugged by a perfectly toasted roll. This sandwich hits all the right notes: the savory spices, sweet bell peppers, and melty provolone create a comfort food experience that’s both satisfying and exciting. Whether it’s for a quick weeknight dinner or a special weekend treat, these sandwiches are guaranteed to become a new favorite in your recipe collection and leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chicken Cheese Steak Sandwiches Recipe comes together with simple yet crucial ingredients that make all the difference. Each component plays a role in building the perfect taste, texture, and color in every bite.
- 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, thinly sliced: Use whichever cut you prefer for tenderness and flavor that’s easy to cook quickly.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: The base for sautéing, adding a rich mouthfeel and helping to caramelize the chicken and veggies.
- 1 onion, thinly sliced: Adds sweetness and a bit of crunch, balancing the savoriness of the chicken.
- 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced: Brings vibrant color and a subtle sweetness that complements the spices.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the mixture with aromatic depth and warmth.
- 1 tsp paprika: Offers a slightly smoky undertone enhancing overall flavor complexity.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Essential for bringing out all the natural flavors without overpowering.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: Adds just enough heat for a gentle kick.
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano: Contributes a subtle herbaceous note reminiscent of classic sandwiches.
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme: Provides an earthy background flavor that rounds everything out.
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (optional): Gives an umami boost and a touch of savory depth, perfect if you love complexity.
- 4 hoagie rolls or sub rolls: Sturdy enough to hold the generous filling without becoming soggy.
- 4 slices provolone cheese (or American cheese): The gooey, melty element that ties the whole sandwich together.
- Optional toppings: sautéed mushrooms, pickled jalapeños, extra onions and bell peppers: Customize your sandwich with extra layers of flavor and texture.
How to Make Chicken Cheese Steak Sandwiches Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s shimmering, add the thinly sliced chicken pieces and cook them until they are fully cooked through and lightly golden, about 5 to 7 minutes. Don’t rush this step—letting the chicken develop a slight crust adds wonderful texture and flavor.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Next, toss in the sliced onions and bell peppers. Continue cooking for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the veggies soften but still hold onto a slight bite. This adds a lovely sweetness and freshness to your filling that complements the rich chicken perfectly.
Step 3: Add Aromatics and Spices
Stir in the minced garlic along with paprika, salt, black pepper, oregano, and thyme. Let it cook together for 1 to 2 minutes so the spices release their rich aromas and blend seamlessly into the mixture.
Step 4: Finish with Soy Sauce (Optional)
If you enjoy an extra punch of umami, add the tablespoon of soy sauce now. Mix well to ensure every bit of chicken and vegetable is coated with this delicious seasoning.
Step 5: Assemble the Sandwiches
If you want to elevate the texture, lightly toast the hoagie or sub rolls. Then, place a slice of provolone cheese on the bottom half of each roll. Pile on the warm chicken and veggie mixture right on top. This layering helps the cheese melt enticingly once heated again.
Step 6: Melt the Cheese
Put the assembled sandwiches under a broiler or in a toaster oven for 1 to 2 minutes, watching carefully until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This gooey layer is the ultimate comfort factor and seals in all those juicy flavors.
Step 7: Add Optional Toppings and Serve
Finally, add any optional toppings like sautéed mushrooms, pickled jalapeños, or extra onions and peppers for even more flavor and texture. Serve your Chicken Cheese Steak Sandwiches Recipe hot, and get ready to enjoy a wildly satisfying meal.
How to Serve Chicken Cheese Steak Sandwiches Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling fresh chopped parsley or a dash of crushed red pepper flakes on top can brighten up the flavors and add a subtle kick. Pickled jalapeños not only bring heat but also a tangy contrast that pairs beautifully with the savory sandwich filling.
Side Dishes
This sandwich loves company, so consider serving it with crispy French fries, a refreshing coleslaw, or even a crisp green salad tossed with a zesty vinaigrette. These sides add balance, with crunchy or fresh elements complementing the warm and cheesy sandwich.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, cut the sandwiches into smaller sliders for a party or gathering. You could also turn the filling into a stuffed quesadilla or layer it into a warm wrap for a handheld meal variation that still packs that original Chicken Cheese Steak Sandwiches Recipe flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store the chicken and vegetable mixture separately from the rolls in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This helps prevent the bread from getting soggy and keeps the flavors fresh for up to 3 days.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken mixture without the rolls by placing it in a freezer-safe container or bag. It will maintain good quality for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the chicken mixture gently in a skillet or microwave, then assemble the sandwich with fresh or toasted rolls and cheese. Broil briefly just to melt the cheese again before serving. This method keeps the texture and flavor as close to fresh as possible.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese in the Chicken Cheese Steak Sandwiches Recipe?
Absolutely! While provolone is classic, you can swap in American cheese, mozzarella, or even cheddar depending on your preference. Just choose a cheese that melts well to keep that gooey goodness.
Is it necessary to use soy sauce?
Not at all. The soy sauce adds umami depth, but if you prefer to keep it simple or avoid soy, you can leave it out. The spices and veggies still deliver plenty of flavor.
Can I make this sandwich vegetarian?
Yes! For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based protein like seitan or tofu. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure proper texture and flavor.
What kind of rolls work best for Chicken Cheese Steak Sandwiches Recipe?
Hoagie rolls or sub rolls with a soft inside but sturdy crust work best to hold all the filling without becoming soggy. You can also experiment with ciabatta or baguettes for a different twist.
How spicy is this recipe?
It’s mildly spiced thanks to the black pepper and paprika. If you like more heat, add pickled jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes as toppings to amp up the spice level.
Final Thoughts
Now that you’ve got the step-by-step on making these irresistible Chicken Cheese Steak Sandwiches Recipe, you’re well on your way to delighting your family or friends with a hearty, delicious meal. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and melted cheese nestled in a toasty roll is pure sandwich perfection. Go ahead, give this recipe a try—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
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Chicken Cheese Steak Sandwiches Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 sandwiches
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Chicken Cheese Steak Sandwiches are a delicious twist on the classic Philly cheesesteak, made with tender thinly sliced chicken, sautéed onions and bell peppers, and melted provolone cheese inside toasted hoagie rolls. Perfect for a hearty and flavorful meal, these sandwiches are quick to prepare and optionally enhanced with savory toppings like sautéed mushrooms and pickled jalapeños.
Ingredients
Chicken Mixture
- 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (optional)
Sandwich Assembly
- 4 hoagie rolls or sub rolls
- 4 slices provolone cheese (or American cheese)
- Optional toppings: sautéed mushrooms, pickled jalapeños, extra onions and bell peppers
Instructions
- Heat oil: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat to get the pan hot and ready for cooking.
- Cook chicken: Add the thinly sliced chicken to the skillet and cook until fully cooked through and slightly browned, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Sauté vegetables: Add the sliced onion and bell pepper to the skillet and cook for an additional 5 minutes until vegetables soften and begin to caramelize.
- Add seasoning: Stir in the minced garlic, paprika, salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and dried thyme, cooking for 1-2 minutes to release their flavors.
- Add soy sauce: If desired, add 1 tablespoon soy sauce and stir well to combine with the chicken and vegetable mixture.
- Toast rolls: Toast the hoagie rolls lightly either in a toaster or under a broiler to warm and crisp them slightly.
- Add cheese: Place a slice of provolone cheese on the bottom half of each toasted roll.
- Assemble sandwich: Pile the warm chicken and vegetable mixture on top of the cheese in each roll.
- Melt cheese: Broil or toast the assembled sandwiches for 1-2 minutes until the cheese melts and bubbles slightly.
- Add toppings: Top sandwiches with optional extras such as sautéed mushrooms, pickled jalapeños, or extra onions and bell peppers for added flavor.
- Serve hot: Serve the sandwiches immediately while hot and enjoy the melty, savory goodness.
Notes
- Use chicken thighs for juicier sandwiches or chicken breasts for leaner options.
- Soy sauce is optional but adds a nice umami flavor.
- For a spicier kick, add pickled jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- Provolone cheese melts beautifully, but American cheese can be used as a substitute.
- To save time, pre-slice vegetables or use frozen sliced peppers and onions.
