This Easy Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet Dinner is a fun and tasty meal! Juicy chicken, colorful bell peppers, and gooey cheese all mixed together in one pan make it a quick and easy treat for everyone.
Who knew dinner could be this simple? I love making it after a long day—just toss everything in the skillet and let it cook. Plus, the melty cheese makes it feel extra special! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here. They cook quickly and stay tender. If you prefer, you can use turkey for a leaner option or even rotisserie chicken to save time.
Bell Peppers: Red and green peppers add great color and flavor. Feel free to mix in yellow or orange peppers for sweetness, or use other veggies like mushrooms or zucchini if you have them on hand.
Onion: A medium onion brings depth of flavor. If you’re not a fan, you could skip it or use shallots for a milder taste. Green onions also add a nice flair if you prefer a fresh touch.
Cheese: Provolone is the classic choice, but mozzarella works great too! For a sharper taste, try aged cheddar or pepper jack for a bit of heat. Vegan cheese is a good alternative for dairy-free options.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Stays Juicy?
Cooking chicken perfectly can be tricky, but there are a few simple steps to help keep it juicy. First, make sure to cut the chicken into thin strips. This helps it cook quickly and evenly.
- Use medium-high heat to get a nice sear on the chicken.
- Don’t rush it! Stir occasionally to prevent burning but let it sit long enough for a good browning.
- Once cooked, remove it from the heat promptly to prevent drying out. Cover it while you cook the veggies to keep it warm.
Following these tips will help you achieve tender and juicy chicken every time! Enjoy your meal!
Easy Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil (divided)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese
- Optional: 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15-20 minutes to cook, so you’ll have a tasty dinner ready in about 30 minutes! Perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Chicken:
First, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced chicken to the skillet. Season it with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Cook the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the sliced onions and bell peppers. Sauté while stirring frequently until the vegetables are softened and have a nice caramelized look, which will take about 6-8 minutes. This delicious blend adds great flavor!
3. Combine and Season:
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix everything thoroughly. Take a moment to taste it and adjust the seasoning to your liking. If you want a kick, sprinkle in the crushed red pepper flakes at this point!
4. Melt the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the chicken and veggies in the skillet. Lower the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the cheese melt for about 2-3 minutes. Keep an eye on it so the cheese gets bubbly and gooey!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the cheese is melted, remove the skillet from heat. Serve the Chicken Cheesesteak hot! You can enjoy it on its own or with some hoagie rolls for a classic cheesesteak sandwich vibe. Pair it with your favorite sides for a complete meal!
Enjoy this colorful, cheesy, and flavorful chicken cheesesteak skillet dinner that comes together quickly and easily all in one pan!
FAQ for Easy Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet Dinner
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it completely before cooking. You can thaw it in the fridge overnight or submerge it in cold water in its packaging for a quicker method. Pat it dry before slicing to avoid excess moisture.
What Can I Use Instead of Bell Peppers?
Absolutely! If you don’t like bell peppers, feel free to substitute with mushrooms, zucchini, or even broccoli. These veggies will add their own unique flavors while still keeping the dish colorful and nutritious.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to create a bit of steam.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! You can easily make this dish vegetarian by substituting the chicken with plant-based proteins like tofu or tempeh. Also, add extra veggies like spinach or artichokes for added flavor and texture!