If you’re craving a sandwich that bursts with flavor, texture, and satisfying warmth, this Chicken Cheese Steak Sandwiches Recipe is pure magic. Tender slices of seasoned chicken mingle with sweet onions, vibrant bell peppers, and melted provolone cheese all hugged by a perfectly toasted hoagie roll. It’s like a comforting, hearty meal wrapped up in one irresistible bite. Whether you need a quick dinner or want to impress friends with a classic done right, this recipe will become your new go-to for that crave-worthy sandwich fix.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of fresh, everyday ingredients, you’ll build layers of flavor and texture that keep every bite exciting. Each component, from the juicy chicken to the aromatic herbs, plays an essential role in making these sandwiches unforgettable.
- 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, thinly sliced: The star of the sandwich, providing tender, juicy protein.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: For cooking the chicken and veggies to perfection with a subtle richness.
- 1 onion, thinly sliced: Adds sweetness and depth as it caramelizes gently.
- 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced: Brings color and a fresh, mild crunch.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Elevates the savory notes with its pungent aroma.
- 1 tsp paprika: Introduces a smoky warmth that harmonizes the flavors.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances and balances every ingredient.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: Offers a gentle hint of spice and complexity.
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano: Adds an earthy, herbaceous touch.
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme: Contributes subtle fragrant undertones.
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (optional): For a slight umami boost and depth.
- 4 hoagie rolls or sub rolls: The perfect vessel for holding all the delicious components together.
- 4 slices provolone cheese (or American cheese): Melts beautifully, making the sandwich gooey and indulgent.
- Optional toppings (sautéed mushrooms, pickled jalapeños, extra onions and bell peppers): Personalize your sandwich with added textures and flavors.
How to Make Chicken Cheese Steak Sandwiches Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the thinly sliced chicken breasts or thighs. Let the chicken cook undisturbed for a few minutes before stirring, so you get a nice sear. This step ensures your meat stays juicy and develops a subtly caramelized surface, locking in flavor. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until completely cooked through.
Step 2: Add Onion and Bell Pepper
Next, toss in the thinly sliced onion and bell pepper. These vegetables soften and sweeten as they cook, offering a tender yet slightly crisp texture that contrasts beautifully with the meat. Stir occasionally and cook for about 5 minutes to develop those lovely caramelized edges and vibrant colors that make the sandwich visually and texturally exciting.
Step 3: Season the Mixture
Now, it’s time for the flavours to shine. Stir in the minced garlic, paprika, salt, black pepper, oregano, and thyme. The garlic will bloom in the heat, releasing its aromatic power, while the herbs and paprika add layers of earthiness and warmth. Cook everything together for 1-2 minutes, just enough to marry the flavors.
Step 4: Incorporate Soy Sauce
If you love a little umami richness, splash in the soy sauce now. This optional step boosts the overall depth, harmonizing beautifully with the spices and vegetables. Stir well until the soy sauce is evenly distributed and the mixture looks glossy and inviting.
Step 5: Prepare the Rolls and Cheese
While your filling finishes, toast the hoagie rolls slightly if you like a crisp exterior for contrast. Then, lay a slice of provolone or American cheese on the bottom half of each roll. The cheese acts as a melty barrier and flavor enhancer when you pile on the warm chicken mixture.
Step 6: Assemble and Melt Cheese
Generously spoon the chicken and veggie filling over the cheese. To achieve that iconic gooey melt, pop the assembled sandwiches under the broiler or into a toaster oven for 1-2 minutes. Watch closely until the cheese bubbles and melts perfectly, enveloping every savory bite.
Step 7: Add Optional Toppings and Serve
Finally, personalize your Chicken Cheese Steak Sandwiches Recipe with optional toppings like sautéed mushrooms, pickled jalapeños, or extra sautéed onions and bell peppers. These finishing touches add exciting textures and flavor contrasts that keep your sandwich dynamic and unforgettable.
How to Serve Chicken Cheese Steak Sandwiches Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes make wonderful garnishes, bringing brightness and a touch of heat to balance the sandwich’s rich components. A drizzle of your favorite hot sauce or a spoonful of creamy horseradish sauce can also elevate every bite with an extra punch of flavor.
Side Dishes
Serve these sandwiches alongside crisp, lightly salted potato chips, a crunchy dill pickle, or a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette. These sides complement the hearty, savory notes perfectly and keep the meal satisfying without feeling too heavy.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try cutting the sandwiches into smaller sliders perfect for parties or gatherings. You can also serve the filling as a scoopable dip with toasted baguette slices if you want to share the essence of the sandwich without the bread. No matter how you present it, the flavors will shine through and impress everyone at the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover chicken cheese steak filling can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the rolls separate to avoid sogginess. When you’re ready to enjoy again, just reheat the filling and assemble fresh sandwiches for the best texture.
Freezing
The cooked chicken and vegetable mixture freezes well for up to 2 months. Freeze in portioned containers or freezer bags for convenience. Avoid freezing the rolls or cheese, as they don’t freeze and thaw as well. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
Warm your filling on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through, being careful not to dry out the meat. Assemble on rolls and re-melt the cheese under a broiler or in a toaster oven for that signature gooey texture. This quick method keeps your Chicken Cheese Steak Sandwiches Recipe tasting fresh and delicious even days later.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese besides provolone?
Absolutely! While provolone is classic for its mild, melty properties, you can swap in American cheese, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick. Choose a cheese that melts nicely to keep that gooey texture essential to the sandwich’s charm.
Is it better to use chicken breast or thighs?
Both work well here. Chicken breasts offer a leaner option and slice cleanly, while thighs bring extra juiciness and flavor due to their higher fat content. Choose based on your preference, or mix both for a balance of tenderness and flavor.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
You can! Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms and even add firm tofu or seitan for protein. Keep all the vegetables and seasonings the same for that vegetable-forward, savory experience reminiscent of the original sandwich.
What can I add to make the sandwich spicier?
Pickled jalapeños are a fantastic option, as are crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce. You can also swap regular paprika for smoked or spicy varieties to dial up the heat.
How do I keep the sandwich from getting soggy?
Toast the rolls lightly before assembling, and add the melted cheese directly onto the bread to create a moisture barrier. Also, avoid adding watery toppings until just before serving for best results.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Cheese Steak Sandwiches Recipe perfectly strikes the balance between ease and indulgence. It’s a reliable crowd-pleaser that’s both satisfying and customizable. Once you give it a try, you’ll find yourself turning to it time and again whenever that comforting, flavor-packed sandwich craving hits. So go ahead, make it your own, and enjoy every melty, savory bite!
Print
Chicken Cheese Steak Sandwiches Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delicious and easy-to-make Chicken Cheese Steak Sandwiches featuring tender sautéed chicken, colorful bell peppers, and onions, seasoned with aromatic herbs and spices, topped with melty provolone cheese and served on toasted hoagie rolls. Perfect for a hearty lunch or dinner in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken and Vegetables
- 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
Seasonings
- 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 the olive oil: Warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat to prepare for cooking the chicken.
- Cook the chicken: Add the thinly sliced chicken breast or thighs to the skillet and cook until fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Cook vegetables: Add the sliced onion and bell pepper to the skillet and cook for an additional 5 minutes until they become tender and slightly caramelized.
- Add seasonings and garlic: Stir in the minced garlic, paprika, salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and dried thyme. Cook the mixture for 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the garlic to become fragrant.
- Add soy sauce: If using, pour in the soy sauce and stir well to incorporate it evenly into the chicken and vegetable mixture.
- Toast the rolls: Toast the hoagie or sub rolls lightly if desired, to enhance texture and flavor.
- Assemble the sandwich: Place a slice of provolone cheese on the bottom half of each toasted roll.
- Add the chicken mixture: Spoon the hot chicken, onion, and bell pepper mixture on top of the cheese in each roll.
- Melt the cheese: Broil or toast the assembled sandwich for 1-2 minutes until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly.
- Add optional toppings: Enhance your sandwich with sautéed mushrooms, pickled jalapeños, or extra onions and bell peppers as desired.
- Serve: Serve the Chicken Cheese Steak Sandwiches hot for the ultimate satisfying meal.
Notes
- Using chicken thighs will provide a juicier and more flavorful sandwich than chicken breast.
- Soy sauce adds a subtle umami depth but can be omitted for a milder taste.
- Feel free to customize the sandwich with your favorite toppings such as mushrooms or spicy pickled jalapeños.
- Toasting the rolls adds crunch and prevents sogginess from the filling.
- Leftover sandwiches can be wrapped and refrigerated, then reheated in a skillet or oven for best results.
